GW Law’s National Security, Cybersecurity, and Foreign Relations Law Program and the Military Law Society (MLS) co-hosted the annual Judge Advocate General’s Corps (JAG) recruiter panel earlier this month.
This year’s panel included accomplished JAGs from each military branch, including Army Major Curtis Cranston, Navy Lieutenant (junior grade); Madison Hinkley, JD ‘25, Navy Lieutenant (junior grade); Christina Lano, JD ‘25, Marine Corps Major Chelsea Lucas; Air Force Lieutenant Colonel Lindsey Callahan, JD ‘09; and Coast Guard Commander Daniel Halsig.
The event provided an opportunity for GW Law students interested in serving in the JAG Corps to have their questions answered and learn more about each Service’s distinctive characteristics.
MLS president Xavier Campos led the discussion, asking the panelists about topics ranging from why they chose the JAG Corps and physical fitness requirements, to employment opportunities and programs for law students and lawyers. The panelists also provided insight into each branch’s mission and culture, career paths during a JAG’s first tour, and the specific legal areas in which JAG officers practice.
The panelists’ responses shared several key themes. Regardless of branch, every panelist emphasized the breadth of a JAG Officers’ legal practice, which can include everything from family and administrative law, to national security law and military justice. Panelists also emphasized the camaraderie among fellow officers and the importance of the people who make up each branch’s legal office. They also highlighted the different opportunities offered by each Service and pointed to the “dual profession” of serving as both a lawyer and a military officer.
After the formal portion of the panel, student attendees had the opportunity to meet with the JAGs and ask questions informally. This successful event reflected the commitment of GW Law’s National Security, Cybersecurity, & Foreign Relations Law Program to supporting students with an interest in all facets of national security law, including military law.
