Interrogation: World War II, Vietnam, And Iraq

“This fascinating volume adds historical and practical context going back to U.S. policy and practice in interrogations during World War II, the Vietnam conflict, and the most recent U.S. war in Iraq.  The book contributes to the high-profile public dialogue on how U.S. military and civilian agencies can best obtain information from prisoners of war and other categories of legal and illegal combatants without compromising the principles upon which the nation was founded. National Defense Intelligence College Professor John Wahlquist headed the research project and introduces the book.  James Stone researched U.S. efforts during World War II to develop language and interrogation capacities to deal with the Japanese. He found that military leaders, often working with civilian counterparts, created and implemented successful strategies, building on cultural and linguistic skills that substantially aided the war effort for the U.S. and its Allies. David Shoemaker studied the experiences of three successful interrogators during the Vietnam War. Shoemaker suggests that policymakers and practitioners have much to learn from professionals who served effectively for years in the field. Shoemaker highlights the importance of a deep understanding of the language, psychology, and culture of adversaries and potential allies in other countries. Nicholas Dotti examined recent policy and practice with regard to tactical and field interrogations, especially with regard to the efforts of Special Forces soldiers in Iraq. He concludes that the “letter” of current doctrine contradicts its “intent.” Dotti offers recommendations that he believes are both consistent with the intent of military doctrine and likely to increase the effectiveness of U.S. interrogation practices in the field.  William Spracher helped organize and edit the book.”