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After Action Reports

Professional Military EducationBasic NCO Course

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After Action Reports

• A retrospective analysis on critical actions previously undertaken

• Part of Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program (HSEEP)

• May be formal or informal

• May be part of an After Action Review

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DHS Exercise Cycle

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After Action Reports

• Evaluates performance

• Documents effectiveness and efficiency of actions taken

• Analyzes critical procedures and policies

• Recommends improvements

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After Action Reports

Formats:

• One page or several pages

• Simple written narrative form or memo

• Structured VDF format

• Formal HSEEP standardized form

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After Action Reports

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After Action Reports

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After Action Reports

VDF Structure:

• Overview or mission

• Objective

• Execution or Synopsis of Events

• Analysis (what went well and what didn’t)

• Recommendations

• Contact information

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After Action Reports

Critical Considerations:

• Objectivity: actual responses / outcomes

• Effectiveness of policies and procedures

• Areas of strengths to maintain

• Candid areas for improvement

• Recommendations for improvement

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After Action Reports

Plain Language:

• Use everyday words rather than jargon

• Explain ALL abbreviations at first use

• Use present tense verbs with active voice

• Avoid modifiers (e.g., “totally” unrealistic)

• Avoid doublets (e.g., “null and void”)

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After Action Reports

Assignment:

• Write AAR for the last drill attended

• Use MS Office

• Due by next class

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After Action Reports

Additional Resources:

• Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program (HSEEP) After Action Report template

• TC 25-20 A Leader’s Guide to After Action Reviews

• U.S. Army: Plain Language Writing Tool Kit

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Questions?

After Action Reports