Cadet Emma Cao on “Inside JAO: Seven Lessons from a Summer in the Pentagon”

Today’s post is by a new Lawfire^® contributor, Cadet Emma Cao from the University of North Carolina’s Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) Detachment 590. 

When Emma told me about her summer internship, it struck me as unusual for an undergraduate to serve in a Judge Advocate General (JAG) office at any level, but especially at the Pentagon, so I asked her to draft a blogpost for Lawfire^®.  I think you’ll find her essay truly fascinating and amazingly insightful.  Consider this excerpt:

What stood out most in these sessions was the candor of the conversations. Hearing directly from leaders at this level, often in an unfiltered and personal manner, humanized the experience of leadership.

Through these discussions, I gained a deeper appreciation of the sacrifices made on our behalf to serve the nation: the difficulty of maintaining relationships, the strain on families, and the constant moves that come with military life.

Leadership is about making the people in our lives feel seen, supported, and valued. Being intentional with our time, showing our teams they matter beyond performance, and fostering a culture of care and respect are what sustain strong leaders and cohesive units.

A common theme in these conversations was clear: status should never be the goal. True advancement comes not from chasing rank, but from consistently serving others.

I think there are many leaders, both inside and outside the military, who are far more senior than Cadet Cao, who nevertheless could learn a great deal from that passage.  (And don’t miss her discussion of “Lesson #6”.) 

Some context: Emma got this opportunity through her selection for the Arnold Air Society’s (AAS) Woodward Pentagon Internship, which placed 18 cadets from institutions across the country with hosts throughout the Pentagon. (This wonderful program is funded by the Air & Space Forces Association.)

After reading this essay, I think you’ll agree that the internship was a terrific experience for Emma, and she certainly took full advantage of the opportunity.  I see nothing but blue skies ahead for this obviously very thoughtful officer-to-be.   

We should all be grateful that there are super-talented young people like Emma wanting to serve their country in uniform. Her essay certainly illustrates why public service in the armed forces can be so special and rewarding for those who “seize the day.”

Inside JAO: Seven Lessons from a Summer in the Pentagon

by Emma Cao

What is the JAG Corps?

AF JAG Corps Mission: “Provide the Department of the Air Force, commanders, and personnel with professional, full-spectrum legal support, at the speed of relevance, for mission success in joint and coalition operations.”

The AF JAG Corp is divided into three major directorates: Operations and International Law (JAO), Civil Law and Litigation (JAC), and Military Justice and Discipline (JAJ). Each has a broad portfolio; however, for the purpose of this post, I will focus on JAO, which is divided into five specialized branches: Aviation and Admiralty Torts (JAOA), Cyberspace and Information Law (JAOC), Environmental Law and Litigation (JAOE), Air and International Law (JAOI), and Space Law (JAOS).

Unlike civilian attorneys who typically hold narrow specializations, JAG officers rotate through multiple areas during their careers. This generalist structure ensures adaptability and continuous growth, while providing exposure to a wide range of challenges that cut across disciplines.

The Pentagon

The Pentagon is different from other military installations because, unlike most, it is not designed to train recruits, house troops, or operate equipment. Instead, it is the headquarters of the United States Department of Defense (DoD).*  While most bases serve specific operational roles, the Pentagon functions as the central administrative and command hub for the entire U.S. military. 

For someone interning in the JAG Corps, this meant seeing how law is woven into the highest levels of decision-making, shaping not just units or missions, but the direction of the DoD as a whole.

The Pentagon, as the world’s second-largest office building, is massive in scale. More than 25,000 military and civilian personnel work inside, navigating 17.5 miles of corridors that connect its offices. In many ways, it operates like a five-ringed city, self-sustaining with a gym, food courts, a clinic, clothing stores, and even a post office.

The personnel profile is also strikingly different. On a typical base, you might work alongside airmen, NCOs, and a handful of field-grade officers. In the Pentagon, majors are common, colonels are a dime a dozen, and you’re likely to pass at least one general in the hallway. 

Inside JAO: Lessons on Leadership, Curiosity, and Growth

On my first day, stepping into the Pentagon felt like being dropped off at college as a freshman all over again – both exciting and overwhelming.

The path from the parking lot was crowded with civilians and uniformed service members moving with purpose, and as I sat through in-processing, I couldn’t help but feel a mix of awe and anticipation. I was entering an environment steeped in history and responsibility, surrounded by people whose confidence and sharpness made it clear that I had much to learn.

Upon being introduced to the JAO office and touring the Pentagon, my most immediate impression was how welcoming everyone seemed, as every interaction showed a willingness to provide insights and share experiences. Wearing a cadet rank certainly drew attention, and more than once I was stopped in the hall to explain my purpose there.

One of the most striking experiences of my summer was when a General paused to speak with me; as he walked away, I noticed he carried a large binder labeled only “Friday.” It was a small reminder that even the busiest leaders still take the time to connect with their people.

My interactions with and the welcoming nature of everyone working at the Pentagon led me to Lesson #1: Network, Make Connections, and Learn. In the Air Force, members are not only committed to the mission but also to the people who make it possible: across every role and rank, they are eager to teach and to invest in the future of those who will follow.

By the second week, I was joined in JAO by C/Harris from the Air Force Academy, and together we built a steady rhythm navigating the challenges of both the Pentagon and the office.

Consequently, Lesson #2: Ask Questions became apparent early on, as the best way to find our footing—whether in the maze of hallways or in the middle of an unfamiliar assignment—was simply to ask.

During the Summer, I rotated between JAOI, JAOS, and JAOC, where I was entrusted with responsibilities that pushed me outside my comfort zone.

The work included reviewing legislation on National Defense Areas, unmanned aerial systems, and international agreements, as well as editing policy drafts, ground accident investigation board reports, and weapons’ reviews.

Although I didn’t always know the right answer, through asking for clarification, I gained not only task guidance but also connected with people who served as mentors to me.

What made the work meaningful wasn’t just the projects themselves but the way every civilian, officer, and enlisted member welcomed curiosity, took time to explain their roles, and turned each question into an opportunity to learn.

Those conversations highlighted Lesson #3: There Is No One Path to Success In The Air Force. Many JAGs shared stories of prior careers or experiences before joining the Corps, illustrating how much the service values diverse backgrounds.

One afternoon in the food court, a Lieutenant Colonel from contracting struck up a conversation and mentioned his own interest in joining JAG. It was a reminder that it’s never too late to pursue your aspirations, and that the Air Force is strengthened by those who bring new perspectives and experiences to the table.   

Finally, Lesson #4: Take Initiative. Many opportunities opened when I chose to step forward. By showing interest, I was able to attend a general court-martial on domestic violence, tour the JAOE and JAOA divisions at Joint Base Andrews, sit in on working groups, and observe a hearing for the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense. Ultimately, the opportunities you receive are the ones you create for yourself.

Lessons from Senior Leadership Discussions

During the internship, both AAS and the JAG office arranged opportunities to engage with senior military leaders. These included General B. Chance Saltzman (Chief of Space Operations), General (Ret.) Norton A. Schwartz (19th Chief of Staff of the Air Force), General (Ret.) John W. Raymond (first Chief of Space Operations), Lieutenant General Scott L. Pleus (Director of Staff), Lieutenant General (Ret.) Burt M. Field (President of the Air & Space Forces Association), Major General Rebecca R. Vernon (Deputy Judge Advocate General), and Mr. Edwin H. Oshiba (Director of Competitive Activities).

What stood out most in these sessions was the candor of the conversations. Hearing directly from leaders at this level, often in an unfiltered and personal manner, humanized the experience of leadership.

Through these discussions, I gained a deeper appreciation of the sacrifices made on our behalf to serve the nation: the difficulty of maintaining relationships, the strain on families, and the constant moves that come with military life.

Leadership is about making the people in our lives feel seen, supported, and valued. Being intentional with our time, showing our teams they matter beyond performance, and fostering a culture of care and respect are what sustain strong leaders and cohesive units.

A common theme in these conversations was clear: status should never be the goal. True advancement comes not from chasing rank, but from consistently serving others.

Lastly, it is important to remember that while military members operate in an environment shaped by politics, shifting public opinion, and national uncertainty, they must never lose sight of their duty to remain above the fray.

This is Lesson #5: To Understand The Political Environment But Remain Apolitical Ourselves. As military leaders, we must be aware of the broader pressures around us while ensuring our actions remain rooted in integrity, service, and an unwavering commitment to the mission and our people.  

AAS Intern Cohort

I would be remiss if I didn’t take a moment to recognize the AAS intern cohort I had the privilege of spending the summer with. If my time in the JAO office gave me purpose inside the Pentagon, then it was my fellow interns who made the experience truly memorable outside of it. Working alongside AFROTC’s best and brightest pushed me to grow in new ways.

Each intern carried their own story–their “Why Air Force”–and hearing those motivations was as inspiring as it was humbling. Our conversations broadened my perspective of the Air Force and deepened my respect for the individuals who, together, shape its character and culture.

What set this group apart wasn’t just aptitude, but the joy we found in the experience. From Pentagon lunches to celebrating birthdays to exploring D.C., we learned Lesson #6: Have Fun. Work hard, but remember to build your life outside of work as well.

The cohort showed me that success in the Air Force isn’t only about hours at a desk or the weight of responsibility, it’s also about building friendships, laughing together, and finding moments of lightness in demanding environments.

Those shared experiences reminded me that while the work matters, it is the people you share them with that make the journey unforgettable.

One of my favorite memories is when C/Harris and I became known for our coffee runs to Panera, a small office joke that followed us all summer. At the end of the internship, we handed out stickers that read, “I worked with the two best interns in AF/JA! Ask me about it!” It was a playful way to thank the team, but it also reflected the welcoming environment we were fortunate to be part of, one where dedication was matched by humor and camaraderie. 

Conclusion

Lesson #7: Show Appreciation feels like the right way to close. Looking back on this summer, I am deeply grateful to those who made the experience possible. To AAS, thank you for selecting such a remarkable cohort and creating a program that was both challenging and rewarding.

To the JAO office, thank you for welcoming me into your team, trusting me with meaningful responsibilities, and taking the time to mentor and invest in me.

And to my fellow interns, thank you for your friendship and inspiration; you reminded me daily of the caliber of leaders I hope to serve alongside in the years ahead.

The Air Force is, at its heart, a community, one made up of individuals who come from different backgrounds, pursue different specialties, and join for different reasons, but who are united by a shared commitment to serve our nation.

Across this organization, culture, motivation, and growth are cultivated through the examples set by its leaders– a realization that prompted me to reflect on the kind of officer I aspire to be.

In the end, life in the Pentagon reinforced that service is both a sacrifice and a privilege. To wear the uniform is to uphold the Constitution, defend the nation’s interests in an increasingly competitive and contested environment, and, most importantly, to care for the people who make the mission possible. That is a responsibility I am eager to embrace as I continue my journey.

 About the Author

Emma Cao is from Raleigh, North Carolina, and is a senior at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, majoring in political science. She is a cadet in Air Force (AF) ROTC at Detachment 590 and is on track to commission as a Second Lieutenant in May 2026. Her assigned Air Force Specialty Career (AFSC) is Intelligence, and her long-term goal is to serve as a Judge Advocate General (JAG) officer. To pursue that path, she plans to apply for an educational delay and law school later this year.

Emma is an active member of Arnold Air Society (AAS), an organization dedicated to community service, professional development, and education about our national defense. In Summer 2025, she was selected for the AAS Woodward Pentagon Internship, which placed 18 cadets with hosts throughout the Pentagon. She worked with the Judge Advocate (JA) in the Operations and International Law Division (JAO). This post reflects on that experience through insights into her responsibilities, the lessons she learned, and how those moments connected to the larger culture of the Air Force.

* (Note: at the time Emma drafted her essay, the “Department of War” moniker had not yet been adopted by the U.S. government.)

Disclaimers: 

The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official views or position of the Department of the Air Force, United States Department of Defense/War (DoD/DoW), or the U.S. Government. 

The views expressed by guest authors do not necessarily reflect my views, those of the Center on Law, Ethics and National Security, or Duke University. See also here. 

Remember what we like to say on Lawfire^®: gather the facts, examine the law, evaluate the arguments – and then decide for yourself!