Petraeus Speaks at USC
Former director of the Central Intelligence Agency David Petraeus will make his first public speech since his resignation at an annual dinner honoring the University of Southern California's R.O.T.C. program.
His speech was made available in advance to the New York Times and he is expected to speak not only about his changed image, but also his responsibility and regret surrounding his actions.
He will make a speech at the beginning of the event discussing his "personal journey," including his extramarital affair with biographer Paula Broadwell. A scandal which ultimately led to his resignation.
The event will be held at 9 p.m. at the Westin Bonaventure Hotel in downtown Los Angeles.
More than 600 people are expected to attend the event, hosted by Board of Trustees Chairman Edward P. Roski Jr. and USC President C. L. Max Nikias.
"In our post 9/11 world, Gen. Petraeus' influence on our military is unmatched, and his contributions to the CIA are far-reaching," Nikias said in a statement. "Gen. Petraeus completely reshaped American military tactics, and promoted our nation's counterinsurgency strategy."
Petraeus plans to use this opportunity to redirect his career.
A major part of his speech will emphasize the importance of caring for families that have lost military personnel, supporting the wounded and honoring those that have served their country.
While at USC, Petraeus will visit the Price School of Public Policy, which hosts the R.O.T.C. program.
"We have always taken tremendous pride in our men and women who are part of the United States military," Nikias said. "They arrive at USC with a broad view of the world and its complexities, they want an education and skills, and they want to succeed in life."
Petraeus also plans to visit the USC School of Social Work, which won federal funding in 2008 to create a master's program that trains social workers to address the needs of returning veterans.
Tuesday's speech was scheduled much before Petraeus resigned in November of 2012.
