What is the purpose of an After Action Review (AAR) after an exercise or operation?

• A. To assign blame for deficiencies.
• B. To capture lessons learned, identify gaps, and implement improvements.
• C. To certify personnel for deployment.
• D. To publish results to external stakeholders.

Answer: (B)

An After Action Review is a learning-focused debrief that follows an exercise or operation. Its purpose is to capture lessons learned, identify gaps, and implement improvements so future performances are better. It analyzes what happened, why it happened, and how to adjust plans, procedures, and training, with clear owners assigned to corrective actions to ensure changes are put in place. This process emphasizes learning and continual improvement rather than punishment. It’s not about assigning blame, certifying personnel, or publishing results to external stakeholders, which are not the primary aims of an AAR.