Historical norms governing U.S. civil-military relations are being tested by rapid technological advancements, partisan polarization, and the extended use of force to accomplish a range of foreign and domestic policy objectives. Panelists will unpack the constitutional foundations of this relationship, examine historical and modern case studies where objective military advice and civilian oversight have meshed effectively and where they have clashed, and discuss actionable frameworks for fostering mutual trust. Ultimately, this conversation will illuminate how maintaining robust civilian control while leveraging non-partisan military expertise remains essential for both democratic accountability and effective national defense.