Philip thank you for comment. You mention “counseling your NCOs and working much harder on CSDP.”

Prior to taking command, what would you recommend future CDRs do in regards to these tasks? Do you believe these take priority over other preparation tasks? Obviously time being the most important factor.

You bring up a great point. I agree with th…[Read more]

@brock.j.young – I think you bring up great points and lessons learned for future commanders to reflect upon!

1. I like how you were a sponge collecting all information prior to assuming command. I think your reflection prior to assuming command was a great way to frame your approach.

2. “My Leadership Philosophy became the foundation of my comm…[Read more]

Team – great post and follow-up comments! I agree that it takes initiative to chart the next step. A former officer I worked with asked me the same question and I mentioned the following:

1. Define the “next step.” Depending on your career timeline, what assignment does the Army recommend?  Does this fit your priorities in regards to your pe…[Read more]

Hi Dallas- congrats on your selection to command. I know some of your struggles of being asked to do more with less, or in your case, do more without proper equipment.

I agree with the previous post. There are two lines of effort (short and long) that you must pursue concurrently. I would add that you must also educate others about the unique c…[Read more]

Kenny,

This is a great question and I will say IT DEPENDS. The previous posts touch on the principles and basics. However, I would argue that timing and implementing the discussed principles depends on your situation. Like Brock said, “you’ll have to find out what works for you and your PLT.” I’ll expand by mentioning the following:

Ask…[Read more]

Let’s use 2014-2018 as an example…I am a senior director of an 800+ member private firm, relatively well compensated, and have my own business line as well as being the project management office. My firm relies on me for new business as well as my managing of the teams we assemble for programs. My firm bills for my time, so any period for…[Read more]

I agree with all the above posts that provide great insight. I’d like to expound on some from an HHC CDR perspective.

1. Engage in continuous learning. Whether day 1 or day 365, ensure you have a mechanism to constantly assess yourself and the S6 team. You’ll receive direct feedback from the XO and BN CDR but you can also seek feedback from the…[Read more]

I read Pete’s article and have had some time to think about it. I have seen the loyalty to the boss get in the way of what loyalty is supposed to be here in the National Guard for years, and thought it a function of the close ties we have and the closed loop system of promotions and assignments that exist in a small state, but now that I am…[Read more]

Hello Eric,

You pose a great question. Transitions are tough, especially in your situation with the lack of battle handoff. I agree with Mark that you have to establish a knowledge baseline and learn effectively.

Expanding on Mark’s PIR comment, what exercises and/or deployments are on the short-range/long-range training calendar? What other…[Read more]