In combat, one of the most prevalent techniques of combating the enemy is to continuously improve your position. Whether it is a simple fighting position or a tactical strongpoint in a COIN environment. Countless times, we are convinced that our position is complete and there are no more needs for improvement. Then someone comes along, whether it’s a senior NCO, or a visiting General Officer VIP, there are always contributions as to how to improve one’s position. Sometimes, the enemy finds a way to show us how to increase the defense of our positions.
This theory does not only apply to our physical security, but to our environment and our personnel as leaders. The idea that taking over a new responsibility as an officer, and there aren’t things that need to be improved, can quickly become a slippery slope. The difference in this is determining the changes in a rational manner. It is not the decisions a leader makes or the amount of time after taking over a position as long as the intentions are clear. The fact that James took the time to receive a changeover brief from his PSG and SLs in order to determine the status of the element is a clear representation of his concern about the safety of him and his men, and also being effective against the enemy.
On a very personal note, some of the most important characteristics of a leader in the U.S. Army are those of great moral and ethical value. It takes a natural leader with developmental capabilities to lead with confidence and stay resilient.