Something I have not seen mentioned yet (from myself included) is battle rhythm.  For sure get that from the RIP, predecessor, or NCOIC. While you get your feet under you, you can at the very least nail the easy stuff and get “brownie points” for taking care of the meetings and facetime that you reasonably should be nailing.

I also saw NTC…[Read more]

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]

I am experiencing this as an outsider.  I just received a new LT fresh from ROTC.  As I mentor the LT on being an officer I think the key opportunity is in preparing your attitude.  As a Candidate or Cadet you spent all your time learning and being graded.  That’s not as true for being an officer.  Yes, eyes are on you and yes you are compe…[Read more]

I have to say that as a brand new LT I wanted to do nothing more than just be an MS officer doing MSy officery things.  However a deployment where I was forced to work another staff role made me a much better officer.  Cross training is crucial to helping a young officer learn valuable skills and develop their talent.  I still love being MS and Do…[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]

Paul,

I’ve just taken command of my second company and I would love to help share ideas and experiences.  I had some staff time between commands which helped me to really focus on what I did well and what I must improve this time around.