Kenny,

This is one of the best questions I have seen on this forum by a cadet. Brock hit it right on the head. Lead them, do not try to befriend them. You will develop personal relationships in time but even still, there always needs to be a layer of professionalism with personal relationships with your troops. If you trust your subordinates and empower them as NCOs, your NCOs will respect and take of you when the time comes. Don’t worry about knowing when to “down-shift”, it will happen naturally. If you are always on mission with your guys these moments will appear.

As a platoon leader develop your leadership philosophy and make changes it to it, so that when you become a Company Commander you have a solid product that is proven.

Good luck Kenny and I hope that you enjoy your PL time! Also, keep asking questions and keep growing!

v/r

Joe