The key is to re-read your existing regulations and skip a paragraph or two down.  There is usually a NG paragraph there.  Key to learning is to dive in and talk to a SME ask for the AR they’re quoting and read it for yourself.

As an M-day commander I rely on my full time support staff to help.

 
LT McDonough’s actions were not contrary to moving slowly in a new leadership position. He positioned himself to watch squads operate while simultaneously maximizing his ability to command and control. The tactics of the platoon favored him to feel out his subordinates’ strengths and weaknesses, learn the local terrain, and master himself in the…[Read more]

Similar to COL McDonough, my first platoon sergeant was a small unit instructor before becoming a PSG. His description of his PSG as being wary and weary matches my own senior NCO, when I took charge of a tank platoon. The only difference being, my PSG was a Armor BOLC instructor instead of an RI. I do not know the extent that war affected him, he…[Read more]

Tiara,

Thank you so much for mentioning your vision and philosophy for command.  I really liked your emphasis on volunteering outside of work.  That is awesome.  Are there any key components of your vision and philosophy that rang especially true or applicable in regards to leadership?  You mentioned caring, and creating opportunities; how did…[Read more]

Brock, more years than I am willing to admit to ago, there was a saying painted on my DFAC’s wall at basic: training is everything and everything is training. As a leader I invest time in understanding what training requirements are and how can I incorporate it into the daily routine. For example many of the medic tables can serve as AWT task…[Read more]

I’m curious – how do people use these resources in the execution of their TM responsibilities in their organization?

Do you take notes on your Soldiers after having a “personal relationship” conversation with them? Do you pass around “TM books” or hold a “LPD book club”? Do you talk about articles discussed in “professional affiliations”…[Read more]

Ah “When everything is a priority, nothing is…” Both the most obvious thing we battle as leaders, as well as the most prevalent.

I agree. There is MORE that goes into it, however we have an issue within the Reserve Compo, and that issue is the simple lack of time. I have seen instances when a SPC learned something at a course, and because there…[Read more]

Honestly, it’s taken me 19 years in the Guard to understand it, and I’m learning something new everyday.

The additional sticking point with “the Guard,” is that there are also 54 different versions of how to do the same thing. Some smaller states have less red-tape; some states have more JAG involvement then is really needed; some states just do…[Read more]

Cale,

Awesome! Congrats on the command, and thank you so much for all of your contributions and leadership. I’m sorry for the delay in getting back to you. I will send you a message soon so that we can talk over the phone or via e-mail if that is okay? You are welcome, as you have already so many times, to post your experiences, and I…[Read more]