Has your military leadership training helped you or hurt you?

<p>SFC Hester:</p><p><br></p><p>I was raised my Vietnam Veterans, and started enlisted in 1984, I was taught never trust your Officers.</p><p><br></p><p>I had to rewire my thinking when I crossed over Warrant Officer to Chaplain.</p><p><br></p><p>I was taught to take a stand and regardless do not give up your position.</p><p><br></p><p>In my thirty years of serving I have taken a stand and regardless of the storms of life I will not leave my post.</p><p><br></p><p>Adversity has shaped me and I am so thankful for those that have poured in me. I came up on big shoulders, and great Leaders honor those that have paved the way.</p>

I would only say that I have only benefited from it. I have only became a better leader. I can say at different levels of military education I have learned from different aspects. You really can't compare the NCO system to the O side of education. I can say my world changed when I became commissioned. The real question is if civilian companies understand the value of the education we have received. 

It has absolutely helped me.  I'm not talking about the classes at Officer Basic Course or Command & General Staff College - I'm referring to the real life experiences I encountered simply because I was in a position of authority and responsibility while in the Army.  I am indebted to the military for the opportunities afforded to me to learn (by mistakes as well) and become a better leader.