As an NCO, and having been in for twelve years, I see the military changing in a way that I don't like. All my fellow NCO's and SNCO's have noticed the way our military is having to bend to everyone's specific issues. Compassion, sensitive to everyones feelings, cant say certain things because someone might be offended. When I first came in, we were harassed relentlessly, but It built respect and discipline among the enlisted. We respected our NCO's and talked to them with as few words as possible, while trying our hardest not to piss them off. Now, its the complete opposite. I passed an E-3 the other day, and he looks at me and says "tsup man". I tactfully lost my shit and put him against the wall, without laying hands on him, which I was taught to do from my NCO's when I was a dipshit. I was reprimanded for it and was told I have to be nicer and not so short with my troops, (from a MSGT) Seriously?! What happened to our military? I'm ashamed to wear my uniform sometimes and finding myself resentful at times as well. I can adapt just as well as the next guy, but I feel our heritage is getting shit on.
In my humble opinion, our Nation is dulling our competitive edge. Our kids are taught not to compete and win, just to participate. This, makes us weak.
That being said, being considerate of others, respectful, and self restraint, are not weaknesses but strengths.
My parents taught me to be polite. I have not being weakened by that. Five combat tours, several engagements with the enemy, the 2nd ID TKD championship a decade ago, seems to prove that. Treating Soldiers with dignity and respect make them better Soldiers, not worst. Just make sure that you are tough but fair.
Soldiers will not be in the military forever, so it is smart to keep in mind your social skills. When we retire, there is a whole different world out there, and those who cannot adapt, end up broke, and in trouble.
Lousy Soldiers? NCOs know how to deal with them. Lead from the front, counsel them properly, not just to tell them that they suck, and they will follow you to hell and back.
The few that cannot adapt, process them out.
Keep your focus and keep your passion alive. Train your Airmen and hold them to standards and DO NOT compromise on standards.
You are writing with a lot of passion in your words, I can feel it and I like it, but keep your head in the game.
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