How Do We Become Better Men?

2014-10-15T14:13:24-04:00

In 1920, Marine Commandant and Major General John A. Lejeune wrote a Marine Corps Order about the proper relationship between officers and men:

"When discharged from the service they should be far better men physically, mentally, and morally than they were when they enlisted. . . .It will be necessary for officers. . . to devote their close attention to the many questions affecting the comfort, health, morals, religious guidance, military training, and discipline of the men under their command."

How can we become better leaders using the General's framework of body, mind, and spirit?

Response by 1SG Steven Stankovich made Oct 15 at 2014 2:56 PM

2014-10-15T14:56:27-04:00

It may sound simple or cliché sir, but I believe the best way to become better leaders using General Legune's framework is to "know your Soldiers/Marines." Know who they are, where they came from, why they joined, ask about their family, what are their short term goals, long term goals, etc. Take interest in who they are and what motivates them. By doing that, you can better assess their strengths and weaknesses and work to build better "men and women."

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 15 at 2014 2:59 PM

2014-10-15T14:59:41-04:00

Maj Private RallyPoint Member, sir, I think the Army - at least on paper - is all about making better men and women, physically, mentally, and morally. The Army values are all about that, at least in part, and the Army way of life is as well.

It's hard for me to say that I was a better man when I left than when I entered, because I spent so much time in the Army. I do believe, however, that most people leave the Army in better shape - physically and mentally - than when they entered. I hope that's true of the moral aspect as well, but I'm not as sure about that one.