How has your idea of the ideal NCO and/or Officer changed from when you first began your career to now?

The biggest thing I have learned is that rank is only positional leadership. Pinnacle leaders do not rely on their rank to carry them, they carry their rank and more. I’ve met good officers and bad. Both non commissioned and commissioned. I’ve seen both types flaunt the rank but have no “go” when the rubber meets the road. And I’ve seen lower enlisted lead better than senior NCOs and commissioned officers. Leadership comes from within. You may be the boss, but you may not be the leader.

My perception hasn't really changed over the years. Good leadership qualities never change. However, what I did learn over the years is that those in leadership are not really any smarter than anyone else. Their focus is just different.

I thought leaders were intelligent, brave and articulate. Turns out they’re just people with a job that they hate and are sticking with it for the “benefits.”