SENIOR NCOs & PSGs: What qualities and actions do you look for in a young LT?

Trust me. In my mind, if you fail, I fail.

Don't ever talk down to me. I have earned my place among Marines and will assist you in earning yours.

Tell me when I piss you off, it is not my intent to ever piss you off or humiliate you, but when I do I have a correction coming.

Hold me accountable, you can bet your ass I will hold you accountable.

We are a team. Never disagree with me in front of the troops. That is for behind closed doors. I will help you develop the plan, but in front of the boys, it is your plan and I am there to support you in implementing it.

Humility understand that we are a team. Be willing to listen be willing to work hard trust me that I'll give you the greatest platoon in the company

Good question LT!!

My answer:
- work hard and serve others (servant leaders are infectious and become influential)

- listen to the Soldiers who do the job and support the mission

- be an example - don't fall into the lazy officer mode, (slacking in your appearance, physical fitness, etc). Soldiers are always watching and will hold you accountable to not what you say alone, but what you exhibit.

- stay close to your platoon Sgt, as his job is to mentor and advise you. If he is good, you will feel challenged to grow constantly. Understand, most PSGs have 10-15 years experience and you need that wisdom. Don't ever despise that!!

- don't ever adopt the island mentality (you need people to support and mentor you). The moment you think you are above reproach - watch out because your time will be short. Leaders must stay connected with people (soldiers). I have witness officers/NCOs get relieved with that type of approach.

Lastly, you will do fine LT. Taking the time to ask shows that you want to win. If you need advice reach out to me anytime.

1SG Narcisse

LT, be open-minded to being mentored by your senior NCOs. Remembering that you still wear the bar and your decision is final. Don't get buddy-buddy with your enlisted troops. Bad things happen that way. Always remember that your humility, learning from your mistakes, and benevolent leadership will garner respect from your subordinates, peers and seniors. Don't get all doe-eyed and intimidated by anyone. We're all fallible. Put good leadership traits you see in others in your tool bag and toss the ones that don't fit you. Don't outright trust anyone. Your Soldiers need to earn your respect and trust as you need to earn theirs. Listen thoughtfully and be decisive without making snap judgments. Always use spell checker.
You'll do fine.

Good luck LT.

Willingness to listen and learn from from your SNCOs. The ability to see the job from not only your perspective but of those you command.

CPT(P) (Join to see) the fact you are willing to ask shows your ability to listen. Be aware of others when making your decisions. Accept your responsibility and don't be afraid to make mistakes.

Listen... ears open mouth closed... learn all you can and don't be afraid to ask questions. Lead from the front... treat your people with respect

The ability to listen, understand and follow the advice of his NCO's Getting a degree and going to OCS does not make a leader. The ability to learn from ones peers and subordinates is essential to any good leader. Remember that any leader is only as good as the men and women who follow him. If you take care of your people, they will take care of you. If you don't, then everyone will end up paying the price.

Make sure you listen to your men because they may just have more experience than you, especially in combat situations. In Viet Nam there too many green LT's that thought they knew it all and only got themelves and their men into situations that had disastrous results.

Respect has to be earned not demanded. Also remember the saying, "Praise in public, reprimand in private."