What are the characteristics that you like to see in your junior enlisted?

With very junior Soldiers I really appreciate the basics: On time, good attitude and willing to learn. As they become experienced, I look for self motivated doers as well as those that start to show ability to influence others. I expect Specialists to exhibit competence as they are often the workhorse I depend on to carry out the tasks that have been delegated down through me by those above. Specialists need to be seeking out more responsibility and starting to act like NCOs.

I liked to see initiative, honesty and dependability.

First, I'd start with a centered cravat. Next I'm looking for someone who is willing to learn and has initiative to get into the profession with both hands. Then it comes down to character. You can't shine a turd. If the Soldier comes in with baggage that he can't or won't drop at the door and isn't willing to accept the traditions and ethics of the military, then he's going to cause problems that go beyond his day to day job.