What are you doing to ensure you continue to grow and develop as a leader?

2016-04-15T10:14:27-04:00

What are you doing individually or within your group or command to continue your growth as a leader?

When you transition what will you do to continue that development? If you have transitoned already what are you doing now?

Does is stop because you have left the military

Response by 1stSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2016 10:18 AM

2016-04-15T10:18:40-04:00

I read and try to stay in contact with my past. The people of my past ar the ones who got me here.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2016 10:22 AM

2016-04-15T10:22:00-04:00

Mentorship Program. To be a leader, one must be able to listen and learn to follow.

Response by Capt Seid Waddell made Apr 15 at 2016 10:23 AM

2016-04-15T10:23:21-04:00

It never stops until the dirt hits the box.

Response by SrA Edward Vong made Apr 15 at 2016 10:35 AM

2016-04-15T10:35:23-04:00

As sh*tty as this sounds, align myself with the right people who have made it high and follow in their footsteps. Take mental notes when I can.

Response by SFC Familia Gonzalez made Apr 15 at 2016 10:36 AM

2016-04-15T10:36:48-04:00

Be a lifelong learner. Use both formal and informal learning opportunities to grow...

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2016 10:40 AM

2016-04-15T10:40:55-04:00

I'm trying to figure out just how the current administration can LEAD from behind. On second thought, disregard or digress.

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Apr 15 at 2016 11:43 AM

2016-04-15T11:43:52-04:00

Most important thing for me to "continue to grow and develop as a leader" is to seek wisdom and guidance from God COL Mikel J. Burroughs by asking Him directly, reading His Word, and listening to sound counsel.
Secondarily I read and study and practice being a servant leader as much as I can.
Third I recognize that as long as I am alive I can learn both from good examples and bad examples of leadership and service.

Response by Col Joseph Lenertz made Apr 15 at 2016 11:50 AM

2016-04-15T11:50:52-04:00

Since retirement, it's been mostly listening and reading. Listening for the best books on leadership, and reading those books, and then listening again from leaders all around me.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2016 12:36 PM

2016-04-15T12:36:01-04:00

There's always a course to sign up for or a book to read. Look for recommendations from those you respect. Surround yourself with people of the same mind towards learning and always have at least one mentor engaged.

Response by CPT Joseph K Murdock made Apr 15 at 2016 1:48 PM

2016-04-15T13:48:40-04:00

I am a has been, but I look into history to find parallels or seminal points.

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Apr 16 at 2016 9:05 AM

2016-04-16T09:05:16-04:00

Working with youth , especially young scouts teaching them to be able to read military maps, terrain features and different symbols used.

Response by Maj Marty Hogan made Apr 16 at 2016 12:51 PM

2016-04-16T12:51:27-04:00

COL Mikel J. Burroughs PME and grabbing every leadership opportunity available. I also try to do things that take me out of my comfort zone. I don't want to get complacent in anything and I always try to stay dialed into what is going on with each section in our group.

Response by CPT Joseph K Murdock made Apr 16 at 2016 1:44 PM

2016-04-16T13:44:31-04:00

Its grooming your replacements. Taking the time to show them the big picture and how we fit in it.

Response by 1SG Cameron M. Wesson made Apr 16 at 2016 4:05 PM

2016-04-16T16:05:36-04:00

I do a number of different activities.

1. I read... both nonfiction and fiction... it broadens perspective and causes reflection when you pick a good book.

2. I continue to educate myself. Im currently completing a Cert id Public Leadership with the Brookings Institute... Im also pursung a Master Degree (my third) in Leadership with Washington Univ (Olin School of Business)... never to old to stop learning.

3. I have a few mentors (peer and senior)... they are great for perspective and to share lessons with.

4. I mentor... formally and informally... mentees teach you a world of knowledge... and the keep you in the "know" and keep you fresh.

5. I admit that each day that I am dumber than the day prior... and I stay humble. I realize Im here for my subordinates... not the other way around.

Response by SGT Paul Mackay made Apr 16 at 2016 7:22 PM

2016-04-16T19:22:51-04:00

being more open with people

Response by LTC Terrence Farrier, PhD made Apr 17 at 2016 11:16 PM

2016-04-17T23:16:02-04:00

Not for me. I am a constant...really constant...lover of knowledge. I don't even have to agree with the direction it comes from, but knowing more perspectives helps you lead better.

Response by Cpl Richard Leonard made Apr 21 at 2016 1:55 PM

2016-04-21T13:55:06-04:00

Trust me your leadership skills apply, you just have to adapt them to civilian life. A team is still a team a leader surrounds himself with people that serve the team. Trust only those that have your back and always learn from those that have succeeded. Follow other leader that you want to be like learn their goals but earn it yourself. Make yourself stand out in a respected way. The rest happens.

Response by SSG Leonard J W. made Apr 29 at 2016 5:07 PM

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COL Mikel J. Burroughs, my answer is short: College!

Response by SrA William Giraldi made Apr 30 at 2016 11:55 AM

2016-04-30T11:55:39-04:00

Absolutely not. Just because one leaves the military, doesn't mean that one stops growing as a leader. Granted, I'm working on my BS in business administration w/ a focus on general management and so there are some leadership classes to take in the curriculum to make sure you get the full spectrum of what being a leader is about. I've spent time as a site security manage while as a contractor and also held a position as training room NCO at Fort Stewart and that was only as an E4 (normally held by an E6 or 7). Obviously, the battery saw potential in me to put me in such a slot. I've learned how to communicate professionally and distinctly a in such positions. Even while working at Fort Dix under HRC-Alexandria as the RC Medical Board Liaison, I was an E4 attending meetings for a master sergeant and giving briefings to senior NCOs and officers.

Leadership grows on a person. Of course the second part of that is taking courses in a curriculum that will make you a future leader. I've had the benefit of falling into positions that'll make this skill grow on me and make me a better person professionally.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 30 at 2016 12:05 PM

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1. Believe it is possible to become greater than I am.

2. Do what say I am going to do.

3. Surround myself with positive people (Steel sharpens Steel).

Response by SGT Nia Chiaraluce made Apr 30 at 2016 2:29 PM

2016-04-30T14:29:02-04:00

I personally jump on free training that focuses on building relationships with others. Any training that helps you learn how people tick and how to motivate them fuels my fire.

Response by SPC Carrie Bonney made May 2 at 2016 1:09 PM

2016-05-02T13:09:59-04:00

I agree with so many of the comments here. You never stop being a leader and my military background has developed skills for me that my peers and civilian leaders can't touch. I continue to feed off of those I've seen in my past both good and bad. You can't lead if you don't know how to follow and how to listen to your staff. You have to welcome criticism and you must take it and learn from it. I think you always continue to develop yourself and your leadership skills and that's how you continue to be a better leader.

Response by SFC Randy Purham made May 2 at 2016 6:18 PM

2016-05-02T18:18:11-04:00

COL Mikel J. Burroughs, Its hard to answer this question without making it seem like I am bragging or boasting about myself, I consider myself to be pretty humble LOL. But, seriously, I engage with like-minded leaders, seek opportunities to get "nuggets of knowledge" and information for my own edification and to share with my circles/mentees. I stay engaged with helping others through the organizations that I am involved with and try to teach, coach, and mentor through those channels as well.

As I approach that critical time-frame of retirement, I have been working on the "next" chapter in my life - which is politics - for the last few years. Networking, getting name recognition, establishing contacts, and showing my face around DC as much as I have the opportunity to. Education and Veterans Affairs are a big proponent of my candidacy for Congress, so I work closely with a lot of Veterans in developing them and getting them back on track or taking their current situation to the next level of their glide-path. Staying relevant, ready, and reliable is important in being a Leader and we have to take the necessary steps in our daily habits to demonstrate that quality to those we wish to lead. "Begin with the end in mind." - Stephen R. Covey

Response by SGT Richard Gregory made Aug 12 at 2016 4:34 PM

2016-08-12T16:34:20-04:00

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Response by LTC Jesse Edwards made Aug 12 at 2016 6:35 PM

2016-08-12T18:35:44-04:00

I'm out. My OPD continues though with:
-Starting a small business
-Teaching graduate courses in Project Management
-Running for elective office
-Reading your posts on RallyPoint.com

Response by TSgt Joe C. made Aug 12 at 2016 10:15 PM

2016-08-12T22:15:56-04:00

Learning never stops COL Mikel J. Burroughs. Developing new leadership qualities being enrolled in the distance learning course for Senior NCO Academy. This is my next step on my building block of education and leadership.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 13 at 2016 10:35 PM

2016-08-13T22:35:46-04:00

COL Mikel J. Burroughs That's an outstanding quote, Sir!

I was just contacted by one of my former Soldiers, thanking me for everything that I had done for him. I then explained that he was already the person that he was now proud to be, we just had to fine tune him and get him to realize what he could do with himself!

Response by SrA Chris "Shadow" McGee made Aug 16 at 2016 10:54 AM

2016-08-16T10:54:58-04:00

Having left the USAF many years ago, I first thought my leadership role had ended. After working several low paying jobs, and being a Security Site Supervisor, I realized I could still "take care of my people". I enrolled in school, got an AAS, then a BA and I work in the IT field, where I constantly try to keep up with new technology, and guide my co-workers to do the same. I am not "in charge" but I do have significant input when we are looking to make changes and upgrades. I am hoping to go back to school for my Master's degree soon, and get into more important roles in the IT community.

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 16 at 2016 11:07 AM

2016-08-16T11:07:33-04:00

I continue lead by example,never asking of my subordinates anything I cannot do myself, i treat them with respect, and stress the importance of teamwork. The 14 Traits of a Leader (Justice, Judgement, Dependability, Initiative, Decisiveness, Tact, Integrity, Endurance, Bearing, Unselfishness, Courage, Knowledge, Loyalty, and Enthusiasm) still apply in military or civilian life. I have not transitioned yet, but if i do,i will carry my military values with me.

Response by SGT Michael Olsen made Sep 23 at 2016 9:15 AM

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Abiding by my philosophy: I may not be the smartest person, but I surround myself with those that are.

Response by Cpl Matt Maddux made Sep 23 at 2016 9:48 AM

2016-09-23T09:48:15-04:00

It never really stops. As life goes on you're always in some kind of leadership position. In your family, at work, or even just among friends. The best way is to keep an open mind, take what you learn in the civilian world and combine it with what you got from the military and use that to change anything that you think will better suit your new environment. Being a leader, you need to understand the people around you. Not everyone responds the same way to certain leadership styles so you need to be able to adapt. But you must never betray your values otherwise you become either a brown nose or grade a jerk.

Response by Cpl Justin Goolsby made Sep 23 at 2016 3:24 PM

2016-09-23T15:24:00-04:00

It never stops... even after you leave. If I have knowledge, then I am going to pass that knowledge. Right now I'm working with a group that is behind the curve on proficiency, so I'm training as much as I can to get them up to speed. Even if it's not job related, I'm always open to giving advice to Marines to help them develop. The way I see it, every little bit you do makes the Marine Corps better as a whole.

Response by SGT(P) Gloria Francis made Sep 23 at 2016 4:49 PM

2016-09-23T16:49:32-04:00

I've continued serving the military community by helping with VA compensation & other benefits, networking, help transitioning active duty members, educate, being a support in time of need, etc...
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Freedom Wings, LLC has 779 members. Welcome to Freedom Wings, a community where we're changing lives & creating hope. I retired from the Army in 2015. I understand the havoc of obtaining the benefits we've already earned through our service rendered but having to fight to get them once we come out of uniform. My background is in education, business, social services & I'm currently pursuing my MBA in marketing. While on active duty as an NCO, I...

Response by Angela Hawkins made Sep 28 at 2016 2:46 PM

2016-09-28T14:46:14-04:00

I continuously educate myself and surround myself with leaders and other people who are great examples. I find that you are the average of the people you surround yourself with so I make sure I surround myself with people who are always moving forward, who have great attitudes and those who will help me grow as well.

Response by SPC Jill Drushal, RN, MA made Sep 29 at 2016 12:39 AM

2016-09-29T00:39:31-04:00

I am a Registered Nurse with licenses in two states. Those licenses must be renewed every two years and each state has different requirements for renewal. . . My Alaska license renews every even-numbered year in October/November. One must complete two of three things for renewal. The most popular are 360 hours of work time and 30 Continuing Education Units (CEUs). Each CEU is roughly equivalent to one clock hour. These things ensure that the individual RN stays current on the latest evidence-based practice. . . My Arkansas (compact state) license renews each odd-numbered year during my birth month. Only 15 CEUs are required for renewal. . . An RN can bypass the work and CEU requirements by taking courses toward an advanced degree in nursing or earning a specialty certification. Earlier this year, I earned a specialty certification as a Certified Legal Nurse Consultant (CLNC). Specialty certifications too must be renewed every two years, just like BLS and ACLS certifications.

Response by PO1 Kevin Arnold made Oct 19 at 2016 9:37 AM

2016-10-19T09:37:11-04:00

Unfortunately I am not able to do more than what I have done while in the Navy. For now I have to be a follower and an example for others. Yes it's hard but if you don't no job will keep you because you are to stubborn to follow their instructions. However, in a different job I am able to take my training and be a leader in the classroom as a substitute teacher.

Response by Cpl Ivan Dominguez made Oct 20 at 2016 2:05 PM

2016-10-20T14:05:15-04:00

I don't think Leadership should ever be a skill that your not constantly honing. I still go the gun range to practice my marksmanship and I still go run and workout to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Why should Leadership be any different?
We get to learn some of the most sought after traits while in the military, in regards to leadership, mentor-ship, coaching and training. Why should we squander that skill-set? Personally, I continue to read books on leadership (since I've left the service I've re-read The Art of War of several times), Chesty's rules of success is still one of my favorites.
I am part of a peer to peer mentoring group that helps to continue to develop my skills as a leader. If I'm not doing my part to be a leader for my family and my organization, then what am I doing? "Train like you fight, fight like you train"

Just my .02

Semper Fi!

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2016 9:43 PM

2016-11-18T21:43:22-05:00

The key is listening, to both your leadership and the soldiers

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 3 at 2016 12:00 AM

2016-12-03T00:00:46-05:00

Hello Sir, I am very impressed by your contributions to the community and genuinely concerned about Leadership issues as well. As an individual I continue to apply myself towards improving my Leadership skills in order to set an example for those who may follow me. As far as transitioning or leaving the service, developing oneself should never just STOP.

Response by Sgt Ian Richmond made Dec 3 at 2016 7:35 PM

2016-12-03T19:35:04-05:00

Challenging myself with new and unfamiliar situations. Ask for help when I need it. Ensuring there is ample communication on my team.

Response by Cpl Rebecca Nicholson made Dec 10 at 2016 1:16 PM

2016-12-10T13:16:54-05:00

I try to learn and implement a new skill every year; for instance, 2015 I taught myself how to develop and maintain websites, then used that knowledge to set one up for my personal trainer in exchange for free training sessions - a win win situation!

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 15 at 2017 7:18 PM

2017-01-15T19:18:31-05:00

Asking anyone and everyone for guidance.

Response by GySgt Melissa Gravila made Jan 15 at 2017 7:27 PM

2017-01-15T19:27:16-05:00

COMPLACENCY SUCKS! I'm always looking for bigger and better. Ways to improve meal service, improve the menu, customer service, staff moral, my techniques, new recipes (using my family as guinea pigs)- always keep learning, always growing. When I say "jump" I don't want to hear, how high? I want to hear Is this high enough? (It never is)

Response by WO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 15 at 2017 7:39 PM

2017-01-15T19:39:20-05:00

Not being afraid to try new things so as to have a experience and/or opinion on something

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 16 at 2017 6:16 AM

2017-01-16T06:16:16-05:00

1. Train and develop those who will be here when I am gone.
2. Continue my higher education as I cannot preach the same to my troops if I am not prepared to do it myself.
3. Stress the importance of networking. The Army has taken much of that away from us with all this computer-based training.
4. Instill self-respect and respect for others as many are going our ranks without either.
5. Accountability- taking ownership if ones actions/inactions, expect others to do the same. In the civilian world, blaming others for one's inadequacies does not fly.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2017 9:28 PM

2017-12-30T21:28:54-05:00

1) Surround myself with good people. You eventually become who you surround yourself with.
2) Write down good and bad leadership examples that I see on a daily basis.
3) Invest in those around me, and do everything I can to ensure their success.
4) Fail.
5) Learn/bounce back from failure.
6) Read books and reflect on them.
7) Mentor and be mentored.

Response by Capt Dwayne Conyers made Jan 1 at 2018 3:14 PM

2018-01-01T15:14:11-05:00

Well, COL Mikel J. Burroughs… I pray for the wisdom of God.

Response by Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 1 at 2018 10:32 PM

2018-01-01T22:32:51-05:00

I have never been IN the Military only served with the Military in Afg. But, in my role as a 'leader', I have tried to follow Jesus' example, lead from the front/lead by example, teach those under me, impart knowledge & wisdom as needed in the Spirit of the Scriptures, in humility;
James 1:5K (KJV)
5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.
Jesus asked that we seek & find, ask so that it may be given & knock so that the door will open!
Blessings my HEROES !!! HOORAH !!!

Response by PO1 Kevin Dougherty made Jan 1 at 2018 11:23 PM

2018-01-01T23:23:21-05:00

SSG Palmer said it well just below. I would only add first and foremost, follow your conscience, and God.

Response by CPT Scott Sharon made Jan 2 at 2018 12:15 PM

2018-01-02T12:15:33-05:00

My business is in new technology and my primary responsibility is to keep up with what's new. There are so many new and exciting technologies being developed in my industry it makes my job very exciting. I have to make sure I keep up with it as it is developed.

Response by SSgt Gary Andrews made Jan 2 at 2018 6:31 PM

2018-01-02T18:31:40-05:00

I learned leadership skills in the Marine Corps.....but not just through training. I watched others who were in leadership roles and paid attention to what worked well, and what didn't.....then adapted what I learned to my own style. After the service, leadership learning did not stop, as I had to adapt to a different kind of workforce with a different kind of mission. Before I retired, I did my best to pass along all I had learned to those staying behind. Now I just play golf and do all the grandpa things......except for participating here on RallyPoint.

Response by SGT Brent Scott made Jan 2 at 2018 6:32 PM

2018-01-02T18:32:46-05:00

Well can’t say that I have a direct connection anymore to a buddy to nudge me along or an order to follow, but through Rally Point and other members among this site the readings and experiences from others keep me in the stage of growth and focus ability. Since joining this family I have become more disciplined, getting back to basic routines of exercise and let’s not forget the OCD ways which we have followed for so many yrs!! Still bouncing quarters off my bed!!!

Response by Sgt Vance Bonds made Jan 2 at 2018 8:34 PM

2018-01-02T20:34:11-05:00

Those are excellent values! Thank you, Sir

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 2 at 2018 8:58 PM

2018-01-02T20:58:19-05:00

Time management with a purpose

Response by SGT Russell Wickham made Jan 3 at 2018 1:54 PM

2018-01-03T13:54:22-05:00

I have already transitioned. In the military I learned to lead from the front, to be in the suck with my men and to show what the standard was through my actions. It worked.

Since transition, I have applied what I learned then while I continue to I read, to study people, ask for feed back, and listen to my subordinates in an effort to foster an environment of mutual respect and support. I have found good leadership has become even more important since I left the military because my men have the freedom to leave, while we couldn't leave tyrannical leaders in the military. It has only intensified since leaving the military.

Response by A1C Ian Williams made Jan 3 at 2018 2:19 PM

2018-01-03T14:19:47-05:00

I make sure to practice good listening skills COL Mikel J. Burroughs Direct the flow of emotions, take effective pauses to assess and respond accordingly, and also in some cases empathise with a point of view which may be foreign to me.

Response by Lt Col Charlie Brown made Jan 3 at 2018 2:22 PM

2018-01-03T14:22:30-05:00

Before you are a leader, success is all about growing yourself. When you become a leader, success is all about growing others. —Jack Welch
I like this quote because it talks about growth. When I served, I did both PME and academic education (MS in Organizational Leadership) and I jumped at any opportunity to try out my skills (Honor Guard Commander, ROTC summer camp instructor, etc) along with my regular duties. Once I retired, I realized how valuable my leadership skills were and what was just as valuable was my habit of learning new skills (another masters, multiple certifications) and jumping in to try new things. I ended up being selected lead counselor and I got into the mentoring business and I find it not just rewarding but great for growth. They pose questions I never would have thought of...we look for answers together.

Response by Col Robert Wallace made Jan 3 at 2018 2:45 PM

2018-01-03T14:45:00-05:00

As a C130 PIC, I was, by default, a "leader" of the crew. That in itself, did not make me a leader. My crew was made up of a group of "old timers" who served under many different "leaders". Therefore, I believed it to be prudent to get their input on every mission. Ultimately, the decision was mine but it was based on what data/input I received from my crew, not just Flight Operations. Upon leaving the military, a series of medical problems have arisen. When The VA doctors proposed options on procedures and leaving the decision up to me, my "leader" ability took over, listening to their input, weighing pros and cons, then making a decision. So far, all decisions have been benefited me and not harmful. I pray God will continue to be by my side and instill the wisdom to make the right decisions.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 3 at 2018 3:01 PM

2018-01-03T15:01:06-05:00

If I get caught violating policy or the ROE, I beg forgiveness, ascertain how I was discovered, and make certain I don't get caught (at least that way) again.

Response by LTC John Griscom made Jan 3 at 2018 3:26 PM

2018-01-03T15:26:12-05:00

Using my experience to help others.

Response by CMSgt Steve Pennington made Jan 3 at 2018 3:49 PM

2018-01-03T15:49:01-05:00

This is an interesting question and by some of the responses many of you "Get it." In my years in leadership positions I have developed my own style, as I am sure most of you have. In developing that style I have placed values on certain norms of behavior and conduct. The first is making sure those in my area of responsibiity grasp the difference between management and leadership. When a person would wax eloquently in euphemisms and metaphors I know they are overthinking the question. Putting it simply, you lead people and you manage things (processes). I taught 4 precepts: Play by the rules, don't lie cheat or steal, lead by example, and treat people the way you want to be treated. You can't enforce the rules if you don't live by them, once you lose your credibility you will never regain it, emulate those traits you admire in others and don't be guilty of of the traits you disliked in others, treat people with the same courtesy and respect you want them to advance to you. The basic premise does not change, but the audience does. Undertand people respond differently than when we were developing as leaders and communicate differently.

Response by SPC Nanette Porter made Jan 3 at 2018 3:49 PM

2018-01-03T15:49:52-05:00

For me coming here has been a way for me to continue to grow as a person because no matter what the military never leaves you as a person and for a long while I have felt stifled in that part of my life. I know that there are other ways but this is best for me now.
I will always grow with my family and all the changes but I think everyone hew has served or is seving finds that you have 2 family's in a way. Your own and the military, and It don't matter if you have served with them or not you will always feel a kinship with anyone hew is or has served.

Response by Marlene Hessler made Jan 3 at 2018 3:57 PM

2018-01-03T15:57:17-05:00

Working with patriot groups to educate public on costs of open borders, violation of immigration laws, and failure to fund and support our military. Think rules of engagement and socializing military.

Response by Cpl Scott McCarroll made Jan 3 at 2018 3:59 PM

2018-01-03T15:59:20-05:00

The thing I remember from NCO School was saying let's get this done, instead of hey asshole got over here and paint the rock garden.

Response by William Andrew Wilson made Jan 3 at 2018 6:14 PM

2018-01-03T18:14:23-05:00

family structure, military structure, family structure, work structure and repeat.

Response by MSgt John McGowan made Jan 4 at 2018 7:36 AM

2018-01-04T07:36:40-05:00

COL Mikel Burroughs--- We will just about all reach that point in life where we have no one to lead. Not much else to prove. You then transfer your priorities to something else. Mine is my family and I help when called upon. I am inot one to get in their business unless I see something going to hell. Willing to help if called upon, but I have found out family gets a little bossy the older I get. But they care and and they are concerned about me. I am not up to longs travel anymore and if I did when I got there it would be a pain getting around. I had a Doctor tell me once that my Mom had a better chance to Make it to 100 than I did. She was a lot closer, she lived until she was 97.You have a great day Sir.

Response by SSG Thomas Barry made Jan 4 at 2018 11:10 AM

2018-01-04T11:10:37-05:00

Be a role model for my grandchildren because all they see on tv is old people acting badly

Response by Capt Christian D. Orr made Jan 5 at 2018 4:34 AM

2018-01-05T04:34:40-05:00

Always keep an open mind.

Response by SFC James Himes made Jan 5 at 2018 11:53 AM

2018-01-05T11:53:56-05:00

There are many volunteer groups that need qualified trained leaders. I have been working with the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) for over 25 years now. Great program with both youth and adult opportunities. I have worked with the cadet side of the program and have continued to sustain my leadership skills and instill them in the cadets I work with. The youth and their optimism help me stay current on new ideas and ways to view situations.
The organization is also very involved in Emergency Services in the way of Search and Rescue of persons and aircraft and assisting with recovery operations after natural disasters. CAP conducts nearly 90% of all search and rescue of downed aircraft within the continental United States. We also assist Homeland Security operations.
There are many other such programs and organizations that can greatly benefit from what we as veterans have learned especially in the way of leadership and teamwork.

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Jan 5 at 2018 12:06 PM

2018-01-05T12:06:57-05:00

Train them to do your job. That will make them better and you can take a nap

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 29 at 2018 3:43 PM

2018-01-29T15:43:23-05:00

3 things comes to my mind:
1) Communicate with others.
2) Coordinate with others.
3) Cooperate with others.

Response by SFC James Beasley made Feb 16 at 2018 9:20 AM

2018-02-16T09:20:49-05:00

Since my retirement eleven years ago I have been teaching a bunch of ninth and tenth graders about biology. Like the military it has its challenges and rewards. As a teacher I have attended workshops and seminars that specifically target the aspects of being a better teacher. I am currently attending night school so that I can receive a master's degree in educational leadership with principal certification. This degree will afford me the opportunity to impact more students in a positive way.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 16 at 2018 11:22 AM

2018-02-16T11:22:27-05:00

COL Mikel J. Burroughs outside the usual PME and OPD I try to attend at least one course every year, continue civilian education, and try to read when I am not in school to learn from others and their experiences.

Response by SFC David Pope, MBA made Feb 20 at 2018 1:07 PM

2018-02-20T13:07:04-05:00

I continually teach leadership to youth in the Boy Scouts. I have attended Woodbadge for scout leaders. Since retirement I have received my MBA, and I am working toward a doctorate in business administration with a concentration in organizational behavior and leadership. I find that continued education and developing leadership skills will give us the ability to pass our knowledge along to the younger generations. If we don't teach them, they will teach themselves, and we can see how that has worked with millennials.