What is the best advice you can give a Jr Officer?

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 27 Oct 2013 02:03:27 -0400

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 27 at 2013 9:30 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 27 Oct 2013 09:30:42 -0400

I would say the best thing for a brand new LT is to not take criticism personally. You got to have thick skin to learn from your mistakes and allow the NCOs to teach you. At the same time though reserving yourself to make decisions. Be a student of your craft and leadership and keep developing yourself mentally. The fundamental art of learning to adapt to overcome an obstacle and keep charging forward is one that will make you an outstanding Officer. Always take care of your Soldiers, they are your lifeblood. Know their limitations, but continue to push them to achieve their full potential. Your success as a leader is developing your Soldiers to become their best.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 27 at 2013 9:56 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 27 Oct 2013 09:56:20 -0400

2LT Brantley, That is a great question! first of all you must remember that you are now in management. A problem many officers have is moving from the operational to the strategic. second, ALAWAYS remember the following: if it is illegal, immoral, or inhumane: don't do it. If you won't be proud to put it on the front page of the Wall Street Journal: don't do it. If it will keep you up at night; don't do. third, keep http://www.apd.army.mil/ in your favorites, fourth, there are Soldiers ready to help you; ask and ask directly. fifth, if you ask for advice, accept it. there is nothing more annoying than asking folks for help and then disregarding their advice. Sixth, you are a young Soldier, there is no better teacher than experience, your senior NCO's have a lot of it.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 27 at 2013 4:58 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 27 Oct 2013 16:58:55 -0400

When it comes to career progression and what your long term goals are, dont take no for an answer. No one will ever care about your career as much as you, so take it in to your own hands. Always achieve your best at the things you know you can control, often times those are the things most visible. As the O, you should be the best marksman, the most fit, and the quickest to formulate decisions. Those are the things you can control, so they better always be top notch. OERs and awards are subjective, do the best you can but dont let a bad OER or something less than a top block get you down. Be a good and honest person and good things will fall in place as long as you continue to seek them. Greatness wont just find you, you have to make it for yourself.

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 27 at 2013 5:57 PM

CW4 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 27 Oct 2013 17:57:03 -0400

I think that sometimes Officers, NCOs and Warrants alike get too caught up in worrying about status or the eval.. My advice would start out very simple. 1) Take care of the troops; they will take care of you.2) Take care of the troops; they will take care of the mission. 3) Trust your troops.. you kinda have to.. or you will fail4) You can learn something from all ranks.. 5) Find a mentor.That would be the basis of my advice...

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 27 at 2013 9:33 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 27 Oct 2013 21:33:37 -0400

My advice to a junior officer is to realize that you actually know very little about how to do your job and that by the time you figure it out, you're going to move on. The earlier you learn this, the more quickly you can start seeking out those who do know how to do it. Ask yourself, "Who is the best platoon leader in the Company?" ... hopefully, it's the CDR. "Who knows my Soldiers best?" ... hopefully the PSG and squad leaders. Junior officer are set up to learn from those around them, soak it up!

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 28 at 2013 9:37 AM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 28 Oct 2013 09:37:34 -0400

You are going to mess it up. You are officially in charge but your subordinates have a wealth of experience; that makes you a better decider than planner. Demand that your NCOs train and teach you. Every horrible company commander had a horrible PSG as their first trainer in the regular Army. Take the opportunity to make bold decisions in a training environment to learn as much as you can and trust experience down range.

Response by CPT Aaron Kletzing made Oct 28 at 2013 9:43 AM

CPT Aaron Kletzing — Mon, 28 Oct 2013 09:43:25 -0400

2LT B, my advice is to do the absolute best that you can in all situations, and focus on taking care of your Soldiers as well as possible. Trust your instincts and do not default to blindly trusting the recommendations of those who have more time in the service than you. Typically, their advice is right on -- but not every time. Find some good NCOs in your unit and spend some time learning from them. If they have an "I hate all junior officers" attitude (which is not common, though it does exist), then find other NCOs to connect with. Make sure they understand that you appreciate and respect their perspectives. NCOs can be a real gold mine of mentorship if you are able to connect with the right ones. I was fortunate to be surrounded by excellent NCOs, and they taught me a ton.

Response by LTJG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 28 at 2013 10:25 PM

LTJG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 28 Oct 2013 22:25:46 -0400

This is obviously not meant to say I have more experience that you, because I don't; especially since you are a prior NCO. But if I were to share what I have learned with anyone else that will read this thread, it's that no matter what your commissioning source or how much experience you have prior to commissioning, you have to approach your job with a good measure of humility. I learned this lesson the hard way. Rank has it's benefits, but it certainly doesn't entitle you to all the good or best ideas. I know lot's of 0-3's that still have no concept of this.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 28 at 2013 11:47 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 28 Oct 2013 23:47:46 -0400

Make your set of standards and let the NCO's know what you expect. Confidence is everything but don't be afraid to admit when something is wrong otherwise how else is anything going to change. Also don't hold information back, nothing lets a soldier feel betrayed by his leadership than to have to get important information from elsewhere. As a lower enlisted I would rather get 20 different FRAGOs over a 3 week period than 1 solidified order the day a high priority task rolls the CoC. All we want is the information we need to execute the mission and we can do all the rest sir. Also frequent inventories on high usage items, that should be a standard that honestly I don't see being done, because soldiers lose stuff or it gets stolen way too frequently.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 29 at 2013 1:04 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 29 Oct 2013 01:04:36 -0400

Sir, Completely agree with SGM Brainard! Trust your NCOs! Yes we call our training SGT Time Training but I never once turned an LT away who wanted to learn what we were teaching our troops. Not saying we will not play pranks here and there on you but we will never send you in the wrong direction. Never be afraid to say "Show Me!" just because I say trust us don't mean you don't need to know where it is for yourself so that if you have the question you will know where to look for the answer. I always found the quote "In God we Trust, All others we Verify" very useful. Also Google is your friend but not perfect so use it to find the answer but then verify it in the regulations.

If you haven't done it yet join S1NET I recommend you join it's not just for AG Corps its for everyone and provides updates in regulations often. I also recommend you set up a rule to move the emails into a folder automatically if not it will fill up your inbox.

JOIN INSTRUCTIONS: If you would like to join S1NET:
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Response by SFC Michael Boulanger made Oct 29 at 2013 9:02 AM

SFC Michael Boulanger — Tue, 29 Oct 2013 09:02:29 -0400

Listen to your NCOs.

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 29 at 2013 9:03 AM

Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 29 Oct 2013 09:03:33 -0400

When it comes to discipline, never confuse a mistake from intent.

Response by CPT Mike M. made Oct 29 at 2013 9:19 AM

CPT Mike M. — Tue, 29 Oct 2013 09:19:13 -0400

1. Listen to your NCOs and Soldiers

2. Keep thick skin or if you don't have it, you better get it. Quick. No one's perfect, make mistakes and learn from it in training so you don't make them when lives are on the line.

3. Learn from your NCOs and Soldiers

4. Make mistakes, make them often, but LEARN from them. Never screw up the same thing in the same way more than once. We learn from our failures.

5. Be professional but don't lose who you are. If it's not you to be 100% business all the time then don't be. Your Soldiers will see through that. It's easy and at the same time for some can be hard to find that balance between maintaining your personality and maintaining your leadership presence.

6. Never miss a suspense/SP/hard time but IF YOU HAVE TO let your boss know early if an expectation is not able to be met.

7. There's a lot that's screwed up in the Army, in units, with people, etc. It's not productive and wastes people's time though if you bring up a complaint without a recommendation. Always address a problem with a plan, not just a pouty face.

8. Stop worrying about your OER. Once you get focused on how good you look compared to everyone else (or bad) you're going to lose focus on what's important. Do your job to the best of your ability, take care of your people. Your leadership sees more than you think, you'll be noticed if you're doing the right stuff. Don't sweat it, it'll come.

9. Know your boss. This does NOT mean kiss up to him/her. This means get to know how he/she thinks, what he/she expects, etc. The quicker you get them pegged, the quicker you'll be able to figure out what they're going to focus on, ask about, or need. There's a BIG difference between being a kiss ass and keeping your boss happy.

10. Pick your battles. Everyone wants to come out swinging to protect their Soldiers. That's good. However, if you attempt to fight higher on every little thing you're going to become the little boy who cried wolf. Suck it up and deal with the rough times 90% of the time so that when that big, legitimate issue comes around, you have a little more of a leg to stand on. You'll be taken more seriously. Not to mention, and I hope you've got thick skin like I said in bullet #2, but a brand new 2LT isn't going to have much wasta and your argument will get shot down more often than not anyway.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 29 at 2013 9:40 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 29 Oct 2013 09:40:06 -0400

There are many excellent responses here already. Shows that advice varies based on experiences and opinions. More importantly, it shows that Soldiers and NCOs want good officers serving with them and leading them. The first advice I give to new officers is to remember that you are responsible for your unit - everything in your unit - good, bad, and ugly. Take that responsibility seriously and hold yourself accountable. To do so successfully requires many things: a learning attitude; a willingness to make mistakes and learn from them; a trust of your subordinates and a relationship with them that enables you to learn from them while still being the leader of the team; a self-confidence to make decisions, identify problems and develop solutions; and an ability to build and keep a cohesive team through all circumstances.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 29 at 2013 12:07 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 29 Oct 2013 12:07:19 -0400

Listen to your SNCOs, recognize you don't know everything, and absorb as much as you can while you can so when you rank up you can be a better and stronger leader.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 29 at 2013 6:58 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 29 Oct 2013 18:58:25 -0400

Always focus on commander intent. When you get on the ground, things are often very fluid- and you may have to execute a FRAGO to your meticulously planned mission more than once.

Just remember what the endstate is and work towards that result.

Remember- if the square peg doesn't fit in the round hole the best COA isn't to hit it with a hammer until it does.

Response by CDR Dan E. made Oct 29 at 2013 10:03 PM

CDR Dan E. — Tue, 29 Oct 2013 22:03:12 -0400

Always remember that you manage things and lead people. Never try to manage your people or you will lose their respect.

Response by CDR Dan E. made Oct 29 at 2013 10:05 PM

CDR Dan E. — Tue, 29 Oct 2013 22:05:41 -0400

Always remember that you manage "things" and lead people. Never try to manage your people or you will lose their respect and seldom inspire or motivate.

Response by SSG Shannon Howe made Oct 30 at 2013 9:55 AM

SSG Shannon Howe — Wed, 30 Oct 2013 09:55:32 -0400

In addition to what SGM Brainard stated, I would add this: If you are prior enlisted, please don't forget where you came from! If you've never been enlisted, take the time to talk to and get to know your Soldiers and NCOs, and attempt to understand the issues and challenges that they deal with. By no means am I saying coddle or be "buddies" with anyone, but nobody likes to work for or with someone who won't even take the time to try to understand their perspective. Communication is the key to ANY type of relationship, personal and professional. Finally, always be honest with your troops. It's better to tell the hard truth than sugar coat a problem.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 31 at 2013 1:13 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 31 Oct 2013 01:13:09 -0400

Take the time to learn from your senior NCOs before you get to a rank where everyone else expects you to really know what you're doing.

Response by CH (MAJ) Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 31 at 2013 5:51 AM

CH (MAJ) Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 31 Oct 2013 05:51:23 -0400

Continue to ask good questions like this one.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 31 at 2013 10:01 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 31 Oct 2013 10:01:59 -0400

I would like to thank each and every one of you for the advice you've given. I have and will continue to read and reflect on what is written here. There is a lot of wisdom to be found simply by asking the right people. Thank you all for your time and online mentorship.

Response by Cpl Ray Fernandez made Nov 1 at 2013 7:26 PM

Cpl Ray Fernandez — Fri, 01 Nov 2013 19:26:20 -0400

Never mistake education with experience. Education will let you know how to do things, but experience will tell teach you when and what the best way to do something is. I can tell that you have a strong desire to do well by your willingness to ask for advice, also find other leaders that you find to be effective and emulate the traits that you find to work best, and also look for the traits that you see that do not work and strive to avoid those traits.

Response by Col Ken Frantz made Nov 1 at 2013 8:31 PM

Col Ken Frantz — Fri, 01 Nov 2013 20:31:01 -0400

Officers must be confident in their abilities and competent in their occupational field and above all, a leader!

That's easily said, but extremely demanding no matter where you've served for two months or two decades.

Response by SFC Randy Robinson made Nov 1 at 2013 11:51 PM

SFC Randy Robinson — Fri, 01 Nov 2013 23:51:55 -0400

Listen to your NCO's allow yourself to learn from NCO's and don't be political your OER should be being a leader of troops not kissing your raters butt.

Response by SrA Donald Jewell made Nov 2 at 2013 7:22 PM

SrA Donald Jewell — Sat, 02 Nov 2013 19:22:39 -0400

Education is for a perfect world and it needs to be tweaked with reality which is not perfect.

Response by CMC Robert Young made Nov 4 at 2013 3:33 PM

CMC Robert Young — Mon, 04 Nov 2013 15:33:43 -0500

Sir, seek out your senior NCOs, and trust them with your concerns. They are in the business of making things happen, and they should be a wealth of knowledge. Solid NCOs will help you negotiate your challenges. Leadership is about relationships. You must begin to build positive relationships day one up and down the chain of command. Don't ever confuse popularity with respect. Too much of one and not enough of the other will doom you as a leader.

Response by SSG Zachery Mitchell made Nov 5 at 2013 6:39 PM

SSG Zachery Mitchell — Tue, 05 Nov 2013 18:39:17 -0500

I might be a little bit biased but listen to the NCOs you work with. The NCOs are the standard bearers and most of the NCOs you'll work with have been in for a decent amount of time. As a 2LT you'll probably be put on a lot of range details and other taskings with a Senior NCO. Listen to them and don't try to undermine everything they say. I've seen a lot of new 2LTs that try to reinvent the wheel with some of the taskings they are given instead of just listening to the NCOs they are tasked to work with that know the tried and true methods of doing stuff.

Response by SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 7 at 2013 2:21 PM

SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 07 Nov 2013 14:21:20 -0500

This has probably already been stated elsewhere; but listen
to everything from everywhere. You are
going to be surrounded by expertise; but the fight is ever evolving and
age/experience does not guarantee a best course of action. Use your head and apply logic to the
information you are gaining. That logic
may result in following the recommendations you receive ninety percent of the
time; but there will always be instances where angle and perspective demand
your deviance.

Response by SCPO David Lockwood made Nov 7 at 2013 2:30 PM

SCPO David Lockwood — Thu, 07 Nov 2013 14:30:19 -0500

Listen to your Chief. He won't steer you wrong.

Response by SGT Thomas Sullivan made Nov 12 at 2013 11:00 AM

SGT Thomas Sullivan — Tue, 12 Nov 2013 11:00:29 -0500

Best advice I could ever give a fresh O-1: Volunteer to give up your commission for about 3 years to be an lower enlisted so you know what is is your leading. After that, take your commission back and proceed to be a kick ass officer. (I dont even know if an officer could actually do that, but it would be awesome)

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 13 at 2013 9:49 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 13 Nov 2013 21:49:30 -0500

Listen to your NCO's

Response by SGT Chris Birkinbine made Nov 17 at 2013 1:49 AM

SGT Chris Birkinbine — Sun, 17 Nov 2013 01:49:41 -0500

Respect. Obviously to those that outrank you, but also do those you command, down to the lowest ranking Private. Respect them for who they are, and respect them for what they can achieve. it is something we can do with a whole lot more of in the world, and in the military.

Obviously disciplinary actions need to occur when necessary, and I do not suggest otherwise.

Response by CH (CPT) Heather Davis made Nov 17 at 2013 10:43 AM

CH (CPT) Heather Davis — Sun, 17 Nov 2013 10:43:31 -0500

Guard your primary relationships, the Military is all about relationships. Your early years establish your branding an how others view you. It is vital to have humility and gleam from those that are around you.

When you make rank it is not to power over others, remember where you started from and help others that are coming behind you. Stand on regulation and be a team player.

Response by MSgt Francisca Benjamin made Nov 17 at 2013 6:51 PM

MSgt Francisca Benjamin — Sun, 17 Nov 2013 18:51:46 -0500

Seek out a Senior NCO to mentor him/her. Don't come in thinking because you are an officer you have know everything or have authourity because you really don't. Your NCOs can make your first few years easy or hard. You choose

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2013 7:40 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 17 Nov 2013 19:40:39 -0500

Noone else we manage or care about your career... So make sure you do! Make sure OMPF is always up to date, get your DA Photo when you get promoted and always fight for the jobs you want. Do the right thing even if your peers do not, and follow BE, KNOW, DO! Last remeber the 5 F's (Family, Faith, Fun, Fitness, and Finances)!!

Response by MSgt Randel "Chico" Aday made Nov 18 at 2013 12:02 AM

MSgt Randel "Chico" Aday — Mon, 18 Nov 2013 00:02:12 -0500

Everyone has said it over and over again and can't express anything different. As a MSgt in charge of Civil Engineering Production Management, Quality Assurance Administrator and Ancillary Training Instructor, our commander gave me all the new Lt's that came into the Squadron for 3 months. He told them that they worked for me, and that I will answer and evaluate each Lt and provide feedback to the Commander. Each and every Lt was thankful for the training and experience that I provided and had the knowledge what enlisted personnel do. This gave them the respect deserving to the Enlisted Corps and a much proficient Squadron.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2013 8:09 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 Nov 2013 08:09:10 -0500

Honestly, the best advice I could give a Junior Officer is:

Believe in themselves

Instill trust in your NCOs

Know that your NCOs do NOT know everything but give them the opportunity to find the answer for you

Push your soldiers(or whatever branch you're in)

Establish that fine line of duty and responsibility between yourself and your Senior NCO and keep that line of communication completely OPEN

Response by SPC William Wambolt made Nov 21 at 2013 2:40 PM

SPC William Wambolt — Thu, 21 Nov 2013 14:40:39 -0500

Listen to all your NCO"s (Junior and Senior). Chances are many of these people have more experience and actual time in service than you. Most of all DON'T let those bars go to your head!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2013 2:18 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 23 Nov 2013 02:18:22 -0500

Find Good Mentors... It is the responsibility of the mentee seek out mentoring relationships. Select a few (1 or 2) possible mentors. They don't have to be a specific rank. Find some one who has been successful in the areas that you want to be successful in and start creating a relationship with that person. Focus on Values, and Leadership Traits NOT career progression (fast tracking)... The Values and Leadership traits you gain now will set the tone for your future. Pick them wisely.

Response by Lt Col Luis A. Rojas made Nov 23 at 2013 1:37 PM

Lt Col Luis A. Rojas — Sat, 23 Nov 2013 13:37:30 -0500

Know how to balance between accomplishing the "Mission" and taking care of your "People"; both are equally important, can't have one and not the other. Taking care of people will help ensure the mission is accomplished.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 26 at 2013 1:08 AM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 26 Nov 2013 01:08:14 -0500

Be patient with the rude person who may not outwardly convey disrespect but none the less, it is there. If you show respect to senior NCOs, the younger troops will have more trust for you.

I worked only with pilots, but being myself, being nice and competent I received a lot of compliments. One crew member, a Capt, was telling me about his father the General and the Colonel behind him rolled his eyes. Still, I gave the Capt his rank deserved and let the details work themselves out in the background.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 26 at 2013 1:08 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 26 Nov 2013 01:08:41 -0500

LT,

Thought I recognized your picture. I remember sitting in AIT as a pair of Junior Soldiers in the same class. Very happy to see you moving up in your Army Career. Although I am not an officer I would say the best advice I could give is remain fair, Be approachable, and maintain a standard that may be hard to achieve but, is still achievable. None the less, Continue to work hard and you will accomplish whatever goals are put forth by the leaders above you. Good Luck to you in your Officer path and who know maybe one day soon Ill be making the jump to the other side of the pond too.

V/R

SPC Corwin

Response by SPC Gary Basom made Nov 26 at 2013 3:14 PM

SPC Gary Basom — Tue, 26 Nov 2013 15:14:42 -0500

The welfare and care of your men, award those who show leadership potential, consider the advice and SOP of your NCOs and know that work

and training has it's limits.

Response by PO3 Brenton Holbrook made Nov 26 at 2013 3:26 PM

PO3 Brenton Holbrook — Tue, 26 Nov 2013 15:26:56 -0500

Sir, respectfully may I suggest from the point of view of a lower enlisted to always respect your guys all the way down to E1 because they are doing the majority of the work assigned to you to make sure it gets done, if that makes sense? Again, from the point of view of the lower enlisted, respect means everything. While we as enlisted are required to show respect to Senior NCOs and Officers, the opposite is not the same and showing respect in the other direction goes a long way when you have to ask one of your guys to stay behind an extra hour or two. He has a home to go to as well, and he also has a family and kids in many cases, but the major difference is that he will no doubt do it happily and help you out if everyone is on the same level (rank excluded, obviously) rather than grumble about it to his superiors for the next week because he wasn't able to eat dinner with his family. Now, this is the part where I thank you for taking the time to stoop down and ask for advice humbly when I honestly can't say the same for a lot of Officers that I have had the privilege to know. Have a great day!

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 26 at 2013 9:04 PM

Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 26 Nov 2013 21:04:47 -0500

1. Trust, but verify. 2. Sometimes, you learn a lot more from poor examples than good ones. 3. Know what's in the book before you decide to throw it out. 4. If you really want to know who runs things, find out who pays the bill. 5. Inter-service rivalry is fine, expected, and neccessary; holding other branches or other services in contempt is not. 6. Your SGM / SEL does NOT know everything. (sorry guys) 7. Neither does your Colonel. 8. And neither do you. 9. Leadership is a muscle, you must exercise it. 10. Leadership and command overlap, but they are not the same thing.

Response by A1C Edward Downey made Nov 28 at 2013 3:04 AM

A1C Edward Downey — Thu, 28 Nov 2013 03:04:46 -0500

Take advantage of every self improvement program they have. Take your schooling seriously. Don't spend unless you have to. and most important, never lose touch with the understanding that people are humans, they live, love and bleed like you and I. Compassion and empathy go a long way. never blindly follow orders, if it doesn't feel right, it probably isn't. ask your self, would you have this done to you or your family??

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made Nov 30 at 2013 1:24 PM

SSG (ret) William Martin — Sat, 30 Nov 2013 13:24:37 -0500

Some more advice for a Jr. Officer is to find his NCO's and soldier's strongest skills or talents and use that for the best of the platoon without deviating from normal operations. For example, if SGT Joe Snuffy is good at briefing and organizing, use him to conduct classes. If SPC Marry Snuffy is a Microsoft Office expert, use her in everyday operation which involve the computer.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 3 at 2013 12:04 AM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 03 Dec 2013 00:04:57 -0500

Below are two items that would be beneficial for any 'new' LT to read (they are for USAF - but the ideas presented can be applied to any branch.

Heirpower!

Eight Basic Habits of Exceptionally Powerful Lieutenants

Bob Vásquez.

Air University Press

131 West Shumacher Avenue

Maxwell AFB AL 36112-6615

http://aupress.maxwell.af.mil

Commanding an Air Force Squadron in the Twenty-First Century

A Practical Guide of Tips and Techniques for Today’s Squadron Commander

JEFFRY F. SMITH

Lieutenant Colonel, USAF

Air University Press

Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama

August 2003

The Air University 404 Page

The AU Public Web SiteIs going through major updates and changes. We thank you in advance for using the information below for contact information.AU Transcripts
CCAF Transcripts: Commercial (334) 64...

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 6 at 2013 11:32 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 06 Dec 2013 11:32:22 -0500

Take advantage of schooling opportunities to make yourself more marketable for when your military career is over.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 7 at 2013 10:33 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 07 Dec 2013 22:33:50 -0500

The hard way is nearly always the right way. You will have thirty voices in your ear trying to convince you to take the easy way, but don't do it. You will know what the right solution is when you see it. Listen to your gut and don't cave in to the pressure of not wanting your guys to hate your guts. If you take the easy way back from an objective, someone is going to get blown up. Count on it.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 7 at 2013 11:11 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 07 Dec 2013 23:11:02 -0500

When working for someone from another branch always have a plan of how you can best support them, that way you don't end up doing what think you do you can do what you do best.

If you find someone you like to work for work for them as long as you can and keep tabs on them.

If you want to PCS somewhere contact that unit and see if they will request you, dealing with branch is a crap shoot.

Go after jobs you like, you will do better in them.

Take care of yourself and your family

Have fun, if you can't enjoy yourself you're doing it wrong.

Response by 1SG Barry Branham made Dec 8 at 2013 12:10 AM

1SG Barry Branham — Sun, 08 Dec 2013 00:10:28 -0500

Seek advice from the NCO ranks. Don't just assume you are better than your soldiers because even a private may have a usable suggestion. However a real leader will listen to the people around them that has the experience and will take any advise offered and be thankful for any input.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 8 at 2013 12:28 AM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 08 Dec 2013 00:28:29 -0500

I look at Senior NCOs as defacto officers with a lot of experience. A young LT should be mindful that today's military is better educated and more disciplined, I think largely because of the volunteer service.

My experience were most LTs were complimentary and if they got out of line usually a Senior Officer would set the situation straight.

Response by LtCol Dann Chesnut made Dec 16 at 2013 4:47 PM

LtCol Dann Chesnut — Mon, 16 Dec 2013 16:47:49 -0500

1st: Don't see yourself as a "Junior" officer. As a commissioned officer, you have responsibilities, none of which are diminished due to being "not a senior" officer. Take the responsibility seriously from the start.

2nd: Everyone has "warts"; that is, everyone from subordinates, to peers, to senior to you have some aspect about them that you would change if you could. Get used to this, remember that you have "warts" too, and try to minimize yours.

3rd: Become familiar with, and understand all of Murphy's laws.

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 18 at 2013 3:37 PM

GySgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 Dec 2013 15:37:49 -0500

Rely on the experiences and knowledge of the men who have done what you have not. The NCO's and SNCO's are there to provide guidance like how they have been all through training (Marine Officers are made by Marine SNCO's at OCS). Observe the Officers appointed over you and empower the SNCO's and NCO's to handle the business while you maintain situational awareness.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 3 at 2014 3:33 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 03 Jan 2014 03:33:16 -0500

The best advice I could ever give you Sir is to listen to your NCOs. They have a lot of valuable experience and most are more than willing to share it.

Response by SSG Jeffrey Spencer made Jan 9 at 2014 3:12 PM

SSG Jeffrey Spencer — Thu, 09 Jan 2014 15:12:53 -0500

Listen and learn from your NCOs.

Response by SFC James Baber made Jan 11 at 2014 10:28 PM

SFC James Baber — Sat, 11 Jan 2014 22:28:45 -0500

I think this is a good thread for those we are trying to get to join can see the substance of some things we discuss between us as current and former military, soft spoken as well as informational and mentoring types of postings.

We also have fun at times while remaining professional.

Response by SSG Joe Jordan made Jan 18 at 2014 7:39 PM

SSG Joe Jordan — Sat, 18 Jan 2014 19:39:44 -0500

The best thing a junior officer could do is to listen to the senior NCO's who have the knowledge, experience and training. Senior NCO's hold many duty positions as they grow in rank, as do officers, but one thing I've learned is to mold an officer into a better leader. Unfortunately, some of the junior officers that I've worked with don't want to listen and do their own thing, regardless of what insight a seasoned senior NCO might have to say.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 30 at 2014 5:00 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 30 Jan 2014 05:00:50 -0500

As a young enlisted soldier, the best advice I could give would be to make sure your soldiers are taken care of. Generally NCO's do a pretty good job of this but as a joe I know when I notice an Lt taking the extra step to make sure his soldiers are getting chow, sleep, or what have you, It motivates you to work harder and at a higher caliber level.
Taking care of your soldiers will in turn take care of yourself.

Response by LtCol Dann Chesnut made Jan 30 at 2014 1:25 PM

LtCol Dann Chesnut — Thu, 30 Jan 2014 13:25:19 -0500

I have always thought that the term "Junior Officer" was very distasteful. The Marine Corps refer to 01 - 03's as "Company Grade Officers". While this term is a great deal better, neither properly address these officers. These officers are those that actively lead enlisted soldiers in their mission(s). They are the 1st line officer leadership and are often the only officers that are seen to be actively involved at the point or leading edge of activities. So, my advice includes: Ignore the term, and concentrate of the job.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 2 at 2014 8:46 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 02 Feb 2014 20:46:17 -0500

I can speak to my LT time at Ft. Campbell and what I would tell you is spend time learning your job. There is so much to learn from your NCOs and Soldiers, from your peers, and from senior officers that it is easy to become confused on what the "hard right" and "easy wrong" are. Your moral compass will determine the what you take to heart, but all of these skills you will need as a more seasoned company grade officer and as a field grade.

Response by MAJ John Drake made Feb 7 at 2014 6:04 PM

MAJ John Drake — Fri, 07 Feb 2014 18:04:24 -0500

Always remember that a soldier is not a piece of equipment. He has needs, wants, feelings and a life outside of his uniform.

Don't mess up his chow, his mail or screw with his free time.

Train to standard, not to time.

Know the difference between "Checking" and "Inspecting".

On Order is NOT a status.

Soldiers only do those thing which you check. Do not fail to follow-up after you delegate.

Be beyond reproach in your professional and personal conduct and demeanor.

Respect for the RANK is given. Respect and trust for the man wearing it is earned every second of every day.

Never make threats or promises that you don't have the means or authority to keep.

As a PL use your 1SG as your sounding board...He has the most experience in the company and is not in your rating chain. As a Commander use the BN CSM...for the same reasons.

The Army is a Team. Take responsibility for team failures. Give credit for team accomplishments. "I" never accomplished anything in the Army, but "I" failed many times.

An officer is a manager. Good managers know how to use the experience of those assigned to him to complete the mission in the most effective way. Incorperate your NCOs in all phases of your planning, prep and execution.

Let a Private teach you something everytime the opportunity avails. Even if you know how to do it. You'll be surprised....one way or the other...what you will learn.

Take care of soldiers because YOU are there for THEM. The are not there for you, as a training aid.

And last but not least, have a relationship with your PSG, where behind closed doors, you are on a level playing field and candid communication is expected. First names, cursing, finger pointing, back slapping, hilarity and real problem solving happens there, because once you step in front of that element/unit, you are one; unified and unflappable in leadership.

Response by COL Jason Smallfield, PMP, CFM, CM made Feb 9 at 2014 8:26 PM

COL Jason Smallfield, PMP, CFM, CM — Sun, 09 Feb 2014 20:26:38 -0500

It boils down to character, committment, and competence (in this order of priority). Character is non negotiable and should have been instilled into an officer by his/her parents. Those who do not have character are or should be quickly weeded out. Committment comes from within an officer and can be answered by the question "do you have a job, a career, or a calling?". The difference is the amount of passion that an officer will bring on a daily basis. I prefer an officer who thinks being an officer is a calling but I can find uses for an officer who thinks it is a job. Finally, there is competence. This is gained through time and experience so I am not initially concerned that an officer does not have this. It is my job as the officer's leader to enable competence in the officer through training, education, and experience. The mistake that I see many junior officers make is they invert these three things or they believe that character is negotiable.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2014 11:18 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 12 Feb 2014 23:18:41 -0500

Your Soldiers and NCOs don't work for you. You work for them! If you perform your duties to ensure they are successful (provide common sense leadership, resources, realistic training, and provide and deflect positive feedback) they will always ensure the mission is accomplished.

Response by SSG Gerhard S. made Feb 21 at 2014 9:49 AM

SSG Gerhard S. — Fri, 21 Feb 2014 09:49:51 -0500

Carefully and diligently consider the advice of your experienced NCO's before making critical decisions.

Response by MAJ Genghis Kuo made Feb 26 at 2014 9:14 PM

MAJ Genghis Kuo — Wed, 26 Feb 2014 21:14:42 -0500

1. Respect: Respect your NCOs for their experience. Respect your superiors (obviously). And strive to respect everyone since it's an Army Value

2. Communication: Communicate your intent to your subordinates. Communicate your plan and actions to your superiors. And it never hurts to communicate with your peers to get their opinions.

3. Teamwork: Good communication is key to teamwork. Avoid adverbial relationships. Don't burn bridges because you might have repair and cross them later.

4. Presence: A good leader is present with his troops. Helps with #2 and #3.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 6 at 2014 10:06 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 06 Mar 2014 22:06:46 -0500

The foundation you lay now will support you later or bury you.

Response by Cpl David Hall made Mar 6 at 2014 10:28 PM

Cpl David Hall — Thu, 06 Mar 2014 22:28:38 -0500

I see it posted throughout this thread Capt. Your NCO's make you or break you.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 6 at 2014 10:30 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 06 Mar 2014 22:30:08 -0500

best advise to give is trust your nco's they been doing the job long enough and have experince. Take care of the soldiers and the wont fail you.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 10 at 2014 1:35 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 10 Mar 2014 01:35:08 -0400

Take advice of those junior soldiers who have been in a while. Just because they don't have stripes on there chest, doesn't mean they don't have experience and sound advice. Being a SPC who has been in for 5+ years, this is the hardest obstacle that I have encountered. 2LTs and 1LTs not listening to their soldiers. Remember you as officers are leading them to war and if their voice isn't heard as well, what makes you think those junior enlisted will hear yours.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 18 at 2014 10:47 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 18 Mar 2014 22:47:57 -0400

Well Sir, in this day and age you have to tread lightly and watch your back. We live in the world of information; so read about what your Soldiers job is and educate yourself. Evaluate and learn who to listen to. Rank does not make someone knowledgeable.
You are stationed at a pretty high speed installation so you should find a great deal of experienced Leaders to learn from. Never judge the Military from an assignment. Most of all have fun, explore, and enjoy yourself!

Response by SGT Jennifer Wallace made Mar 18 at 2014 10:50 PM

SGT Jennifer Wallace — Tue, 18 Mar 2014 22:50:23 -0400

Listen and learn from your NCO's they can teach you a lot

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 19 at 2014 9:38 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 19 Mar 2014 21:38:33 -0400

I'm coming over from the enlisted side, so the hardest thing I have had to learn is to not do everything myself. It has taken me almost two years in this position, but I have finally learned the fine art of delegating things that I don't have time to accomplish myself. Sub hand receipts and appointment memos have become my best friends.

Response by SPC Charles Brown made Mar 21 at 2014 3:53 PM

SPC Charles Brown — Fri, 21 Mar 2014 15:53:53 -0400

Shut up, listen to your senior enlisted, and learn. It could just save your life and the lives of those who serve under you.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2014 9:35 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 01 Apr 2014 21:35:55 -0400

Be damned sure you know what direction north is, and the general cardinal direction to your destination.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2014 4:33 AM

CSM Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 08 Apr 2014 04:33:58 -0400

Make a decision and stick to if it needs to be corrected do it but the decision needs to be made.

Response by MSG Floyd Williams made Apr 26 at 2014 6:01 PM

MSG Floyd Williams — Sat, 26 Apr 2014 18:01:58 -0400

1LT Brian B....Learn from your experience NCO's and lower Enlisted men and women who have been on deployments.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 25 at 2015 10:15 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 25 Jan 2015 10:15:15 -0500

Reading through the responses to your question, it seems that most of the advice would serve officers at most ranks quite well. My suggestions below are focused towards officers in general, not just new lieutenants.

Three Major Points

1. Integrity. Never compromise it. Hold others to the same standard.

2. Be tactically/operationally/strategically and technically proficient. No one respects incompetence.

3. Figure out what your boss and your boss’s boss think/value/say are the most important priorities, and focus on these. These should be clear in your boss’ and your boss’ boss’ OER Support Form and in the unit mission statement.

Other Points

1. When in charge, be in charge. You are responsible. Your chain of command believes you are in charge and responsible, and you are. Remember that, as a platoon leader or company executive officer or company commander, after your first day on the job, you’ll generally have more experience doing your job than anyone else in your platoon/company. Do your job. Note you’ll rarely have more experience doing one of your subordinates’ jobs than they have, so learn from them, and trust (and verify) that they know how to do their jobs. Remember that the training you have is valuable. Look to others to learn more. For officer mentors, look at your fellow platoon leaders, company executive officer, company commander--this group has a wealth of experience doing your job.

2. Don’t lose the Army’s equipment and make sure the Army’s equipment works. Officers are responsible for property accountability and maintenance. Junior officers will spend an inordinate amount of time inventorying equipment, because lieutenants and captains are assigned responsibility for almost all of the Army’s equipment. Failure to maintain proper accountability of property (especially sensitive items) is a really quick way to get fired and lose a lot of money (those horror stories of multi-million dollar reports-of-survey or whatever they are called these days aren’t just stories; don’t go to jail or lose your life savings because you were too lazy to take property accountability seriously). Learn the right way to conduct equipment inventories and manage hand receipts, sub-hand-receipts, and shortage annexes (yes, there is a right way). If maintaining property accountability isn’t one of your key tasks as a company grade officer, you’re probably doing something wrong, or stuck on staff. If as a company grade officer you aren’t focused on maintenance, I’d guess there’s a pretty good likelihood that your equipment doesn’t work like it is supposed to (or you’re stuck on staff).

3. Be a team player. Acknowledge and celebrate the effort of others. You will rarely do anything of significance alone. Take responsibility when things go wrong; you are, after all, responsible, and if something goes wrong, it is actually probably your fault. I’ve observed that most people respect someone who is confident enough to admit that they’ve made a mistake and be willing to learn from making a mistake. Volunteer for the jobs no one else wants. Don’t be afraid to do some actual “muddy boots” work with your Soldiers once in a while.

4. Score a 300 on your APFT. It is hard for an out of shape officer to be tactically and technically proficient, and you start at a “respect deficit” if you are out of shape. And the APFT is not that hard.

5. Never fail height/weight standards. It is hard for an officer who fails height/weight standards to be tactically and technically proficient. You start at a “respect deficit” if you bust tape. Best advice: always be below your screening weight.

6. Counsel your subordinates, including everyone you rate and senior rate. Do this formally using the forms the Army has given us. Do this monthly if possible, and at a minimum at the interval required by regulation. Put counseling on the training calendar, and protect it like you’d protect any other important event. Use counseling to set goals, review the performance of your subordinates, and solicit feedback on your own performance. Write the evaluations you are responsible for writing yourself, and solicit the input of those you rate and senior rate before and as you do so. Make subordinates do the same. Encourage your superiors to prioritize counseling (and don’t get too bitter when you realize that a lot of senior leaders think counseling is just something their subordinates are supposed to do).

7. Keep your personal life in order. Understand work-life balance. Live within your means. Remember your personal choices are likely to have an impact on your ability to do your job. Many of the things that can derail an officer in this regard are well out of individual’s control. However, many more of the things of this nature are well within an individual’s control. This probably applies more to more senior officers who have had more opportunity to screw up their personal life, but it applies to junior officers as well.

8. Be a high contribution, low maintenance officer. I’ve seen a two-by-two matrix of how officers can be characterized: high contribution, high maintenance; high contribution, low maintenance; low contribution, high maintenance; low contribution, low maintenance. Figuring out what constitutes a high or low contribution and high or low maintenance in a unit can be difficult, but can generally be understood by figuring out what your boss and your boss’ boss think are important. It is quite easy to figure out where you want to be on this matrix: high contribution, low maintenance. Leaders will tolerate a high contribution, high maintenance officer because these types perform. The Army tolerates the low contribution, low maintenance types to a point, which these days is coming earlier and earlier as the Army has stopped promoting absolutely everyone from O-1 to O-2 to O-3 to O-4 to O-5 as it has over the last ten years or so. Low contribution, high maintenance types just don’t make it anymore.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jul 1 at 2015 1:49 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Wed, 01 Jul 2015 13:49:48 -0400

The basic building blocks to a good unit is understanding the human needs: respect, compassion, fairness, honesty, and having fun. Have a good relationship with the NCOs and develop the unit culture you see fit. Empower the NCO's to do their jobs. Everyone has a right to stop operations because of a high risk. Listen to the unit for good suggestions, we don't want to curtail initiative.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Aug 22 at 2015 1:10 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 13:10:14 -0400

You must be technically and tactically proficient. Start thinking about your leadership philosophy.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Aug 26 at 2015 1:12 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Wed, 26 Aug 2015 13:12:36 -0400

I had a PL SGT who was a Tanker God but he was stuck at E-6. I went and saw the CSM about this matter. My PL SGT had this scared look on his face when I told him the CSM wanted to see him. In a few months he was promoted.

Use your TLPs, memorize the OPORD format, and backwards plan. For complex operations relax and visualize operations, as you may have holes in the plan.

Look at your commander's command philosophy and start working on yours. The first thing I did as a commander was establishing the culture that will produce a successful organization. I will get off the soap box now.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2015 2:40 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 26 Aug 2015 14:40:35 -0400

Speaking as a Squad Leader. I have to say learn from your NCO's. they have a good grasp on what's going on and are willing to make changes to accommodate your way of doing things, but are stubborn enough to tell you when an idea is just idiotic.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Aug 29 at 2015 8:24 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sat, 29 Aug 2015 20:24:15 -0400

If you make a joke about the BN CO, make sure he is not behind you.

Response by PFC Tuan Trang made Aug 29 at 2015 8:32 PM

PFC Tuan Trang — Sat, 29 Aug 2015 20:32:53 -0400

Learn what you can, Study what you need.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Sep 1 at 2015 1:39 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Tue, 01 Sep 2015 13:39:33 -0400

Don't piss off the old men on the golf course because they can be generals.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 3 at 2016 4:08 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 03 Jan 2016 16:08:01 -0500

Lessons I learned as an Officer:

1. Being unfairly 'relieved- for- cause' as a 1LT is not the end of the world especially if you give a fair and written rebuttal to your situation. I was relieved as S1 for not making the daily battle update briefs. I had no S1 PAC nco (he was on the main post and no cell phone coms either) and nobody was with me (not even the S4) at the CTCP at Yakima training range in 2002. The Bn XO said not to worry and he would inform the battalion commander and yet I had nobody there to give me a ride nor go in my place and the battalion commander fired me anyways. I had gotten screwed said my fomer company commander (at the time an Xo for an MP BN). My documentation did not prevent me from being approved for CPT by the Army Promotion board in 2003. I took my promotion delay letter for 3 years delay on taking my 0-3.

2. If you are in the ARNG: if you make 0-3 on the promotion board and you can't get promoted in your unit due to politics or no slots and you want your rank now instead of later, don't take the promotion delay letter from HRC but leave the unit and go into the IRR get your 0-3/CPT and go back in the ARNG or go in the USAR and find a slot.

3. Acting battalion Commander/Major can't be your Senior rater on an OER.This happened to me. The Brigade G3 made him rewrite it as the rater and write it more fairly than it was originally and the G3 became the Senior Rater.

4. Get your rater and senior rater's support form and try to see where you need to be with schools or experience to work on his job experience and qualifications and get promoted.

5. Be physically fit and maintain a 290+ or 300 on your apft. I was not the best officer in the past but my APFT score overcame alot of discrimination. When a 40 something officer could run under 14 minutes and go over the max on pushups and situps,it made the commanders think differently of me. Just my wisdom as an older soldier.

I look forward to reading your comments so I can continue to grow as well.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 8 at 2016 11:18 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 08 Jan 2016 23:18:07 -0500

1. Do not worry about looking lost or dumb before others. As a lieutenant, you can afford that. Ask the questions. Worry about actually being lost or poor judgement. It could harm others, and be a career killer. Learn, Seek advice, take action.
2. Focus on learning and gaining experience for the next higher rank, not for your current one. Take on different positions, but do not take the path of least resistance!
3. Take time to help others outside your area of responsibility. It is a small Army!
4. Develop your team. Push them up. Get rid of the dead weight within the team.
5. Keep track of your accomplishments. If there is nothing to track, you either are not doing enough or need to move on somewhere else.
5. Find mentors. The more, the merrier. Find also a personal counselor outside your unit.
6. Read on a variety of subjects. Audiobooks are great, too!

There is no single best advice, other than the Great Commandment. I hope this is of help. God bless!

Response by SSgt Jim Gilmore made Jan 8 at 2016 11:26 PM

SSgt Jim Gilmore — Fri, 08 Jan 2016 23:26:02 -0500

Open your mind, close your mouth and listen to those who know from experience. Ask questions. The only stupid question is one not asked. Most of all, trust your NCOs.

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Apr 1 at 2017 7:31 AM

SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth — Sat, 01 Apr 2017 07:31:50 -0400

Treat your underlings like you would want to be treated, listen to the NCO's under your command.

Response by SSG Daniel Morales made Jun 29 at 2017 9:18 PM

SSG Daniel Morales — Thu, 29 Jun 2017 21:18:14 -0400

Listen to your NCO's

Response by SFC Shannon Meloy made Oct 15 at 2017 10:02 PM

SFC Shannon Meloy — Sun, 15 Oct 2017 22:02:31 -0400

Slow the hell down watching and listening because you don't know it all

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 15 at 2017 10:54 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 15 Oct 2017 22:54:24 -0400

I would rather you do 100 things a day and mess up 10 than do 10 things a day perfectly. Perfection is the enemy of good.

Response by CW4 Craig Urban made May 26 at 2019 11:18 PM

CW4 Craig Urban — Sun, 26 May 2019 23:18:50 -0400

Listen to your NCO's and senior warrants