What’s the toughest decision you’ve ever had to make as a Commander (or leader)?

MAJ (Join to see) I commanded two companies, a battalion, and three brigades, so to pull out anyone tough decision is like looking for a needle in a haystack after 37 years. Like you my first command was as a 1LT and there is nothing like hopping into the frying pan right out of the gate in your officer career. One of the many tough decisions I had to make was going head-to-head with General Officer at Mobilization (knowing that if I lost I could get relieved of my command or some type of Administrative discipline), but I knew in my heart I was right and I got my ducks all lined up and went against him head on and in the end I won the tug of war with GO. I was right and my other GO's that knew me came to my side and supported my decision. It was a calculated risk, but I took as every good leader should when they have all of their stuff together in one hand bag (duffle bag). Make sure before you go against your superior you have your stuff together (dress right dress). Good luck my friend and there are many of us you can call on, if you need us Michael! Been there and got the T-Shirt!

Great question. So many decisions over almost 27 years active duty. Mine was probably pulling my retirement papers after the 9-11 attacks. I couldn’t see myself retiring under those conditions. I retired 6 years later.



SGT Philip Roncari Capt Dwayne Conyers CW5 Jack Cardwell SFC Craig Dalen MSgt Danny Hope SGT Jim A. SSG Trust Palmer COL Mikel J. Burroughs SFC (Join to see) TSgt Joe C. SFC A.M. Drake SGT John " Mac " McConnell TSgt Dawn Premock SGT Damaso V Santana LTC Stephen C. SFC (Join to see)Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth SFC George Smith SSgt (Join to see) SGM David W. Carr LOM, DMSM MP SGT

Every damn time I had to pick one of my people to go on point during deployments.