Commentary

I have proudly served the U.S. Army and the American people as an Army officer for 34 years. Within those years I have raised a wonderful family, met courageous and inspiring people, and gained personal and professional fulfillment from this profession.

Though World War I is historically called “The Great War,” its stories, lessons and anniversaries are often overlooked or forgotten — left in the shadows of other more “glorious” or more recent wars.

There was a point in my life when I didn’t see a future, but I found comfort through different base agencies. Adapting to our military lifestyle is not just difficult for our significant others and children, but also for those of us who joined.

During our military careers, we are often reminded of how important it is to be a good leader. We read articles and attend seminars to help us strengthen our leadership abilities. Although I do feel that being a good leader is pertinent to everyone, I believe there is one subject that falls in the shadows of the word “leadership.”

I have spent more than a year telling the story of our nation’s wounded warriors as I followed their transport from the mountains of Afghanistan to their medical care at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany.

No matter what my deployed military mission, I conduct the same checklist the night prior. Every single time.

The Air Force has provided mission, vision and priorities. Transforming vision into executable policy requires charismatic, energetic, inspirational yet humble leaders focused on Airmen and the mission. It is important to remember that being a leader is not tied to rank or position and it’s not about rewards. Leadership is about taking care of the people who complete the mission.