Veterans Day

In honor of Veterans Day tomorrow, I changed my profile picture. This picture is a bit older, it was taken in 2008. I am with my husband and this shot was taken after I took the guideon (flag) of my troop. In Army tradition, the guideon is given to the Troop Commander by the either the battalion or brigade commander, depending upon the relationship of the troop. This guideon was given to my by the brigade commander.

I was given the opportunity to lead some fine troopers. The unit that I commanded for 19 months was Headquarters and Headquarters Troop of the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division out of Fort Hood, Texas. I was lucky to have commanded a great organization with great leaders. Sometimes the task of leading a troop (mine was over 300 Soldiers) can be daunting, exciting, and stressful; but its the best job in the Army. I was truly lucky that my previous boss gave me the opportunity to take on the task of leading this unit. I trained with this unit, both at Fort Hood and at the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, CA as well as leading this unit into combat. I am so thankful that everyone of my troopers came home from our last deployment this past February alive.

To all the veterans who are serving and to those that have served, THANK YOU!

A special thanks to my father, who as a non-commissioned officer in the Army when I was a child. My father set the example, showed me the way and told me to never settle for less than the best. He told me to demand the best from your subordinates everyday, but make sure they know that you will take care of them. When you have gained their trust and confidence a Soldier will go to hell and back for you. I was lucky that my dad showed me the example of serving a higher purpose than myself. I was lucky that he told me that true leaders lead from the front. Thanks dad!