Press Release
☷Fort McCoy Garrison commander Regimentals — place service over self
U.S. Army ( By Press Release office)
Mar 10,2024
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Col . Stephen Messenger , the Garrison Commander at Fort McCoy , had a casual chat with the workforce members at the installation on Jan . 25 , 2024 . He talked about the garrison , leadership , and other topics during a town hall discussion . Messenger held two sessions to address current garrison issues and provide insight on the future of the garrison . Photo credit: Scott T . Sturkol , Fort McCoy Public Affairs Office . One of the reasons I love leadership is that it ' s a team effort with a collective goal . In the military , that goal is national security and being ready for combat if necessary . It ' s a profession built on selfless service , where people are willing to give up their lives to support and defend the United States and our great nation . But one thing that bothers me about the military , and many other organizations , is that it ' s very focused on promotions . There ' s a culture of "move up or get out , " which sometimes leads to unhealthy competition among individuals in a unit . It ' s important to find a balance between organizational success and individual achievement . In the novel "Once an Eagle" by Anton Myrer , the main character , Sam Damon , is a career Army Soldier who exemplifies servant leadership . He always puts the goals of the organization and the well - being of his unit and people above his own career and personal interests . During World War I , he repeatedly puts his life on the line to help other forces gain an advantage . As an officer between the wars , Sam sets high standards and rigorous training for himself and his Soldiers in preparation for the next battle . He ' s not afraid to speak his mind , even if it ' s unpopular , and provides honest assessments to his superiors . Through his selflessness and dedication , he achieves both organizational and personal success , earning the unwavering loyalty of his Soldiers . Courtney Massengale , a character with similar positive qualities as Sam , also strives for success in the organization . However , Courtney ' s biggest flaw is that he thinks the Army is there to serve him , putting his last name above the U . S . Army . He prioritizes self - gain , personal recognition , and future opportunities over his soldiers ' well - being . During World War II , he made a decision to prioritize capturing a Japanese city over rescuing his unit under attack , resulting in unnecessary casualties . In contrast to Sam ' s selfless leadership style , Courtney prioritizes his own pride , ego , and success . Most leaders today fall somewhere in between these extremes , striving to strike a balance between personal recognition and servant leadership . It is crucial for leaders to focus on the organization as a whole rather than themselves , using inclusive language , understanding the unit ' s history and culture , and adapting their leadership style to meet the organization ' s needs . Some common pitfalls to avoid include seeking personal praise , thinking oneself superior to others , and using one ' s position for personal gain . Leaders should always prioritize the well - being and success of the organization and its members above their own interests . Make sure to rock those regimentals with pride! When you put them on each morning , remember that as a leader , your role is to serve the organization , not the other way around . It ' s all about teamwork , so next time you see yourself in uniform , take a moment to reflect on why you ' re here and proudly remind yourself of your purpose .
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