Remember our fallen heroes
Some of the most humble people in America are our Medal of Honor recipients. When asked about this iconic medal, they often state that they don’t wear the medal for themselves – they wear it for those who never returned from combat. Next weekend, we all have the opportunity to remind ourselves of the great sacrifices that so many made in the service of their country. Memorial Day has been a...
Read MoreTo cultivate leadership, we can learn a lot from the miltary
One of my great privileges in recent years has been conducting leadership workshops for military audiences – officer groups, enlisted groups and groups that are mixtures of both. At these workshops, the question is often asked, “What are the key differences between leadership in the military and leadership in the civilian world?” Here are some perspectives. Military professionals get so many...
Read MoreWhither American power?
Once again on July 4 we celebrate the anniversary of the creation of the great experiment known as the United States of America. At this time it might be useful to take a step back and analyze our multidimensional nation of 310 million people and where it might be headed. A number of pundits and historians have concluded that the 70-year period of American predominance in world affairs is coming...
Read MoreShoes, eggs, coal and restless Arab states
Recent news stories coming out of China may give us some insights into the problems the Chinese government, at all levels, is having in a host of areas. Why are these issues important? Since China will be the most important country we will have to deal with in the future, the more we can learn about its people, its government, its economy, its military, its culture and its problems, the better....
Read MoreThe courage of children: Pupils relect on the making of heroes
Originally published in the Augusta Chronicle on Jan. 9, 2011– Last month I had a wonderfully uplifting experience at Stevens Creek Elementary School in Columbia County. I had been invited by Tara Hansen to teach the entire fifth grade, about 150 pupils. The topics were leadership, service to others and courage. I stressed that there are extraordinary individuals who can serve as role...
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