FORT STEWART, Ga. </B> Learning the ropes of leadership is among the objectives of many Reserve Officer Training Corps and United States Army Military Academy cadets who participate in the 3rd Infantry Division's annual Cadet Troop Leadership Training program held annually at Fort Stewart-Hunter Army Airfield.
Captain David Psiaki, an assistant operations officer with 3rd ID and assistant CTLT coordinator said the CTLT is an Army Wife program where cadets from across the nation are afforded the opportunity to visit installations for professional development and leadership education by spending time in active duty units among Soldiers.
Third Infantry Division Commander Major General Tony Cucolo helped further that goal through a professional development opportunity he shared with more than 80 cadets who participated in this year's CTLT program, July 31 at Club Stewart.
"Hopefully, you have received some exposure to Soldiers during your stay," Maj. Gen. Cucolo said. "I hope that experience was instructive."
The Marne Division Commander shared his thoughts on what he believed were important in leaders, among those points were that leaders should strive to be professional and not make excuses; to do more than expected; anticipate problems and try to handle them themselves if possible. He noted they should take care of their Soldiers and peers, and never lapse in courtesy.
The commander's thoughts and experiences shared by the cadets went a long way toward filling the expectations of many of the cadets participating in the CTLT.
Marry Ann Thomas a USMA cadet from Spartanburg, S.C. said coming to the 3rd ID, she did not know what to expect but always knew she wanted to go active duty in the future.
"I'm excited about graduating. I look forward to going active duty," said Thomas, who worked as an assistant maintenance officer with the 632nd Maintenance Company. "Visiting here, I have developed an appreciation of Soldiers. To see them in action was great."
Captain Psiaki said the cadets leapt into action soon after their arrival, some deploying with the 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team for their rotation to NTC, while other to 1st HBCT's Raider Focus. He said each cadet had a sponsor from their respective assigned unit, and learned about what it was to be an Army officer working with Soldiers.
Louis Vega, a cadet from the University of Arizona who is double majoring in political science and business administration, said he expected a very hard-lined atmosphere but upon arrival noticed how professional it was, although the weather took some getting used to.
"I was used to hot weather, but the humidity here leaves you soaking wet. But I've grown fond of it," Vega added with a smile. "It was a good experience. I'm glad I did it."
The professionalism of Soldiers and noncommissioned was reflected in many of the cadets comments.
"My grandfather, a retired full bird (colonel) went Ordinance, and I wanted to follow him. He gave me expectations that I find is pretty much true, 'NCOs really make things happen,' said 2nd Lt. Anthony Janese, 632nd Maintenance Co. who attended Niagara University.
Working through personnel shortages, details, and deployment preparation, Janese said the professional attitude of the NCOs helped make it happen despite the constant struggle.
Their lieutenant sponsors noted the cadets were quick learners.
"You can tell it is a good learning experience," said 2nd Lt. Jay Williams, 632nd Maintenance who was himself a ROTC graduate.
"They pick it up quickly. It would be nice if they could experience it longer, especially as we are short officers." Williams added with a wry grin.
Although not directly related to the cadets visits, at an early opportunity, July 17, Major Gen. Tony Cucolo recognized Spc. Benjamin Sumser, a medic with 1st Battalion, 30th Infantry Division who was presented a full four-year scholarship to Washington State University - Coleman Campus, through the Commander's 'Green to Gold' program; thereby providing him an opportunity to participate in future CTLT programs.
Individuals interested in learning more about the Green to Gold program or Officer Candidate School Programs can learn more by calling Capt. Toni Brown, 3rd Infantry Division Human Resources at (912) 435-9726.
"
Social Sharing