Glenn A. Wait, Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall's new chief of staff, started his position here June 29. In his short time on the job, he says he already finds the joint base's mission profoundly moving.
Wait said the ceremonial missions of the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) and the services they provide to military families amaze him every day.
"Many Soldiers start their career here at Fort Myer, and when it's time to be done, some are buried here [in Arlington National Cemetery]," he said during an interview with the Pentagram.
"There's nothing more important to somebody at that time of distress. Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall is an installation of professionals, and to me it's just awe-inspiring."
Wait's position as chief of staff is the latest development in a 32-year Army career.
He enlisted as a Soldier in 1982 and served in various assignments stateside and overseas. He served eight years on active duty as well as in the National Guard, but the bulk of his career has been as an Army civilian employee.
"I have a connection, I think, to the Soldier," he said. "I started as a private in the United States Army. I understand the importance of what a service member does and know it is our job to ensure that we provide a quality of life commensurate with their service."
In fact, Wait said he briefly stayed on Fort Myer in the late '80s, during a transition time when returning from Europe.
"Who would have thought that I'd end up at this point in my career at Fort Myer?" he said.
And Wait is looking forward to giving back to the Army, providing training and developing workers and leaders.
"I'm a big believer in workforce development and building a culture and organization that will strive to be the best it can be," he said. "We need to invest in our people and make sure we have the right training. We're building our leaders here at JBM-HH."
Above all, Wait said he wanted to help employees achieve their goals and help the joint base accomplish its mission.
"From the macro level, knowing that what we do at JBM-HH is directly supporting our service members, families and civilians is extremely rewarding," said Wait. "From the micro level, knowing that I have the ability to actively develop employees wherever I go, and help each of them reach their full potential of positive impact during each of their assignments.
"As chief of staff I am also positioned to lead change while fostering an inclusive workplace where diversity and differences are vital to the success of the overall mission," he said. "I'm honored to be on the team."
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