Greetings Team CECOM,
There is something about a personal handwritten note that can make a difference, because it can make you feel like a valued member of a team. When I received a handwritten note from a former commander and battle buddy 10 years ago, I can still remember how it made me feel. I felt respected and loved by someone with whom I worked. Yes, I said loved. When we take the time to get to know our team as leaders, peers and subordinates, we begin to see that love for one another can produce more than just a flourishing team. The return on our investment can produce dividends and efficiencies in ways we didn’t expect. When we act in line with our values, much can be gained.
The Sergeant Major of the Army’s philosophy “This is My Squad” is a way to ensure our team is taken care of. He reminds us that “squad” is a term of endearment and that all members of our team are much like our family. “You need to love one another,” said Lt. Col. Joe Ricciardi as he stood before his battalion of 1,000 Soldiers while deployed to Afghanistan. An authentic statement from a commanding officer that would take many off guard, especially in the military. If we approach leadership in this way, we begin from a place of authenticity. To be a part of people’s growth and development is to win in all we set out to accomplish. Our team’s successes or failures are our successes and failures. We don’t give up on our team but, instead, we listen, adjust and encourage our teammates.
Since that first handwritten note I received, I have written many letters and notes to colleagues, friends and members of my team. Love may not be an Army value per se, but it is definitely a key ingredient to successful leadership. Soldier or civilian, it is important to have compassion. In fact, compassion is infectious and a must if we value our people, our teams and our family. So, invest in people, get to know them, and stop every now and again to write a personal note of encouragement or to say thank you — your words will go a long way.
As I continue to get around to meet each of you, I am impressed by your work ethic and your commitment to ensuring the readiness of the warfighter around the globe. Thank you for all the great work you have been doing. It is noticed and appreciated and, trust me, the troops stationed around the globe are thankful. I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving. The holidays are an important opportunity for us to recharge and reconnect with those we care about. The holiday season can also be difficult for a lot of people. Please be cognizant of that fact. It is important to take care of yourselves and your loved ones during this time. Installations have a variety of resources, such as your local chaplain. At APG, we also have the APG Army Wellness Center.
Please reach out if you need a little extra help. Just because we are keeping ourselves separate to keep everyone safe doesn't mean we can't still connect. I encourage you to take advantage of technology, be creative and utilize video chats to "see" the loved ones you might not be able to spend time with this year.
Thank you for allowing me to share with you. You are a member of my squad, Team CECOM, and I will work hard and be the best I can be for all of you!
Happy Holidays, #CECOMProud!
Your CECOM CSM,
Kristie L. Brady
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