FORT JACKSON, S.C. -- Some six months ago, the senior leaders on post put their heads together to outline all of the things we do here on Fort Jackson and figure out the best way to plot our course into the future.
The result was a blueprint, or campaign plan - which, simply put, organizes items under various objectives and provides an analytical means to show where things fit in and assess the progress we are making.
This is not advanced calculus, by any means, but rather a sound methodology that any large organization such as ours needs for steering and also to ensure that it functions efficiently and productively.
A campaign plan is a plain-to-see necessary instrument when it comes to making long-term decisions. It allows us to view where we were back when, so that we can gauge where we are today and figure out exactly how much progress was made. It also shows us the areas in which more work is needed.
The campaign plan flows along three lines of operation, which are training, quality of life and support and sustainability. Under these lines, 10 campaign objectives are listed, as well as 49 major objectives.
Two weeks ago, the post's leadership got together again to examine where we are with our plan and its execution. It pleases me to report that there are two very important areas in which significant progress is clearly visible.
Those items would be: enhancements to mitigate the effects of persistent conflict and substantial growth in new housing and additional programs.
As for health and welfare of our Soldiers, and specifically the effects of persistent conflict, there has been some major strides made. A few of the key initiatives are resiliency programs for our drill sergeants and Soldiers, as well as Battlemind training and suicide prevention training in general.
The advantages of more Soldiers and their families being able to live on post are obvious in that commuting has been eliminated. Savings in time and expenses will be realized, as well as the benefits of additional security and greater convenience. As we move forward with the plan, our next step is to establish the metrics to measure the effect of the plan's initiatives.
This is an all-important step because it not only allows us to measure our success, but also lets us know where adjustments are needed - all of which paves the way for Fort Jackson to play a pivotal part in the training of our Soldiers.
As I have said in the past, our mission here is vital, and our obligations to our country demand the very best in all of us across the board - and, when I say that, I am talking about the military and civilian members of our Fort Jackson family.
Our legacy to the Fort Jackson generations that come after us must be one of selfless service, supported with strong and sharp leadership.
I am confident more than ever that we will continue to move forward from milepost to milepost in this mission. We will meet the mission requirements and accomplish the task, all the while carving out a legacy that is seeded in our accomplishments and deeds.
Army Strong!
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