How does the Army prepare Soldiers and their Families for the military lifestyle? How does it make them resilient to the challenges ahead? And how does the service prepare Soldiers, Families and communities for the potential of combat operations?
On March 5, military specialists and professionals convened at the General Gordon R. Sullivan Conference and Events Center in Arlington, Virginia, to answer these and other questions during the Association of the United States Army’s second Hot Topic Series event of the year.
The daylong forum, for which AUSA partnered with the Army Chaplain Corps, covered “Holistic Health and the Resilient Soldier,” highlighting how a holistic approach has reduced harmful behaviors within the Army and fostered healthier communities by helping Soldiers, Civilians and Family members develop character and purpose.
Jam-packed with briefings, speeches and networking opportunities, the event culminated with the panel discussion “Building a Resilient Army Family and Community,” moderated by Command Sgt. Maj. James Morris of the 589th Brigade Support Battalion, 41st Field Artillery Brigade, Grafenwoehr, Germany.
The panelists discussed the massive challenges that military Families have faced over the past few decades, from war, financial instability and the COVID-19 pandemic—all of which have led to increased isolation and stress. Morris said, however, that he believes that Soldiers and their Families can become more resilient by turning to Army programs, religious support and community initiatives.
“The Army Family is key to our Soldiers’ resolve to fight and win our nation’s wars,” Morris noted, adding that “that connection allows the Soldier to serve this nation.”
Fellow panelist Retired Gen. Vincent Brooks observed, “More of our society could benefit from the nature of community that is created within the Army, which is the ability to take care of one another, celebrate great events in life together and celebrate the hardships together, because there are certainly hardships—there always have been and there will always be, with or without large-scale operations around the world.”
Sgt. Maj. Ruben Murillo, Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Directorate of Prevention, Resilience and Readiness, explained how the Army creates programs, resources and support activities to build the resilience of Families and communities at home and abroad.
Also on the panel were Corie Weathers, Clinical Adviser on Military Morale and Leadership, and Rabbi Elan Babchuck, Executive Vice President at Clal, the National Jewish Center for Learning and Leadership.
The AUSA Hot Topic Series is designed with input from key Army staff and major commands. Each Hot Topic event offers a unique opportunity for members of academia, the media and industry to engage with military leaders and government policymakers. Participants can collaborate on solutions to the Army’s most pressing challenges while gaining insights into current capabilities, future requirements and Soldiers’ needs.
To watch the recorded event, visit YouTube. Learn more about the Hot Topic Series on the AUSA website.
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