FORT BENNING, Ga. - During a shopping trip with his wife back in July, shortly after taking command of Fort Benning, MG Michael Ferriter met Douglas Mack, an employee at the AAFES Power Zone in the PX. Mack didn't recognize the new post commander. If he had, Ferriter is fairly certain it wouldn't have made a bit of difference.
"Mr. Mack is the kind of individual who treats every private like a general and every general like a private," said Ferriter, who was so inspired by the commitment of Mack and others just like him that he launched a program to recognize inspirational leaders who serve the Soldiers and families of Fort Benning.
"As commanders and leaders, we're expected to lead and inspire Soldiers each day, and we do an outstanding job of it on Fort Benning," said Ferriter, who recently added "Demonstrate Inspirational Leadership" to the list of command priorities. "I think it's also very important to recognize the civilians in our organization at every level who inspire us to live the Army Values and look for opportunities to positively impact others.
"Whether it's the lady who hands out boots to our newest Soldiers at the Reception Battalion or the clerk at the Main Gate Visitors Center, the way they serve our Soldiers and visitors leaves an indelible impression that reflects on our entire installation."
The Commanding General's Inspired Leadership Recognition Program serves two purposes, Ferriter said. It recognizes those who demonstrate inspirational leadership, and it inspires others to follow their lead.
Alan Singleton was one of the first to benefit from the new program. Ferriter presented Singleton, a manager at the Auto Skills Center, a certificate of appreciation last month for his hard work and dedication to customer service.
"I'm honored and I think it's great that the CG and the command group took the time to come out here and do this, but it's just normal business here," Singleton said. "We take care of our
Soldiers and their families - all of our customers are important."
More than 35 individuals have been recognized since the program's inception. The recognition includes a visit from the commanding general and the presentation of a certificate. Presentation are generally done weekly and coordinated through the Maneuver Center of Excellence Public Affairs Office.
Leaders, Soldiers, family members and civilians across the installation are encouraged to nominate individuals for recognition. Nominations should include a brief explanation as to why the individual deserves to be recognized, contact information for the individual to be recognized and the name of his or her supervisor. Nominations must be signed. E-mail nominations to supunnee.ulibarri@us.army.mil or call 706-545-2212.
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