“I just have this terrible feeling that they’re going to kill him.” That line from a friend yesterday certainly struck home for me. We were discussing the situation in Ukraine. She was beaming with pride over the leadership of Volodymyr Zelensky in one moment, and in the span of a breath the gravity of theContinue reading “Our Lives, Our Fortunes, and Our Sacred Honor”
Tag Archives: veteran
“The fight is here. I need ammunition, not a ride.”
Leadership in moments of crisis demands that you confront the point of friction.
Reluctant Warriors
I’m writing this piece after spending an hour catching up on the latest out of Ukraine, and some time before that reading a biography on Ulysses S. Grant. That particular cocktail can bring your attention to a staggering truth about war: those who prepare to fight them, rarely want to. Our 18th President was noContinue reading “Reluctant Warriors”
Advocacy Meetings 109: Practice, Practice, Practice
There’s something we do in the military that I don’t see as often in civilian life – at least not in the advocacy world. It’s a powerful tool to help teams coalesce before an action and improvise during that mission. And when things inevitably go wrong in the field, this one tool helps everyone understandContinue reading “Advocacy Meetings 109: Practice, Practice, Practice”
It’s About More Than Just Ukraine
Whether we like it or not, American exceptionalism is built in large measure on our willingness to do what others can’t or won’t.
Advocacy Meetings 104: Know Your Ask and Get to It
I had a healthy reminder in a meeting with a legislator recently. The group I was with was a bit…long winded…when it came to introductions. Which prompted a question I hate to hear from the elected official: “so, are you going to tell me why you’re here?” You could immediately feel the momentum of theContinue reading “Advocacy Meetings 104: Know Your Ask and Get to It”
2 Uncomfortable Policy Proposals to Actually Support Veterans
People across the country are pausing today to say ‘thank you’ to veterans of our armed forces. From social media posts to full-blown community parades, the celebrations will take many forms. Especially in the years since 9/11, we’ve gotten better at expressing our gratitude to those who’ve served. I count my blessings every year toContinue reading “2 Uncomfortable Policy Proposals to Actually Support Veterans”
Happy Birthday, Marines
There’s something about the Marine Corps – some ineffable quality that sets it apart from the other branches. And yes, I know I’m biased. But on the eve of our 246th birthday celebration, I’ll beg your pardon for the extra swagger in our step. Right now, Marines around the globe are celebrating their heritage. ThoseContinue reading “Happy Birthday, Marines”
Colin Powell, The Reluctant Warrior
In the last decade, former Secretary of State Colin Powell may have found himself feeling like a man out of sync with the times. With the news of his passing yesterday, I found myself reflecting on the profound impact he had on so many over such a long career. Regardless of one’s politics, there’s probablyContinue reading “Colin Powell, The Reluctant Warrior”
If Not Us, Who?
I know I tend to take a more positive tone in most of my posts, but we are now two weeks into the devastating failure of the Afghanistan evacuation and I’m struggling to find the light. Despite the administration’s efforts to reassure the international community by way of the tens of thousands evacuated so far,Continue reading “If Not Us, Who?”
Part of the Possible 