Military Leaders of Today

In this episode Alex discusses many of the big headlines in the press relating to the U.S Army. From the revival of the 'Be all that you can be" slogan and the new Army recruiting commercial, to the newly released U.S Army Cadet Command (USACC) enlisted referral program, and the much-anticipated ACFT height and weight guideline changes. 

I provide my opinions, thoughts, and insight on all of these areas and offer commentary that you won't find anywhere else. 

LINKS: 

In this episode I detail my experiences with rifle marksmanship and the range at Advanced Camp and provides tips for how you can succeed while qualifying, grouping and zeroing, and stress shooting. A must pass event cadets often worry tremendously about this event, including myself but I am here to tell you not to worry about the event. 

More Advanced Camp episodes will follow, so stay tuned!

In this episode Alex provides a detailed account of what you can expect in garrison as a cadet at U.S Army ROTC Advanced Camp in order to help you prepare, plan, and ultimately succeed. With the bulk of your time spent in garrison, this episode will detail what you can expect while living and sleeping the barracks. 

More Advanced Camp episodes will follow, so stay tuned! 

In this episode Alex provides the listener with a high-level overview of the U.S Army ROTC's Advanced Camp (CST) to help prepare them to succeed at Advanced Camp this next summer. 

This is episode one in Advanced Camp series so be sure to stay tuned for the next episode. Alex will provide further episodes that will go in depth on each aspect of Camp. 

In this episode I discuss land navigation at CST, to include the written and practical test, and what you can expect when you attend CST. 

In this episode Alex outlines the career of the commander of Nellis Air Force Base and the Nevada Test and Training Range (NTTR) which includes Area 51. So, if you want to see what it takes to command of one of the U.S's most secretive military facility then give this episode a listen. 

In this unscripted episode, Alex discusses the recent announcement of SMA Grinston's replacement and retirement. We will outline the career of the current command sergeant major replacing him in August 2023 and what we can (likely) expect him to do. 

In this episode Alex discusses the career of Colonel Phillip Brown Jr, a decorated Green Beret and leader of Joint Task Force Bravo in Honduras. 

In this episode, Alex discusses the legendary 173rd Airborne Brigade which is the U.S Army's permanent contingency response force in Europe. As Sky Soldiers they are a decorated Airborne Brigade Combat Team (BCT) based in beautiful locations across Italy and Germany.  

Join me as I discuss their history, including how they got their nickname, and provide you with more information on one of the coolest units in the Army.

In this episode Alex discusses the USMC Embassy Security Group, the U.S military component that is responsible for providing physical security for U.S embassies, consulates, and missions across the world. 

In this episode Alex details the life and career of Brigadier General Guillaume "Will" Beaurpere, a decorated U.S Army Special Forces officer and leader. He further discusses the three different units within U.S Army Special Forces. 

In this episode, Alex summarizes the history of the newly reactivated 11th Airborne Division which calls Alaska home. A unit with extensive history, the 11th Airborne is the Army's premier Artic warfare unit and trains, defends, and operates within Alaska and the Artic Circle. 

In this episode, Alex highlights the life and career of Captain Michael Abrashoff a published author and former of the USS Benfold. Abrashoff was a great Naval leader, but now as a civilian he has proven to be a great author. 

The author of several NY Times Best Sellers, Abrashoff tells his leadership story in his book Management Techniques from the Best Damn Ship in the Navy which chronicles his leadership journey from the halls of the US Naval Academy to the bridge of a guided missile destroyer. 

In simple and easily digestible terms, Abrashoff provides the reader with practical leadership lessons that can be implemented immediately in both business and the military. 

In this episode Alex discusses the leadership principle of standing up for subordinates using the recent events surrounding Major General Patrick Donahoe, an U.S Army officer who came under fire for some of his tweets in which he defended the role of women in the Army. Standing up for your subordinates is essential for leaders to do, no matter the consequences. 

In this episode Alex discusses the normal career progression for U.S Army officers in operations, force sustainment, and operations support providing the listener with a better understanding of officer careers and advancement in the U.S Army. 

Using a new website developed by the Army for its cadets to use when deciding their career field within the Army, Alex utilizes these free to use resources to give the listener a glimpse into the career of Army officers and a better understanding of how our leaders develop and rise up in the ranks. 

Army Website Utilized: 

In this episode Alex describes the importance of the U.S Army Combat Capabilities Development Command and a few of the technological advances that the command is developing for the U.S military and its allies. At the head of this command is MG Edmond 'Miles' Brown. Responsible for supporting and leading nearly 20,000 scientists, researchers, engineers, and soldiers MG Brown is at the tip of innovation in the U.S Army. 

Alex then goes on to outline the career of MG Brown. Born to a military family, Brown enlisted in the U.S Army Reserves before he commissioned from ROTC at the Citadel. A field artillery officer, Brown was deployed and stationed around the world and the United States. MG Brown has served in numerous notable positions and some very unique assignments. 

The episode wraps up with Alex discussing the importance of innovation in the U.S military, especially as the force prepares for its next large conflict.  

DISCLAIMER: All views expressed in this podcast and comments made verbally or written do not reflect the views of the Department of the Army or the Department of Defense and are that of my own.

Articles/Sources Referenced in the Episode: 

In this episode I outline the career of Major General Christopher Donahue, commander of the legendary 82nd Airborne Division. After graduating from West Point MG Donahue became an infantry officer and was assigned to U.S Army Special Operations Command for much of his career. In 2020, he was selected to led the 82nd Airborne Division and its 17,000 paratroopers. You won't want to miss this exciting episode! 

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In this episode I outline the life and career of Colonel Stephen Snelson, commander of the Presidential Airlift Group (89th Airlift Wing). You won't want to miss episode! 

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In this episode I outline the career of United States Navy Captain Martin Muckian, a decorated submarine nuclear officer and current Chief of Staff of Submarine Force Pacific.  

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In this episode I summarize the career of the newly appointed Chief of Staff of the United States Air Force, General Charles Brown Jr. You won't to miss this high flying episode!

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In this episode I outline the life and career of Commander Brain Kesselring the current commander of the U.S Navy's Blue Angels and naval aviator. You won't want to miss this exciting episode! 

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In this episode I outline the career of Brigadier General Curtis Buzzard, the current commandant of U.S Army Corps of Cadets at the U.S Military Academy. 

Once a cadet at West Point himself, BG Buzzard would go on to became an infantry officer; spending most of his early career in the legendary 82nd Airborne Division. Though an infantry officer, Buzzard would command a logistics platoon, armored squadron, and even serve as military aide to Presidents George Bush and Barack Obama. Ultimately, he would return back to were his career started; assuming command of nearly five thousand cadets at West Point. 

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In this episode I discuss the life and career of U.S Army infantry officer and commander of the legendary 3rd Infantry Regiment, Colonel Patrick Roddy Jr.  You will not want to miss this exciting episode! 

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In this episode I outline the career of United States Marine Corps Major General Julian Alford, former Commander of USMC Base Camp Lejeune and USMC Installations East.  

As a young Lieutenant, Alford quickly earned his stripes. Tasked with leading a platoon of Marines in the historic U.S Invasion of Panama, he was tested in the heat of battle and Central America. Later taking command of a mortar platoon and then a light armored infantry detachment he proved his versatility and adaptability. 

Advancing in rank, he took assignments that others avoided with an optimistic and grateful attitude. Embodying what it means to be a military officer, he would ultimately pin two stars and earn a promotion to Major General along with so much more. You won't want to miss this episode!   

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In this episode I outline the career of U.S Army military intelligence officer, Lieutenant General Scott Berrier who has recently been nominated to become the next director of the secretive Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA). 

Commissioned through an Army ROTC program at a rural Wisconsin university, trained in the frigid Arctic Circle, and tested in the desolate mountains of Afghanistan and Korea: LTG Scott Berrier's career has been a remarkable journey. You won't want to miss this episode! 

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In this episode I discuss the career of Chief Master Sergeant Cory Olson, the current Command Chief Master Sergeant of Air Force Special Operations Command. 

A career enlisted aviator, Olson's career as a loadmaster has taken him all over the world-- from the Balkans to Central America and even the Pacific Islands--in a slew of highly classified assignments. 

Returning back to the United States, Olson would serve as the senior enlisted advisor and Command Chief Master Sergeant for some the USAF's most covert special operations units. 

Finally, in his most current assignment, Olson represents the nearly 20,000 airmen of the USAF special operations command as the Command Chief Master Sergeant. So join me as I highlight Olson's nearly 30 year long career! 

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In this episode I discuss the life and career of Colonel Todd Brown, U.S Army Ranger and Commander of the legendary 75th Ranger Regiment. 

Starting his career as First Captain at the prestigious U.S Military Academy at West Point, Brown would quickly excel and stand out. Serving with Airborne infantry units in Italy and Iraq, Brown would ultimately join the legendary 75th Ranger Regiment and eventually take command of the elite unit. You won't want to miss this episode!

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In this episode I discuss the life and career of U.S Navy Admiral Craig Faller, the current commander of U.S Southern Command. You won't want to miss this!

As a small town boy, Faller likely dreamed of exploring the world, expanding his horizons, and ultimately making a name for himself. Defining the odds Faller graduated from the U.S Naval Academy, becoming a surface warfare officer, and ultimately beginning a career that would change his life. 

With nearly forty years of service, Faller has commanded divisions, departments, warships, and a even a carrier strike group. He now commands one of the eleven unified commands in the U.S military, conducting a unique counter narcotic and terrorism mission while protection Americans abroad. 

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In this episode I outline the life and career of Command Sergeant Major Walter "Tag" Tagalicud the senior enlisted advisor for United Nations Command (UNC), Combined Forces Command (CFC), and United States Forces Korea (USFK). 

Born and raised in the Philippines, Tagalicud was exposed to the military at a young age. His father, an aviator with the US Air Force, was stationed on the island nation for nearly eight years. Following in his foot steps, Walter Tagalicud enlisted in the United States Army and became an infantryman. Little did he know that his career would take him all over the world--in a variety of assignments and positions-- ultimately culminating into coveted senior enlisted leadership role in one of the most volatile regions in the world. You won't want to miss this episode! 

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In this episode I outline the life and career of Col. Andrew Barr of the United States Army, director of the Walter Reed Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland. 

Many doctors dream of helping others, caring for individuals in their darkest moments, and witnessing the joyous recovery of young and old. They do it selflessly--like all healthcare workers--sacrificing so much for others: Colonel Barr is no different. 

From time in clinics in Germany and Italy to operating rooms in Iraq and Korea, Colonel Barr has spent his entire Army career caring for soldiers and their loved ones. Once responsible for commanding Tripler Army Medical Center in Hawaii, Barr now oversees the world's premier military hospital. 

An unique journey, unlike no other, Colonel Barr's career is full of stories and insight: you won't want to miss this episode! 

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In this episode I discuss the life and career of Admiral Philip Davidson, United States Navy officer and the current commander of US Indo-Pacific Command. 

In a nearly forty-two year career that has led him across the world, Davidson has accomplished and experienced a lot. From his service to the Vice President, Commander of US Navy Europe and Africa Command, and carrier strike group commander: you will not want to miss this episode!  

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In this episode I discuss the life and career of the 27th Secretary of Defense and former Army Lt. Colonel Mark Esper. From his time in uniform, the halls of the Capitol, the E-Ring of the Pentagon, and the board rooms of notable defense contractors I cover it all. You won't want to miss this episode! 

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In this episode discuss the life and career of Lt. Colonel Alexander Vindman of the the United States Army; a key witness in the impeachment of President Donald Trump. 

Colonel Vindman embodies the "American Dream". An Ukrainian immigrant raised in New York City, Vindman took advantage of every opportunity presented to him. Following in the steps of his old brother, Vindman would enroll in Army ROTC and then commission as a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Army.

As an infantry officer Vindman would led platoons in Korea, Germany, and Iraq; even earning the Purple Heart. However, he would later become a Foreign Area Officer and expert in all things Russia and Ukraine. This expertise and ability to speak Ukrainian and Russian would later propel him to the Pentagon and then the White House. 

And the rest is all history; you won't want to miss this episode! 

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In this episode I discuss the life and career of United States Marine Corps General Robert Neller (ret.), former Commandant of the USMC and Commanding General of Marine Corps Forces Central Command. 

Raised in East Lansing, Michigan--home of the Michigan State University Spartans--Robert Neller embodies the famous fighting spirit once held by the Spartans of old. A cunning warrior, compassionate leader, and expert tactician Neller would led Marines in battles all across the world. In Panama he ended the regime of a brutal dictator, in Somalia he provided locals with access to humanitarian aid, and in Iraq he ensured that 9/11 would never happen again. His experience is undisputed, his leadership tested, and his resolve relentless.   

Yet, over the course of his nearly forty five year long career in the USMC Neller did so much more. He trained future generations of both enlisted Marines at MCRD San Diego and officers at Quantico, Virginia. He also served in a NATO staff position in Belgium and interacted frequently with US allies and partners. 

But this is only a small part of his entire career so be so to tune into this episode to find out all about General Robert Neller's career in the United States Marine Corps and service to his nation. 

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In this episode I discuss the life and career of Admiral William McRaven (ret.) of the United States Navy and former commander of US Special Operations Command. 

Admiral McRaven has done what many dream but fail to do: become a US Navy SEAL. As a SEAL McRaven had already accomplished a lot however he would do so much more over a nearly 40 year long career in the US Navy. As a sailor he would become an elite warrior, cunning leader, and unrivaled motivator. But as a leader he would be responsible for planning, executing, and leading some of the most clandestine operations and missions in the world. In fact, he would go on to be the man tasked with executing the mission to kill or capture Osama Bin Laden. 

Yet, he started on the same footing as all other potential officers in the US Navy. Born in a military family he was exposed to the lifestyle early on yet the frequent moving and time a way from family did not deter him. Enrolling in NROTC in college, he excelled and volunteered to attend BUDS and SEAL training upon earning his commission. 

But this would only be the tip of the iceberg in his career so join me as I dive into the life and career of Admiral William McRaven: the man with the plan to neutralize Osama Bin Laden.

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In my latest episode I discuss the life and career of United States Marine Corps General John Kelly, the former commanding general of United States Southern Command. 

There must be something in the water in Massachusetts as it has churned out some of the most notable modern Marine Corp leaders. From his humble beginnings as a Merchant Marine shipping beer to Vietnam to literally commanding legions of Marines in battles across the Middle East, Kelly has done and seen a lot. And all of this has prepared him for roles that saw him brushing shoulders with high ranking military officers and influential politicians. 

Ultimately, Kelly's leadership skills and dedicated public service even caught the eye of then-President elect Donald Trump and earned him two top positions in Trump's administration. 

So join me, as I discuss this and so much more, in this riveting episode! 

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In this episode I discuss the life and career of US Air Force general and Chief of the National Guard Bureau Joseph Lengyel. As an airman he flew F-16s across the world and trained generations of fighter pilots but as an officer and leader he has done so much more. 

His unique command assignments that have led him from Egypt to Belgium to South Korea and back to the United States coupled with his broad experiences in the Texas Air National Guard and time as a pilot for Delta Airlines have all prepared him to command the roughly 450,000 personnel that make up the National Guard Bureau. As the man responsible for the rapid mobilization of National Guard soldiers and airmen during a global pandemic and period of unrest in the United States, Lengyel undoubtedly is busy right about now. 

So join me as I discuss the life and career of the general responsible for both ensuring the safety of all Americans during the historic Black Lives Matter movement and a global pandemic. 

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To conclude Marine Corps Week, I discuss the life and career of General Joseph Dunford former Commandant of the United States Marine Corp and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. 

Long before he would become the most senior military officer in the United States military,  Joseph Dunford was just like most kids from Boston. He was a devote Irish Catholic and avid fan of the Boston Red Socks. However, he would quickly become so much more. Following the steps of his father and uncles Dunford would join the United States Marine Corp as a officer. Quickly excelling in the Corp, Dunford would rise through the ranks all the while leading Marines in combat and developing the Corp for the future. Ultimately, after thirty years of service Dunford would become Commandant of the US Marine Corps and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. 

This episode will document Dunford's rise to success in United States Marine Corps and his service to the United States of America: YOU WILL NOT WANT TO MISS IT! Thanks for listening and your continued support, stay tuned for more!

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To begin Marine Corps Week, I outline the life and career of the legendary General James Mattis of the United States Marine Corps. 

Born and raised in Washington state, James Mattis was built for military service. As a child he was an avid reader, eager to learn all he could about everything. At college he leveraged his love for life-long learning with natural leadership skills to excel not only in Navy ROTC but the military in general. Known as a compassionate, personable, and caring leader Mattis was highly revered by the Marines under his command. Yet, he was also a skilled military tactician and cunning strategist. 

Warrior Monk, CHAOS, Mad dog, and Saint Mattis of Quantico are just a few nicknames that have been given to General Mattis throughout his lengthy career of military service. But who is the man who reportedly killed 22 insurgents with a grenade BEFORE it exploded?  This and so much more will be answered in this episode! Thanks for listening!

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In the second episode of Space Week, I discuss the career of the newly appointed commander of the United States Space Force: General John Raymond.

Over the course of his 35 years of service with the United States Air Force, General John Raymond has been at the forefront of innovation. From his humble beginnings as an Air Force ROTC cadet at Clemson University Raymond he aimed high. Quickly ascending the ranks Raymond served with the 321st Strategic Missile Wing, 1st Aerospace Division,  and ultimately commanded the entire Air Force Space Command. 

As the first commander of the United States Space Force he will undoubtedly leave a legacy for generations to follow. So join me as I discuss the man behind the future of the United States Space Force. Thanks for listening!

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In the first episode of Space Week, I discuss the career of Chief Master Sergeant Roger Towberman; the recently appointed senior enlisted advisor and senior enlisted leader of the newly created United States Space Force. 

After a brief background of the US Space Force, I outline Towberman's career in the US Air Force. An exceptional leader who served in numerous potions throughout his time in the Air Force, a career enlisted aviator who flew the RC-135V Rivet Joint, and a experienced intelligence analyst: Towberman is the perfect choice to head the newly created US Space Force. 

So join me as I discuss the man behind the future of the United States Space Force. Stay tuned for Thursday's episode, where I outline the career of General John Raymond; Commander, United States Space Command. 

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This is the introductory trailer for space week, a series of in depth looks into the leaders behind the newest branch of the United States Armed Forces. Starting June 2, 2020 we will dive into the careers of top leaders in the United States Space Force, so stay tuned! 

In this episode I discuss the career of General Colin Powell, legendary American statesman and brilliant military leader, and his service to the United States. Commissioned through ROTC at the City College of New York (CCNY) Powell excelled as a military officer. A natural leader, he rapidly rose through the ranks of the United States Army. Before long, he became National Security Advisor to President Ronald Reagan and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. 

But before he would grace the Oval Office he started, like all army officers, as a second lieutenant.  Join me as I journey through Powell's career; from his initial assignment in West Germany to his service in the jungles of Vietnam. You won't want to miss it! 

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