Specialist Bravo's outstanding professional skill, knowledge, and leadership aided immeasurably in identifying friction points as he took the initiative in supporting his Squad leader in accomplishing Subterranean/Urban Warfare operations training. Alpha Company 1st platoon was selected as the only Platoon in the Battalion to get the class and was tasked to qualify on Subterranean (SUBT) operations to prepare for an upcoming scheduled rotation to South Korea. Specialist Victor's performance as a brand new Team Leader was recognized by the Cadre and he was selected as one of the distinguished performers.
Sergeant Knox's understanding of the COIN doctorine and FM 3-24, as it applies to a squad, is outstanding. His ability to react to the local security situation and rapidly adjust his team from a COIN-centric posture to a Kinetic posture is an outstanding asset to the squad. His ability to read the situation and make sound tactical decisions allowed his squad leader to consistently position his team the farthest from the rest of the squad and platoon. His critiques and involvement improved the squad and readiness for a shifting tactical situation. The accomplishments of Sergeant Knox bring great credit upon himself, the 2nd Warhead Support Detachment, 559th Artillery Group and the United States Army.
Specialist Calhoun performed duties above his pay grade by assuming the role and responsibilities of Team Leader during Annual Training 2018. SPC Calhoun's enthusiasm in learning the position inspired his team members to review and reenforce their own qualifications, elevating the team's performance to new heights. In addition, on his own initiative, he took responsibility for 2nd platoon's communications readiness. SPC Calhoun maintained 100% accountability of the team's comm equipment, including seven SINGAR radios, two SKLs, and three DAGRs. Further, he took on the role of track Vehicle Commander. As Vehicle Commander, he maintained his vehicle above the standard and kept it mission capable at all times. Specialist Calhoun's outstanding performance during this period reflects great credit upon him, the 309th Engineer Company and the United States Army.
Sergeant Bruce Hopkins stepped up to accept the FIST Section Sergeant position during Annual Training 2019 and provided exceptional leadership throughout this period. During this time, he maintained the high standards of Fire Support while maintaining the day to day operations of the FIST team. Sergeant Hopkins is an exceptional NCO and a role model for his peers and subordinates, both in the Battery and in the Battalion, to follow. The accomplishments of Sergeant Hopkins bring great credit upon himself, 1st Battalion, 118th Field Artillery Regiment and the United States Army.
How can a Team Leader be proficient, empathetic, and engaged?
I will talk about how a Team Leader can be proficient, empathetic, and engaged. But first, what is the role of a Team leader? A team leader guides a small team to achieve a set of goals by providing direction, motivation, and management.
How can I be proficient as a Team Leader? First, I need to understand my responsibilities. As stated in the Non-Commissioned Officer's Creed, "I am aware of my role as a non-commissioned officer. I will fulfill my responsibilities inherent in that role." To be a proficient Team Leader, I need to understand the assignment and make sure that my team is well-equipped for the task.
How can I be empathetic as a Team Leader? As a Team leader, I can demonstrate empathy by being present and responsive to my subordinates. I need to be able to listen to their concerns. As stated in the non-commissioned officer's creed, "I know my soldiers and I will always place their needs above my own. I will communicate consistently with my soldiers and never leave them uninformed." As a team leader, my team needs to feel safe to express their concerns and their opinions.
How can I be engaged as a team leader? There are different ways to engage with my team as a team leader. Participation in team activities is one way to be engaged. Being physically and mentally present with my team is a strong way to boost morale. Conflict resolution is also a way to engage with the team. As a team leader, I need to be engaged and resolve issues peacefully by taking the appropriate action, either with a warning or counseling.
I need to excel in all three categories: proficient, empathetic, and engaged, to be a great team leader. The Non-Commissioned Officer's Creed is also a great guide for being a great Team Leader.
Reference: NCO Creed - Army values
