TIME, 8/29/2011
Veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan, are bringing their leadership and military lessons back home. There is a lot of publicity about veterans returning home with PSTD, domestic violence issues, and depression. However, veteran leadership stories should take notice. Among them include:
Captain Jeremiah Ellis (4thInfantry Division on southern Afghanistan) worked with First Sergeant Jack Robinson, to learn how they could help returning troops that have difficulty with violence. They organized a 3 day Outward Bound program at Fort Carlson, Colorado (rock climbing, whitewater rafting, adventure races). He invited therapists from the University of New Hampshire and the Army to facilitate conversations about their emotions, concerns, anger and making the transition to home. “When we rotate home, we work on fixing up every piece of equipment except their brains“, said Captain Ellis.
Purple Heart Homes: Dale Beatty and John Gallina were high school friends that served in Iraq together. Gallina suffered a traumatic brain injury, a damaged back and PTSD. Beatty had to make the difficult decision to amputate his only remaining leg. However, they worked together to organize Purple Heat Homes. Their organization completes handicapped-access projects for veterans.
General David Petraeus believes they are our next greatest generation. “They’ve had to show incredibly flexibility, never knowing whether they’re going to be greeted with a handshake, or a hand grenade, They’ve been exposed to experiences that are totally unique, compared with most Americans.”
The veterans are just beginning to learn their talents, strengths and leadership capabilities that are unlike civilians. Their sense of purpose, discipline, grace under extreme pressure, and loyalty are among some of their top leadership skills.
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