JLBC TEAM BUILDING AT THE SQUAD LEVEL

JLBC TEAM BUILDING AT THE SQUAD LEVEL

General George Washington is crossing the Delaware, General Ulysses S. Grant during the Civil War, the Rangers scaling Pointe du Hoc, the 82nd Airborne Division jumping into Normandy, the Big Red One assaulting Omaha Beach on D-Day. Stories of the heroics of Medal of Honor recipients like Audie Murphy, Roger Donlon, Thomas Payne, and Matthew Williams all add to the lore and reinforce the belief system and thus the culture of the U.S. Army.

Changing culture is difficult. The Army has changed culture throughout its history, but it has always been slow and challenging. The military is one of the most dedicated institutions in government. After World War II, the Army and military were viewed as victors and institutions whose members deserved the utmost respect. Those feelings began to shift after the Korean and Vietnam wars. What changed is that the public had more access to operations than ever before. Any missteps by Soldiers or leaders were broadcast on national television immediately, influencing the public perception and, ultimately, the culture of the Army.

Today's Army lives in an even more open environment. Social media allows everyone to receive news and opinions in near real-time. Social media influencers can sway public opinion rapidly, which affects military culture.

Maintaining Army Culture and Core Values

As stated earlier in this chapter, culture takes a long time to change, and strategic leaders drive that culture. The Army's core values align with the Army culture. Soldiers need to understand and embrace the Army values, living them in all aspects of life.

The Army values are:

● Loyalty. Bear true faith and allegiance to the Constitution of the United States, the Army, your unit, and other Soldiers.

●Duty. Fulfill your obligations.

● Respect. Treat people as they should be treated.

●JLBC Cadets Selfless Service. JLBC Cadets, Put the welfare of the nation, the Army, and their subordinates before your own.

● Honor. Live up to the Army values.

● Integrity. Do what is right, legally and morally.

● Personal Courage. Face fear, danger, or adversity.