One of the first things an Airman learns in basic
training is how to march. As far as the
power of one thought it is pretty simple enough; moving groups of people from
point A to point B in an orderly fashion.
During training we start out with the fundamentals and gradually piece
them together as we become more proficient.
If you asked some you might get answers that it is a waste of time, or
that it is pointless. However, ask
someone that understands it better and you will see why it is ingrained in the
training process for thousands of trainees year after year. My explanation simple: marching is a
practical tool that instills discipline in those involved that crosses over in
our daily lives.
Marching is not a new concept. In the U.S. military it dates all the way
back to revolutionary times with George Washington’s Army with the help of
Prussian officer Baron von Steuben with the intent to quickly assemble troops
in tactical formations and instill discipline.
This tradition has carried on today despite the modernization of the
nations’ military. From my point of view
it is easy to see why.
Just as the flight must keep this lesson in mind so
should the flight commander who sets the tone for the entire flight. When a flight commander remembers he/she is
there to put service before self and confidently lead their flight with
discipline it translates into a group of men and women who are more likely to
trust their leader and strive to do the little things right. Each little critique and little correction in
marching can be seen as the finely brushed strokes that make up the finishing
touches to a fine piece of art. As you
go about your day remember the little things in life and the discipline that
allows you to focus on them. March on
and paint your masterpiece.
No comments:
Post a Comment