Just a few days ago I received the following message that really made me feel proud.

"Drill sergeant macdougall! I never got the chance to thank you after graduation for being such a great instructor and leader! I know I wasn't the best in basic but I am here at Fort Bragg now and just keepin after it and team leaders and such say that I'm one of the best in the platoon and they wish they could have at least one squad full of guys like me.....and I tell them its cuz of 2 drill sergeants in basic that were great leaders and very influential in my life.....you and drill sergeant forester were excellent examples and great leaders and I just want to say thank you."

The message just made me reflect back on all the leaders that I have had over the past years. I have had my fair share of terrible leaders and ones who are role models. Just remember, even if you have a poor "boss" you can still learn from them. Take note of what they do wrong and remember that for when you have young Soldiers under you. Some of my best learned lessons were from Soldiers that I have respected the least.

Dont just strive to be strong....be Army Strong!