EP 92 War Stories: Mission First, People Always

Christopher Cassibry, COL US Army (Ret), Callsign “Denali 6” has spent his entire professional life in the Service of his People.  During this conversation, Joseph talks with his former wartime commander about the making tough calls, remaining calm as a Leader and understanding what it means to “be good with the decisions, one makes”.  Chris has held many positions of command in his military career, but one of the most consequential was his time leading 500+ paratroopers during one of the campaigns of the Afghanistan War. Spread over multiple outposts and against a determined enemy, this tour of duty was no walk in the park.  Combat is a unique human endeavor and a sheer test of wills- A thinking man’s game.  If you are not able to spend time thinking about your decisions, you may find it difficult to live with them.  Good news is that you don’t have to make this decision on your own.  Despite the responsibilities of Leadership, especially during a time of war, Chris says that even the Leader needs someone to lean on.  This even further applies to the caregivers in our organizations.  Whether it’s a medic, Chaplain or that Teammate everyone goes to with their problems, a good Leader is aware that the folks who give so much, can be burdened with the emotions and stress of others. It’s important to ensure you take care of those folks. Cassibry learned from his father (Army Chaplain) that you don’t have be a jerk to be a good Leader.  If your People are not able to approach you, then how can you help them solve their problems.   In war and in peacetime, being “Loyal Down” is the sign of trust.  When a Leader honors their responsibilities and has the best interest of their Team front of mind, your Team reciprocates.  Despite the harsh and unforgiving nature of war, it can be a great teacher and one that reminds us that the art of human nature will always supersede the science.

 

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