The Joint Staff

LEADERS MUST REACT | As military and civilian leaders, we face high-stakes situations where quick and informed decisions are vital. Our ability to adapt and guide our teams through uncertainty is essential. The OODA loop—Observe, Orient, Decide, Act—helps us stay ahead and manage complex operations. Reactive leadership is not impulsive. It’s about adapting plans as new information comes in. Mission command helps us rely on experience, training, and teamwork to navigate challenges. We need a culture of continuous learning and empowerment at all levels. This makes our Joint Force resilient and adaptive. Improving reactive capabilities is essential for effective leadership in an unpredictable world.

At the recent African Chiefs of Defense Conference hosted by U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) and Botswana, I emphasized the critical importance of working with our African partners to enhance security, stability, and cooperation in the region. Leveraging our shared insights and perspectives is key to these efforts. Sir Seretse Khama, the Republic of Botswana’s first democratically elected president, once said, "The trouble we now face in the world is caused mainly by the refusal to try and see another man’s point of view.” This wisdom resonates deeply when addressing the complex challenges and opportunities in Africa. As professional militaries, our mission is to promote security and stability—two elements that are fundamental for progress and prosperity in our societies. But no military can tackle all challenges alone, and no nation can succeed in isolation. Success requires cooperation. Our enduring, professional military-to-military relationships with African countries are a testament to the power of partnership. As we look to the future and navigate growing complexities, working together will be even more vital.

Happy Fourth of July! Today, as we celebrate our Nation’s independence, let us also take a moment to recognize the unwavering commitment of our Joint Force and their families. Their dedication ensures the values we hold dear—life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. On this day, we honor their sacrifices and reaffirm our commitment to safeguarding the principles that define us as Americans. Wishing everyone a safe and meaningful Independence Day.

I recently met with officers who spent a year participating in the Secretary of Defense Executive Fellows program. This initiative equips our Joint Force with valuable insights from the private sector, enhancing our ability to tackle complex challenges. Bringing private sector experience to the military is crucial for fostering innovation and efficiency. The exchange of ideas and best practices between the military and private sector helps us leverage advanced technologies and formulate strategic approaches. This collaboration is not just beneficial for our Joint Force. By understanding military operations and needs, the private sector can better tailor their solutions and services, leading to more effective partnerships. Together, we can drive progress and ensure that both our military and private sector remain adaptable and forward-thinking in the face of evolving challenges.

As a learning leader, I have always valued different perspectives to broaden my knowledge. In the latest edition of the Chairman’s Leadership Library—an initiative designed to challenge our thinking—I’ve assembled a selection of insightful resources aimed at expanding perspectives and enhancing leadership capabilities. From discussions on trust-building and vulnerability to strategic insights from allies like Japan, these resources offer valuable lessons applicable to both military and civilian leaders. I encourage you to delve into the library to explore how these historical lessons, contemporary podcasts, and strategic analyses can enrich our respective leadership journeys. https://lnkd.in/eXHEXRmd

Happy Birthday to the U.S. Army! As the oldest branch of the U.S. military, the Army has stood as a pillar of strength and resilience since its inception 249 years ago. Throughout its storied history, the Army has exemplified the values of dedication and courage. From the Battle of Saratoga, often regarded as the turning point of the Revolutionary War, to the heroic endeavors of D-Day and the bravery and selflessness displayed at the Battle of Fallujah, the Army's legacy is a testament to its steadfast commitment to duty and its integral role within the broader Joint Force.

Happy Birthday to the U.S. Army! As the oldest branch of the U.S. military, the Army has stood as a pillar of strength and resilience since its inception 249 years ago. Throughout its storied history, the Army has exemplified the values of dedication and courage. From the Battle of Saratoga, often regarded as the turning point of the Revolutionary War, to the heroic endeavors of D-Day and the bravery and selflessness displayed at the Battle of Fallujah, the Army's legacy is a testament to its steadfast commitment to duty and its integral role within the broader Joint Force.

STRONGER TOGETHER | As leaders in today's interconnected world, it's imperative that we recognize the significance of sustaining support for Ukraine. The Ukraine Defense Contact Group stands as a model for international collaboration, driving immediate impact through united action. Our support transcends solidarity—it’s a strategic imperative that’s vital to our national security. Left unchecked, Russian aggression not only threatens the sovereignty of Ukraine but also sets a dangerous precedent for authoritarian regimes worldwide. This underscores the critical need for a unified and robust response. The repercussions of global events extend far beyond borders, impacting us all. By standing together and reinforcing international norms, we pave the way for a safer tomorrow.

Military service is a family business, and understanding and addressing the needs of our military families is vital. Quality of Service efforts support and enable our Service members by providing them the means and capability to hone their warfighting skill and be ready when the Nation calls. Quality of Life investments support our Service members when they are outside of work and take care of their families. These investments are truly mission critical. We may recruit the Service member, but we retain the family. Military and veteran service organizations play a crucial role in Quality of Service and Quality of Life efforts. Together, as leaders, we must be committed to improving both. It is our obligation take care of Service members and their families to ensure their success and to create an environment where they can reach their full potential. Work done in the communities where we live not only improves Quality of Life for military families, but also improves Quality of Life for the many other families in the community, leaving a lasting impact for both our military families and the local community—a win-win.

June 6, 2024 marks the 80th Anniversary of D-Day and Operation Overlord. Normandy stands as a crucial lesson in leadership, courage, and the strategic value of unity. It reminds us that when like-minded Nations come together for a just cause, the tide of history can be turned. This battle's significance reaches beyond its military success; it teaches the enduring power of collaborative effort and shared sacrifice in the face of tyranny. May Normandy continue to inspire current and future leaders in all fields to value the principles of freedom and resolve above all.