The CDL School & Troops Into Transportation’s Post

I'm thrilled to share that this past week marked a significant expansion of my role as a combat instructor within the military community. I was honored to be called upon by 2nd Battalion 7th Marines stationed at the 29 Palms Marine Air Ground Station. Alongside my dedicated fellow instructor, we took charge of overseeing a pivotal training session for graduates of the Advanced Anti-Tank Missile Gunner Course (AATMGC). These accomplished Marines, whom I once had the privilege of instructing, undertook a new responsibility – training their fellow 0311 junior Marines. This shift in leadership highlighted the exceptional abilities and knowledge that our anti-tank missile specialists bring to the table. In the realm of combat strategy, our role as 0352 Anti-Tank Missilemen is paramount. Despite our smaller numbers and attachment to line companies, we wield substantial firepower that can be game-changing on the battlefield. Our recent initiative took this notion to heart, focusing on expanding the skill set of our fellow infantry Marines. The crucial importance of this endeavor cannot be overstated: by enabling our peers to proficiently utilize our weapon systems, we're safeguarding against vulnerabilities and enhancing the overall mission. Traditionally, our graduates have excelled in disseminating their acquired knowledge amongst their peers. Yet, the recent transformation at 2/7 demonstrates a deeper commitment – they've proactively taken on the task of training 0311 Marines to operate our anti-tank weaponry. This proactive stance aligns with our mission to contribute to the success of operations and support the commander's intent. Our efforts go beyond the tactical – they are deeply rooted in strategic planning. The recent strides made by 2/7 underscore how essential it is for various units to collaborate and enhance their capabilities. The aspiration is simple: every 0352 desires a tighter integration with the infantry units we support. Understanding our potential and how we can positively impact mission outcomes is pivotal for optimal planning and execution. The journey of 2/7 over the past few months is a testament to what can be achieved when units come together to amplify their strengths. This initiative isn't just about training; it's about instigating a paradigm shift in how our skills are perceived and integrated into broader military strategies. As we move forward, I hope to see more units embracing similar approaches, fostering a stronger unity within our military community. The impact we can collectively create is immeasurable, and by working hand-in-hand, we are better prepared to navigate challenges and seize victory on the battlefield.

Ah, the young Jedi learning to fly the X-wing fighter. Not really. This is me sitting in a Cobra helicopter in the mid '80s as I was learning to be a mechanic/crew chief with overall responsibility for the flight/combat readiness of the aircraft as my job in the Army. I learned many good things about duty, discipline and taking ownership for your actions. Some of these lessons I learned the easy way and some the hard way. Taking ownership for your actions. Today, the concept of taking ownership or being responsible for a particular expected outcome seems to be something that I spend a fair amount of time mentoring younger team members on. I often refer to the principles covered in the book, Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin, to help. If you haven't read it, I highly recommend it. Basically, it's about the principles U.S. Navy Seals use to achieve mission success. And, no...being in a leadership position isn't required to get goodness out of reading this book. Regardless of how important you think your job is, or what your title is, or how much money you make; if you were hired to do a job, in addition to taking great pride in your work, take extreme ownership for even the most menial tasks. I promise...if you do, you will stand out...people will take notice and when the time is right, great opportunities will come your way. #extremeownership #jockowillink #leifbabin #blessed #hpproud #thehpway

If you are in the process of leaving the Armed Forces, there is 0% chance you'll get a job on Civi Street... That is exactly what I thought 12 months ago when I took my final steps out of the base as a Matelot. I thought, how on earth is a helicopter crewman (In training!) relatable to any job in the civilian world... But then I zoomed out and thought about the skills I'd collected, the people I'd met and the lessons I'd overcome rather than the nitty-gritty of the job role. You can LEARN a new skill or industry, but you can't be taught how to be a genuine person with the characteristics that companies want. When leaving the forces or entering a new industry, it’s very easy to downplay your capabilities. But look at the transferable skills you have collected, the experiences you’ve conquered, the lessons you’ve learnt. I went from a baby dope on a rope in the Navy to a telecommunications engineer based on transferable skills and attitude. Believe in yourself, and sell your capabilities. YOU are the product that companies want. #exserviceman #militaryleaver #forces #fightingfit #exnavy #serviceleaver #exarmy #militarycoach #civvystreet 

Hear from Nathan Gray, our new Head of Learning & Development and former F35 test pilot, on his post-military career and plans for future Padpilot developments. New blog here: https://lnkd.in/eWRuNp6W #aviation #pilottraining #ATPL #aviationnews

"Soccer was in hibernation, kinda bear-y slow for five years. 🐻 Who shook things up? Jet Fighter Pilots and boxers with their roar-some moves! Aided by our very own Navy Pilot ranger, React3on Trainer emerged from the cave, teaching those wild skills." #usa #teambuilding #motivation #youthdevelopment #sportsmanagement #salesdevelopment #work #success #academia #sportsbusiness

IDENTITY Our identity is everything to us in our brand as Royal Marines 1. “Civvy 2 Commando” - The beginning of the transition from being a civilian to becoming a Commando. The very start of the journey is now, before you’ve even applied, before you’ve even stepped foot on Lympstone Commando train station. We want to get you so far ahead of the game that we start early. Civvy 2 Commando 2. “C2C” - We thought about this long and hard at the beginning and wanted something close to where our own personal stories began. “CTC”. Or, the “Commando Training Centre”. This is where boys become men, and where you must be successful to earn the coveted green beret. 3. The Commando Dagger - The infamous dagger of the Royal Marines. Worn on the sleeve of those who have completed Commando training, carried on the body armour of many Marine on the frontline, tattooed on the arm of many a Bootneck. This is our heritage and what it was all about from a very young age. 4. The Arch Shape - Shaped in the style of the flashes worn on the shoulders of every Royal Marine. They have recently changed in shape with the new red text coloured flashes (but we prefer the OG’s). 5. “99.99% Did Not Prepare” - There was an old advertisement slogan for the Royal Marines that read “99.99% need not apply” which alluded to the fact that the first time success rate was 0.01% and if you did not posses the mindset required, don’t bother filling in the forms. Our take on this is with real preparation, both physically in terms of fitness, mentally in terms of mindset and homework on military knowledge, what to expect in basic training and accountability & support from a Commando, anyone can prepare for Commando Training, and those who do fail simply weren’t properly prepared. What is your identity? And what are the characteristics that you would use to describe yourself? 99.99% Did Not Prepare… Don’t let it be you. ⚔️ #marines #royalmarines #royalmarinescommando #commando

"Soccer was in hibernation, kinda bear-y slow for five years. 🐻 Who shook things up? Jet Fighter Pilots and boxers with their roar-some moves! Aided by our very own Navy Pilot ranger, React3on Trainer emerged from the cave, teaching those wild skills." #usa #teambuilding #motivation #youthdevelopment #sportsmanagement #salesdevelopment #work #success #academia #sportsbusiness

"Soccer was in hibernation, kinda bear-y slow for five years. 🐻 Who shook things up? Jet Fighter Pilots and boxers with their roar-some moves! Aided by our very own Navy Pilot ranger, React3on Trainer emerged from the cave, teaching those wild skills." #usa #teambuilding #motivation #youthdevelopment #sportsmanagement #salesdevelopment #work #success #academia #sportsbusiness

The Sullivan Cup best tank and Bradley crew competition, hosted biennially by the U.S. Army Maneuver Center of Excellence, home to the U.S. Army Armor School, will be held April 29 to May 3. During the competition, armored vehicle crews will compete against one another in technical, physical, and mental challenges — all vying for the prestigious title of best armor crew in the world. This year’s Sullivan Cup competition consists of crews from various U.S. Army and international partner armored formations. Competition events are held in a controlled, high-pressure environment where crews endure and overcome physical and mental strain while emphasizing mastery of individual tasks and a range of maneuver, sustainment, and gunnery skills crucial to combat effectiveness. Competition success hinges on the training provided at competitors’ home stations by unit non-commissioned officers where competitors serve in the roles of master gunners, tank commanders, and as advisers to the crews. Competition tank commanders oversee crew training, ensuring proficiency in assigned roles and conduct cross-training in alternate positions. The Sullivan Cup provides an opportunity for crews to validate tactics, techniques, and procedures, evaluate the latest doctrine, highlight Army Armor initiatives, and build esprit de corps through competition and camaraderie. Points are awarded based on factors such as time, precision, and successful completion of each task. #military #defense #defence #militaryleak https://lnkd.in/gCM846Jv

"Soccer was in hibernation, kinda bear-y slow for five years. 🐻 Who shook things up? Jet Fighter Pilots and boxers with their roar-some moves! Aided by our very own Navy Pilot ranger, React3on Trainer emerged from the cave, teaching those wild skills." #usa #teambuilding #motivation #youthdevelopment #sportsmanagement #salesdevelopment #work #success #academia #sportsbusiness