Afjrotc Cadet Leadership Essay

Being an AFJROTC cadet leader is challenging. As Wing Commander of our 250 member Cadet Wing, I had to address an ethical dilemma; leaders dating subordinates; that almost destroyed our drill team. In the US Military, unprofessional relationships are frowned upon as they adversely affect the chain of command due to favoritism. In our unit, unprofessional relationships are discouraged for the same reason. When cadets perceive a promotion given to someone based, not on merit, but on their relationship with the leader, the units’ morale suffers. When this occurs our common goal to achieve great things is harmed. The unit can become fractured, and the sense of accomplishment reduced, thus harming our collective strength. This dilemma brought severe consternation to the program and relationships were fractured. In an attempt to maintain cadets’ respect for, and commitment to, the program, I used all resources, including involving …show more content…
We were able to create team unity based on proven protocols and practices learned throughout our AFJROTC careers. RESULTS: Cadets learned valuable lessons on interpersonal relationships as well as embracing and cultivating a professional code of conduct. Although, we were all challenged, we proved up to the task. In the end the entire team benefited from this crisis. We’re taught to “practice what we preach” and that’s exactly what my aim was; lead from the front and allow cadets to see their errors and see where they needed to change. Learning invaluable lessons from AFJROTC, Commander’s Camps and General Tommy Franks 4-Star Leadership Camp, I was well prepared for this dilemma. I praised individuals in public and corrected them in private, facilitating a great learning environment. In going back to the basics, I reinforced the Air Force Core Values of “Integrity First,” “Service Before Self,” and Excellence In All We Do.