Leadership is trait that comes naturally to some, while others have to work at it.

To be an effective leader you must find a style that works for your profession. There
are so many different styles of leadership that it is difficult to identify specific
characteristics that makes a leader great. I believe the key to be a successful
leader is to be well rounded and adaptive. There have been leaders in the past that
have been great and effective leaders. No two paths are the same, each person
chooses a style that fits either their situation or their personality.
My leadership map has several key points that I know will have impact on the
logistical footprint for years to come as have a continued presence in Iraqi. Future
commanders will have the ability to leverage all assets within their area of
operation. It will also increase and cement reporting process through all levels of
leadership from the tactical to the strategic. While the changes effect a wide
picture it is intended to have an impact at the soldier level. It is about equipping
the soldier with the proper equipment and equipment that is fully operational.
Throughout my time here so far I feel that I have made an impact. For the
soldiers of my MST they have adjusted well. I had Private First Class Ortiz come up
and thank me for the impact that I have had in the short period of time. He gave a
7/8 wrench from his tool box to remember him by, it is moments like that leaders do
what they do. As the theater matures services are going to be moved from soldier
ran to contractor ran. We are serving as a bridging strategy in the mean time.
The leadership map was another method to identify a gap or shortcoming in a
system. Regardless if that is in a school environment or in the Army. It is way to
ensure leaders are making a difference in their areas of work. My leadership map
like USMs knowledge in action (KIA) start with identifying a challenge or problem.

In my leadership map I created a demand that needed change. In USMs KIA you
move to clarify, improve, and examine your action research. In the map model you
are researching through actions and evidence. Both the map model and KIA have
an implementation stage were you apply your research to your subjects or
environment. Knowledge in action is a cycle that is continuous, after you review the
results you either begin a new premise or you go back and redefine your focus
statement based on your results.
The National Board Professional Teaching Standards are standards set in
place for teachers to follow. My map engages on several core propositions. My
action research focuses on changing a systematic process. Making changes for the
improvement of operations or the improving of reading levels are similar. They both
seek to improve the organization at its core. The second is teachers are
committed to students and their learning I see this is the single most important
propositions. It is no surprise that it comes at the top of the NBPTS standards.
When you are committed to teaching and passing along the information for others is
important. Regardless if that is in gym, conference room, or the battlefield strong
teachers, coaches, and mentors are needed for any organization to be successful.
For many professions the learning not only comes in the classroom but it also comes
from the field.
My leadership map relates to the USMs Graduate Program Outcomes (GPO) by
emulating standard number five performing critical analysis and reflective
process. In the current positon that I work in it is critical to be able to think at a
different level. I was not used to being at this high of an echelon so it has made me
remain abreast and fluent on changes happening three levels below me. My action
research also aligns with fulling professional responsibilities with honesty and

integrity my predecessor quit and left theater. He left the section responsible for
his duties, without conducting a proper transfer. When my time comes to leave this
place I will ensure that my replacement is fully in place and prepared to fill the
requirements as necessary.
This learning experience has reenergized me to remain a critical asset to my
organization. It has taught me to remain flexible as things change rapidly when you
are in theater. When I was in Kuwait I could not visualize the complete picture. I had
to physically see it to understand the severity of situation. As a leader with the MST
it taught me that the most important aspect of war are the soldiers. They are
entrusted in our hands. Entrusted to have the equipment necessary to accomplish
the mission we place on them. Being able to be part of that will not be easily
erased.