Characteristics of a Real Soldier

SFC Michael Faircloth — Mon, 05 Jan 2015 13:14:26 -0500

The term “professional” is a word that can be defined in many ways by differing points of view. I will be defining it from a military profession or "a profession of arms" point of view. Now we must understand that other professions will have vastly different and varying points of view.

In the profession of arms, it is our duty to do things that other Americans would, or could, not do. We, as Americans, are taught from childhood to respect the lives and freedoms of others. In turn, we want our lives and freedoms respected. This we know as the "Golden Rule". But it is our duty as professional Soldiers to, when necessary, infringe in the highest manner possible on another human being's rights by taking his/her life. The duty to lawfully take another human being's life is reserved only for those who truly understand the burden of that duty. The responsibility this duty brings is the highest, hardest and most challenging responsibility that can be given to anyone. Since the beginning of time, the Soldier has been entrusted with the burden of that duty.

Every leader must understand that it takes a certain type of character to be able to lawfully kill another. They must understand that it is not just about killing, but it is also about sacrifice. As Soldiers, we have a duty to our country to take the lives of our enemies. But the enemies that we are duty-bound to kill also believe that they are just as duty-bound to defend their beliefs with deadly force. The Soldiers selected to carry out the judgment of another man's death must understand that they do this at a risk to their own lives and to the lives of their Brothers around them. It is not until this understanding that they can truly be called Soldiers.

A Soldier is not just a person in uniform - a true Soldier forms specific character traits over the years. These traits in our profession are called "The Army Values". These values are: Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage. It is essential for a Soldier to have these values in order to be entrusted with the responsibility of taking the life of another human being. I'll give you an example using Star Wars. The reason a Jedi must be pure is because of their obligation to the security and welfare of the people they protect from the Dark Side. The Dark Side is the “easy wrong” where leaders conform to the Dark Side when they ignore certain regulations. They ignore these regulations because they think not obeying them is appealing, popular, and will help them gain respect in the eyes of their Soldiers. To help make my point I will use a quote from a SFC on a discussion about professionalism, "I enforce the regulations, without complaining to my subordinates […] I follow regulations not because I believe in them but because I believe in my job as an NCO, if that makes sense".

The regulations that have been placed on Soldiers have not been placed there to annoy those who think they know what being a Soldier is really about. They have been placed there to measure one's ability to conform to and maintain the values expected of us as Soldiers. If every person in uniform were loyal, would there be a need for EO? If every person in uniform understood his or her obligation to duty, would there be AWOLS or prisoner abuse such as Abu Ghraib? If every person in uniform had respect, would the SHARP Program need to exist? If every person in uniform provided selfless service, would there be need for an Army Team Building? If every person in uniform had integrity, would there be an 8th Troop Leading Procedure? If every person in uniform had honor, would there be punishments for stolen valor? And finally if every person in uniform had personal courage, I wouldn't be writing this.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 6 at 2015 12:38 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 06 Jan 2015 00:38:31 -0500

SFC Faircloth, this was very well said. You made several great points, but I think I like your last paragraph the most.

I don't think the military is any worst than it was in the past. Especially with hearing the stories of what happened in the 70's and 80's. That does not excuse anyone's behavior though. I think if we spent more time "breaking" Soldiers down and building them back up focused on the Army Values, we may have fewer incidents. However that doesn't happen. We have a culture in the military now of individuals. Although there are those amongst the leadership and the led who strive to build the team and do the right things.

But until people at all levels stop wanting to be individuals and thinking they shouldn't have to adhere to that regulation, whatever that one is, we will never get to what you spoke about in your last paragraph.

Response by SGT Michael Glenn made Jan 6 at 2015 11:24 AM

SGT Michael Glenn — Tue, 06 Jan 2015 11:24:08 -0500

Through out my career I saw many Senior NCO's and officers who did not display : Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage. .And yet they were soldiers who held command positions and hid behind rank while destroying others careers because they did not serve with : Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage. Because they held the rank and had their noses so far up someone elses ass or lied their ass's off when SHTF they were allowed to remain in their positions and keep doing damage with in the ranks so I for one have a hard time understanding why : Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage. would be listed when all it would take to describe the characteristics of a soldier would be Honesty (not only to ones self, but to others as well and intestinal fortitude.

Response by SGT Michael Glenn made Jan 6 at 2015 11:30 AM

SGT Michael Glenn — Tue, 06 Jan 2015 11:30:41 -0500

Isnt this Guys arm in the wrong position for a proper salute???? shouldnt he have his elbow at a 90 deg angle parallel to his shoulder? Or is it just the angle the pic was taken???? looks to me like the elbow should be higher and more to the rear, or has the salute also changed over the years as well??? Damn Im getting old !!!!!

Response by SGT Michael Glenn made Jan 6 at 2015 11:35 AM

SGT Michael Glenn — Tue, 06 Jan 2015 11:35:34 -0500

No...he deff has the salute messed up!!!this coming from a High ranking officer who would throw the book at a enlisted for the very same thing????? Could this be what I was referring to in my comment made in regards to this thread??? His hand is coming UP to his eyes instead of coming from the RIGHT , or maybe he was attempting to test his shades to see how impact resistance they are??? Damn am I bored !!!!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 6 at 2015 2:50 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 06 Jan 2015 14:50:26 -0500

SFC Faircloth,
Wow, it is amazing how I stumbled on this topic. I recently had to write a 5000 word essay on What A Complete Soldier is. I am new to the Army and I am just about to PCS from my very f first duty station, so there are a many things I do have to learn. Sometimes my civilian ways get the best of me. But what I learned from writing the essay and what is almost parallel to yours is, there is no substitution for a Soldier that lives and breathes the The Soldier's Guide, the Soldiers/ NCO Creed, The Army Values and the Warriors Ethos. I have to admit all the rule and regulations sometimes get under my skin. Some of them, I listen/read them and ask why? But then I have to remind myself that, just like there are house rules to protect or children, these are the same rules put in place to protect the Name, the Appearance and the Soldiers of the US Military. I completely agree with you. We are not perfect, we are all human and have out faults, but there are just somethings that should just be, but aren't.

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Jan 6 at 2015 9:03 PM

CPT Jack Durish — Tue, 06 Jan 2015 21:03:08 -0500

There are many points in SFC Faircloth's essay that I would like to address, but I will focus on just one so that its import is not lost. The SFC avers that "... it is our duty to do things that other Americans would,or could, not do. " Really? Is that a statement of intent or fact?

I fear that it may be fact, that most Americans could not or would not defend their nation or their community. Sadly, not even their families or themselves. But that's another issue.

However, I don't believe that it is the intent of a free and self-governing people. All who would live as free men and women must be prepared to defend themselves. History is replete with examples of people who depended upon mercenaries to provide for their defense and, ultimately, fell victim to the mercenaries themselves.

A standing armed force is necessary to provide a buffer against an unexpected or sudden out break of war, to provide a training cadre for citizen soldiers, and to develop the weapons and tactics that are needed to successfully prosecute war. However, the ultimate defense of the nation must vest in its citizens.

I know it has been popular since the advent of nuclear weapons and rapid delivery systems to say that the next war would be fought and decided long before the citizens could be mobilized. However, nuclear war is not the only threat. Terrorists may infiltrate traditional lines of defense and attack citizens long before the military or even law enforcement can respond. Thus, citizens should be organized, trained, and equipped to defend themselves and their communities.

Such militias may also respond to natural disasters. We would not have seen citizens sitting on their roof tops waiting to be rescued following Hurricane Katrina had the government reconstituted Civil Defense following the terrorist attack of 9/11. Sadly, the Administration perpetrated the myth that only big government can take care of citizens and they are expected to hunker down and wait to be saved. Sad...

Thus, to me, a "real soldier" is one who is physically fit, trained, armed, and equipped to defend himself and fight as a member of a team of other real soldiers to defend his community and his nation. They may be members of a standing army, a state guard or a militia. Keep in mind that militias are not only recognized valid organizations, but also mentioned more frequently in the Constitution than any of the branches of government. They were obviously on the minds of the Founders and should be on our minds as well.

Response by SSG David Hudgings made Jan 7 at 2015 8:28 PM

SSG David Hudgings — Wed, 07 Jan 2015 20:28:51 -0500

SFC Faircloth,
I enjoyed reading your comments especially the traits that make a soldier. However, some of our forefathers did not want to go to war with the British but once they were forced in a corner they had no choice. A soldier, marine, airman, or sailor are not the only ones that have the mentality to kill an individual or do something heroic. A civilian will do the same thing if that individual is pushed passed their braking point. Not all traits of a soldier is taught. There are some that are hereditary from family members of past generations or just how they were raised. I physically know many people; civilian and military that will kill someone if he had to. But, to add to what you said in your post, the civilian population has a major problem fulfilling the act of killing and that is the dealing with the justice system of this fine nation. The average person is more terrified of the ramifications of their choices they make rather than reacting to something that can be avoided. I spent 17 years in Special Operations and there were many times I second guess myself. But, it was not just my training that took over, it was a decision that had to be made quickly. It was either me or the bad guy. The bad guy lost every time. However, I know many times that my training took over and I accomplished my mission. What I am trying to say the military are not the only people that will kill because of his/her training. I have been retired for five years and there is nothing I want do for my family. I will do what it takes to ensure their survival. But, I have family members that have never served and they have the same mentality. A soldier that is following the ROE does not have to worry about the laws of man. They have to deal with the inner demons. If you killed someone and not dealing with the inner demons, you basically do not have a conscience. I know there are many people that will disagree with me but you push someone to their braking point, there is no telling what they will do. I personally know an individual that is very apprehensive and quiet but it was on a particular mission where he accomplished several acts of heroism and rewarded accordingly. For that individual it was a combination of training and instinct. In closing, I really enjoyed your post.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 7 at 2015 9:44 PM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 07 Jan 2015 21:44:30 -0500

THESE ARE THE CHARACTERISTICS OF A NCO...MARINE CORPS VERSION

An acronym I remember from my USMC days that I still apply today:
JJ DID TIE BUCKLE

J - JUSTICE
J - JUDGEMENT

D - DECISIVENESS
I - INITIATIVE
D - DEPENDABILITY

T -TACT
I - INTEGRITY
E- ENTHUSIASM

B - BEARING
U - UNSELFISHNESS
C - COURAGE
K - KNOWLEDGE
L - LOYALTY
E- ENDURANCE

THE TRAITS FURTHER DEFINED:

JUSTICE
Definition: Justice is defined as the practice of being fair and consistent. A just person gives consideration to each side of a situation and bases rewards or punishments on merit.

Suggestions for Improvement: Be honest with yourself about why you make a particular decision. Avoid favoritism. Try to be fair at all times and treat all things and people in an equal manner.

JUDGMENT
Definition: Judgment is your ability to think about things clearly, calmly, and in an orderly fashion so that you can make good decisions.

Suggestions for Improvement: You can improve your judgment if you avoid making rash decisions. Approach problems with a common sense attitude.

DEPENDABILITY
Definition: Dependability means that you can be relied upon to perform your duties properly. It means that you can be trusted to complete a job. It is the willing and voluntary support of the policies and orders of the chain of command. Dependability also means consistently putting forth your best effort in an attempt to achieve the highest standards of performance.

Suggestions for Improvement: You can increase your dependability by forming the habit of being where you're supposed to be on time, by not making excuses and by carrying out every task to the best of your ability regardless of whether you like it or agree with it.

INITIATIVE
Definition: Initiative is taking action even though you haven't been given orders. It means meeting new and unexpected situations with prompt action. It includes using resourcefulness to get something done without the normal material or methods being available to you.

Suggestions for Improvement: To improve your initiative, work on staying mentally and physically alert. Be aware of things that need to be done and then to do them without having to be told.

DECISIVENESS
Definition: Decisiveness means that you are able to make good decisions without delay. Get all the facts and weight them against each other. By acting calmly and quickly, you should arrive at a sound decision. You announce your decisions in a clear, firm, professional manner.

Suggestions for Improvement: Practice being positive in your actions instead of acting half-heartedly or changing your mind on an issue.

TACT
Definition: Tact means that you can deal with people in a manner that will maintain good relations and avoid problems. It means that you are polite, calm, and firm.

Suggestions for Improvement: Begin to develop your tact by trying to be courteous and cheerful at all times. Treat others as you would like to be treated.

INTEGRITY
Definition: Integrity means that you are honest and truthful in what you say or do. You put honesty, sense of duty, and sound moral principles above all else.

Suggestions for Improvement: Be absolutely honest and truthful at all times. Stand up for what you believe to be right.

ENTHUSIASM
Definition: Enthusiasm is defined as a sincere interest and exuberance in the performance of your duties. If you are enthusiastic, you are optimistic, cheerful, and willing to accept the challenges.

Suggestions for Improvement: Understanding and belief in your mission will add to your enthusiasm for your job. Try to understand why even uninteresting jobs must be done.

BEARING
Definition: Bearing is the way you conduct and carry yourself. Your manner should reflect alertness, competence, confidence, and control.

Suggestions for Improvement: To develop bearing, you should hold yourself to the highest standards of personal conduct. Never be content with meeting only the minimum requirements.

UNSELFISHNESS
Definition: Unselfishness means that you avoid making yourself comfortable at the expense of others. Be considerate of others. Give credit to those who deserve it.

Suggestions for Improvement: Avoid using your position or rank for personal gain, safety, or pleasure at the expensive of others. Be considerate of others.

COURAGE
Definition: Courage is what allows you to remain calm while recognizing fear. Moral courage means having the inner strength to stand up for what is right and to accept blame when something is your fault. Physical courage means that you can continue to function effectively when there is physical danger present.

Suggestions for Improvement: You can begin to control fear by practicing self-discipline and calmness. If you fear doing certain things required in your daily life, force yourself to do them until you can control your reaction.

KNOWLEDGE
Definition: Knowledge is the understanding of a science or art. Knowledge means that you have acquired information and that you understand people. Your knowledge should be broad, and in addition to knowing your job, you should know your unit's policies and keep up with current events.

Suggestions for Improvement: Suggestions for Improvement: Increase your knowledge by remaining alert. Listen, observe, and find out about things you don't understand. Study field manuals and other military literature.

LOYALTY
Definition: Loyalty means that you are devoted to your country, the Corps, and to your seniors, peers, and subordinates. The motto of our Corps is Semper Fidelis!, (Always Faithful). You owe unwavering loyalty up and down the chain of command, to seniors, subordinates, and peers.

Suggestions for Improvement: To improve your loyalty you should show your loyalty by never discussing the problems of the Marine Corps or your unit with outsiders. Never talk about seniors unfavorably in front of your subordinates. Once a decision is made and the order is given to execute it, carry out that order willingly as if it were your own.

ENDURANCE
Definition: Endurance is the mental and physical stamina that is measured by your ability to withstand pain, fatigue, stress, and hardship. For example, enduring pain during a conditioning march in order to improve stamina is crucial in the development of leadership.

Suggestions for Improvement: Develop your endurance by engaging in physical training that will strengthen your body. Finish every task to the best of your ability by forcing yourself to continue when you are physically tired and your mind is sluggish.

Response by MSG Greg Kelly made Jan 8 at 2015 9:43 AM

MSG Greg Kelly — Thu, 08 Jan 2015 09:43:57 -0500

SFC Michael Faircloth, This is one of the most insightful writings I have had the pleasure to read in a long while. And no comment I make could make would do it justice, I do believe after reading your paper the reason the military seems to lack the Characteristics of a Real Soldier in some individuals is a direct result of them not being taught the golden rule you mentioned. I believe for a professional soldier to be created there had to be a base from which to start. These professional soldiers were and are taught that all important Golden Rule

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 8 at 2015 2:29 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 Jan 2015 14:29:07 -0500

I agree with your points here. I like your reference to the ability to soldiers to react to a regulation and their ability to confirm. We have to deal with many regulations but no matter how we feel about them we have to obey the orders from those that are appointed above us.

On a side note. If you have any advice for an officer that is looking to go to selection it would be much appreciated.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 8 at 2015 11:18 PM

CSM Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 Jan 2015 23:18:00 -0500

SFC Michael Faircloth,
I read this entire thread with great interest but have to admit I had mixed emotions.

The views you expressed made me wish I had not been medically retired because there are still senior NCO's out there serving that 'get it' and you reminded me I'm not there to serve with you and try to make a difference. On the other hand, the views you expressed let me know I can rest easy in my retirement knowing there are NCO's out there still serving like you who will make a difference - I have to believe. I wish I could buy you a drink, but the best I can do is raise a glass in toast - my sincerest respect. God speed.

Response by MAJ George Hamilton made Jun 9 at 2015 2:08 PM

MAJ George Hamilton — Tue, 09 Jun 2015 14:08:25 -0400

Fantastic post.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 10 at 2015 9:27 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 10 Jun 2015 09:27:07 -0400

Great post. Thanks.

CJCS - GEN Dempsey's take on the military profession.
http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/concepts/white_papers/cjcs_wp_profession.pdf

Interesting bibliography on the military profession from the Army War College:
http://www.carlisle.army.mil/library/bibs/Officership.pdf

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jun 10 at 2015 4:41 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Wed, 10 Jun 2015 16:41:38 -0400

I like to think we are the sharpened steel and the keeper of the nation's values.

Response by SFC William Stephens made Jun 8 at 2017 11:34 AM

SFC William Stephens — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 11:34:49 -0400

A MOLD that can't be BROKEN!