In your opinion, if someone does not desire to command a company, does that make him or her less of a leader?

I think there are different types of people for different jobs. Someone who is an outstanding commander, may not necessarily be a good staff officer or vice-versa. But there are some who are well suited at both jobs. Do I think someone who doesn't desire command is any less of a leader, not really. He may just be a different kind of leader.

I know I was terrified about taking a company command when I was a captain. I didn't think I would be very good at it. But when my husband took a command (we were not married at the time) and I was offered a command 6 months later, I thought maybe I would be ok having him as a sounding board since we were both dealing with similar issues. It helped, but more importantly, I found out I could be a better commander than I thought possible. Granted, I wasn't perfect, and I did make mistakes, but when I left almost 3 years later, it was to take a second command.

My point is, an individual may not think they are cut out for command, but until they get into it, they will never know for sure.

Every commissioned officer should seek command at some point in his or her career. It is not wise to command too soon. Career progression is key. Although not a requirement, one should seek primary leadership positions such as platoon leader, company executive officer, and battalion staff officer, prior to commanding. The necessary leadership skills and leadership traits to command successfully are developed in those junior leadership positions. A company commander that understands battalion functions S-1, S-2, S-3, and S-4, and can effectively coordinate the operations of his company with those primary battalion functions, is a benefit to the battalion. The officer basic and the officer advanced courses are beneficial. An officer should seek tactical and technical proficiency prior to commanding in order to ensure a successful command experience and to ensure the safety and well being of our soldiers.

You can be a leader and not have command. Some people are better at staff jobs than being in charge of a lot of troops. Command takes a lot out of a person and not everyone can handle it. It would make me question why that person choose to be an officer and what he/she expected as far as career progression is concerned.