Why do today’s ‘standards’ appear to often clash or countermand yesterday’s values?

CPT Richard Riley — Sun, 15 Nov 2015 13:44:07 -0500

Every human ages at the same rate, one day at a time. Our younger military members have grown up in an age of astounding technology that many older generation members were not influenced by. New recruits and twenty-something’s are immersed in all these technology influences almost from birth and do not know a life without them. Seasoned members are slowly introduced to these newfound future conveniences but have been grounded with ‘old world’ values to balance.

Multiple threads on these pages allude to today’s standards and question how to acclimate long held values (ethics, moral, character, and others) within these newer parameters. Many issues go back to – just because it can be done, does not mean it should be done. How can seasoned members balance our inner compass and lead our younger members with confidence through the ‘NEW’ Army obstacle course of life?

Response by TSgt David L. made Nov 15 at 2015 1:52 PM

TSgt David L. — Sun, 15 Nov 2015 13:52:54 -0500

You need to set the example, Lead by example. Communicate your expectations and ensure EVERYONE knows and follows your directives.

Response by LTC Yinon Weiss made Nov 15 at 2015 1:57 PM

LTC Yinon Weiss — Sun, 15 Nov 2015 13:57:20 -0500

Values are universal and are just as strong today as they have ever been. Every generation thinks that the next generation has problems and are missing something. This has been the case since the beginning of time. Just look at clashes between parent and children... They always happen and always will, but at some point those children will grow to be the adults and clash with their children. When both sides realize that their way of applying tbings is not the only way, then both sides can learn from each other.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Nov 15 at 2015 6:31 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sun, 15 Nov 2015 18:31:49 -0500

The Army Values were enumerated a couple or three decades ago because the recruits were lacking in values. I think my generation accepted them. However, due to being retired, I don't know what the hang ups for the current generation are.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Nov 15 at 2015 7:26 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sun, 15 Nov 2015 19:26:33 -0500

I personally feel their brains are wired differently to all the electronics at their finger tips. They are boss of electronic media. It is like ADD. The no child left behind attitude has not done them favors. They become parochial in their understanding of their lives and society.