David Hardt's Report

Editor's Note: David Hardt serves with Fort Lewis's 3rd Stryker Brigade Combat Team in Baghdad.

Change of Command

I can’t imagine the anxiety that an individual man may endure when leading a company of men into combat. Despite how many times you have been to combat there’s always that unknown factor. How are my men going to do? Did I execute proper training for their overall success? I am sure there’s so much more, but I wouldn’t want to speculate.

I remember the day Capt. Rowland, now a major, came to our company. 1st Sgt. Mapes called a formation, and we all ran downstairs wondering who the new commander was. As usual, we stood in formation till the first sergeant called us into a circle formation. Doing this makes the conversation more personal. 1st Sgt. Mapes gave the changeover speech, and we all listened intently. 1st Sgt. Mapes, now a sergeant major, had a way of communicating that was mystifying. Standing by the first sergeant stood Capt. Rowland with his hands behind his back and with his hat tilted down and his face solid as a rock. Capt. Rowland was prior service enlisted, so he had been on both sides of the fence, giving him a better perspective on what a normal grunt goes through and what he needs to succeed on the unpredictable battlefield.

For the rest of David's column, click here

Comments

[Allan Whitney]

The Change of Command report was one of the finest articles I've ever read. Thank you for sharing it via your Blog. How do you find the time to write so much and so well?

[David B Hardt (*The Writer)]

Change of command comment:
to: Allan whitney;\
When I write an article it is usually when everone is sleeping. I have a note pad and paper where ever I go. As soon as something important or news worthy happens I quickly anitate the keys points. Description, emotion, and are place in time.
Writing is always 2nd on my duty list. The mission is first and for most. When I write I take alot of time to get the proper information, I investigate and get the best possibly source. All my articles are put together with the mens safty in mind.I love to write, but you must understand that when I write, every word is looked at and scrutinzed. I have good leaders that give me direction and support my passion.
I will openly admit that when I finish an article and send it to the paper I am always nervous. You just don't know how people are going to preceive your writing. I have my critics around the country, they email me all the time. When I read those emails I feel like I have brought light to those that don't know.
I am not the best writer in the world and I have so much to learn. I thank everyone out there for there support.

If you have any more questions hit me up
coachdave25@msn.com

Oh by the way I am going on home on leave in a couple days, so I will be getting a out a story on that.

thanks
David B. Hardt
(*The Writer)