BL36: Memorial Day

Bold Leadership podcast

As some of you already know I am Dave Evans, better known as Snapper by my fellow airmen. I served for over 23 years in the United States Air Force and now I help companies solve complex problems by using the lessons learned during my time following and leading in the world’s greatest Air Force

Memorial Day is a time to reflect and remember. Over 6,600 sailors, soldiers, marines and airmen have paid the ultimate price to ensure your freedom over the last 16 years.

In my opinion, Americans have lost sight of their role in our nation and frankly the media is primarily to blame. We cast stones at people who do not share the same opinion as we do. Many feel that it is their god given right to criticize and complain while offering no solution. They do not take the time to listen to other people's opinion, have an honest debate and determine for themselves how to proceed. This goes against the very fabric of our great nation. The media continually labels american citizens as racists, bigots and greedy bastards who care for nothing other than themselves. This is just not true. Our nation is filled with hundreds of thousands of great americans who are willing to sacrifice their life for your freedom. I want you to take this weekend, look in the mirror and become part of the solution.

Our service members make little to no money, they write a check that when cashed cost them their lives. They do it because they believe in the values and foundation defined by our forefathers. They believe in the mission and know that their fellow service men and women share the same beliefs. They are taught from day one to find solutions for problems. These men and women are the greatest innovators in the world.

It is time to take a stand. It is time to start acting like Americans. You need to look in the mirror and see if you are part of the problem or part of the solution. Our brothers and sisters who gave their life for our freedom expect more of us. Stop buying into the negative news. Stop jumping on the bandwagon with little to no facts and stop acting as judge and jury without first understanding other people’s perspective. None of us are as smart as we think we are.

I went to one of my favorite commander’s retirement ceremony last week and he reminded us all of how precious life is. He also shared a very important lesson that he learned while at pilot training some 27 years ago. Heinous followed this lesson his entire career. During preflight for his first T-38 mission he watched as one of his classmates crashed at the end of the runway. The plane exploded and both crewmembers were killed. His instructor calmly looked at him said take a look at what just happened, paused and then told Heinous to get back to his preflight. Many would be offended by the actions of this instructor, but the reality is that bad things happen and we are expected to complete the job at hand. This is an extremely valuable leadership lesson. I mean how many times has something bad happened at work and you have shut down or more likely you faced a challenge, threw your hands in the air and said this challenge can’t be overcome? I am certain that this happens more than you would like to admit. Lesson #1 Don’t just identify problems, offer solutions.

As we are eating our favorite bar-b-que, hanging out by the pool and sharing a cold beer with friends this weekend thousands will be away from their families. They are living in tents, bunkers and countries filled with people trying to kill them. You are living in one of the safest places on earth. You don’t speak to your neighbors and don’t cherish how fortunate you are. I