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704th Military Intelligence Brigade theVoice Vol 3 Issue 1 Winter 2015

We are 704th The purpose of the Brigade Health Promotion Council (HPC) is to instill a feeling of pride, fellowship, and common loyalty shared by all Soldiers, Civilians, and Family Members of the 704th MI Brigade.

Staying true to the motto “Here and Everywhere,” the HPC supports brigade personnel both CONUS and OCONUS, supporting Army and joint commands throughout the world.

The Brigade HPC seeks to build and maintain resilience, to improve unit readiness and to reinforce the Army Profession.

A Call to Arms: Why we serve

Birds of Prey tear up

competition in combatives tournament

The Army Profession

The VOICE │ 3

4 ... The Command Team’s corner

6 ... Customs, courtesies and the practice of our faith

8 ... The Army profession

10 ... Social media in our personal lives

12 ... Winter sports safety

14 ... A call to arms: Why we serve

The Voice Newsletter is published quarterly by the 704th Military Intelligence Brigade, Fort George G. Meade, Md.

The Voice is an official command information publication authorized under the provisions of AR 360-1. The newsletter serves the members of the 704th Military Intelligence Brigade, and families. Circulation is 250 printed copies per issue.

Opinions expressed herein do not necessarily represent those of Headquarters 704th Military Intelligence Brigade or the Department of the Army. All photos published in The Voice are U.S. Army photos unless otherwise stated.

Col. Michele H. BredenkampBrigade Commander

Command Sgt. MajLawrence G. Hoke Command Sergeant Major

Sgt. Amy L. ChristophersonPublic Affairs NCO

Sgt. 1st Class Juan C. MunozMultimedia Illustrator

Contents16 ... Birds of Prey tear up competition in combatives tournament

18 ... Why we serve

20 ... Recognizing and rewarding your Army Unit Volunteers

22 ... Black History Month - A lesson in values based leadership

24 ... Here and Everywhere

Spc. Rashan Moss, with Headquarters and Operations Company, 742nd Military Intelligence Battalion plays the Call the Mess at the brigade’s holiday ball Dec. 5. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Amy Christopherson / Released)

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The Command Team’s Corner

This issue of “The Voice” highlights our investment in the Army Profession and focuses on the many reasons why we serve. For some Soldiers, serving in the Army is a way to honor family traditions and for others it provides a number of enduring opportunities. Regardless of our initial motivation, each of us assumed the responsibility to support and defend the Constitution, uphold the Army Ethic, live by Army Values, and at all times demonstrate dignity and our respect to others – this is what it means to be an Army Professional.

Thank you for your continued dedication to our Brigade and our Army!

We are Professional – We are 704th – Here and Everywhere!Soldiers, Civilians and Family

Members of the 704th, I appreciate all of your contributions in the past year -- thank you! As we begin a new calendar year, I challenge each of you to consciously reflect on the moral and ethical tenets of our Army values and apply this towards building a more resilient and professional Army Team. As we continue into 2015, we will remain focused not only on executing the mission but also on improving unit and Family readiness and reinforcing our contributions to the Army Profession.

As leaders, our role is to inspire our subordinates to perform to their maximum capacity; communicate effectively; continuously collaborate and maintain transparency; and to remain Leaders of character. For the Brigade Team to remain strong, we must enforce values-based leadership to enhance the well-being of our Soldiers and Civilians, and their Families.

Col. Michele H. Bredenkamp Brigade Commander

Command Sgt. Maj Lawrence G. HokeCommand Sergeant Major

Col. Michele Bredenkamp, commander of the 704th Military Intelligence Brigade, addresses Soldiers after a brigade run Nov. 14 at Fort Meade, Md. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Juan C. Munoz / Released)

Command Sgt. Maj. Lawrence Hoke and Chief Warrant Officer 5 Wendy Wayman, the brigade’s senior warrant officer, greet guests at the Brigade’s New Year’s reception Jan. 10 at Fort Meade, Md. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Juan C. Munoz / Released)

Photo: U.S. Army/ Released


Customs, Courtesies and the Practice of Our Faith

Not long ago, I saw a young Soldier standing the parking lot as the others were quickly loading into their cars to go home. He stood there waiting to present arms to render honors during retreat to music he could barely hear and to our nation’s flag that he could not even see. He was a disciplined Soldier. His discipline showed. He was a professional who took pride in being a Soldier.

A few weeks later our brigade began a discussion on the topic “We are Professional.” Part of our professionalism is demonstrated in our military customs, courtesies and traditions. Some of our traditions have interesting histories. For instance, the salute dates back to

medieval times, when knights would raise their visors to show other knights who they were, and it eventually became a show of respect. We have other traditions in our profession that show respect, like standing in formation at PT to render honors to the flag at reveille or stopping to get out of our vehicles to render honors at retreat.

These traditions and courtesies are important to all branches of the military, and while the traditions may vary from service to service, their need is the same. Courtesies show respect and self-discipline, while traditions are the practices or things we do that have been passed down from generation to generation.

These courtesies and traditions give us our identity as Soldiers, because our traditions connect us to our past. As we practice these courtesies and traditions, we are linked to all the Soldiers of each generation who have served this nation. From the Revolutionary War through today’s conflicts, our military traditions are the common thread. When we look at the Army colors and see the battle streamers, we know we are connected to Soldiers like Joshua Chamberlain, Desmond Doss, Robert Howard, and Salvatore Giunta.

If carrying the colors, saluting and wearing unit patches link us to previous generations of Soldiers, what do the traditions of the Christian Church do? I know there are some who would say, “Well, my church doesn’t ‘do’ tradition.” This is a sad approach to our faith, because it disconnects us from nearly 2000 years of Christian History. And it disconnects us from the heroes of our faith: men and women who stood for the cause of Christ and valiantly gave their lives rather than betray their faith.

While many say they are non-traditional, they do periodically practice the traditions of the sacraments of Holy Communion and Baptism, traditions established by Christ himself and practiced by every generation of Christian since. But is that it? Are those the only traditions we need to practice?

In many churches still today, particularly “historical churches” (Catholic, Orthodox, Anglican as well as other Protestants traditions) there are a variety

of traditions, very similar to our military customs, in place to show respect to God during the service. For instance, in the opening processional of an Anglican service, it is customary for congregants to bow their head to the cross as it passes their row as a reverent acknowledgement of the symbol of Christ. To someone unfamiliar with liturgical worship, the standing, kneeling, bowing and sitting may seem like some form of church gymnastics. Each of these actions, however, serves as way to render honor to God. In addition to elements of the service which are there to show honor during worship, there is also the self-discipline of morning, noon, and evening prayers and scripture readings practiced by many historical

Christian congregations. If you are interested in

worshiping in a manner that is connected to our Christian history please feel free to contact me wherever you are and I can assist in finding you an opportunity to connect with a local church. If you are in the Fort Meade area, I invite you to attend the 8:30 a.m. Protestant Liturgical chapel service at Historic Main Post Chapel of Fort Meade. We follow a liturgy rooted in the earliest known Christian services. We offer communion every Sunday just as the first century Christians did. Please join us as we stand on the shoulders of centuries of great Christian men and women worshipping God and proclaiming the Gospel.

Maj. David L. Ward704th MI Bde. Chaplain



My initial thought of the Army profession was simply that I entered an organization where I could hone self-discipline, learn an occupational specialty, and serve my country. But in the summer of 2012, I was given insight into what the Army Profession was, and I realized how and why our profession works the way it does.

I attended a dinner sponsored by the Pensacola Military Order of the Purple Heart. I was in the middle of reading an excerpt

of the life of a fallen Pensacola Soldier, when a hand was gently placed on my shoulder. Immediately the words, “I am very proud of what you’re doing, son. All of us here are. You should be, too” came from a gentleman my dad’s age. I shook his hand, thanked him for his kindness, then continued reading about this Soldier’s life. Seconds after that encounter, another gentleman asked me if I knew who that man was. I replied in the negative. Little did I know, that the man who thanked me for my service was Medal of Honor recipient, retired command Sgt. Maj. Robert M. Patterson.

Mr. Patterson sat beside me in the dining area and spoke to me about everything except for his military service. He geared the conversation around my interests, my Family, and what I wanted out of my future. I tried to sneak in questions about his time in Vietnam and his actions that lead to him receiving the Medal of Honor. He humbly told me, “My time is over in the Army. It’s your time now.” Later in the evening, he was recognized by the Order. After the master of ceremonies read his Medal of Honor citation, Mr. Patterson was formally introduced and he took to the stage. What followed

not only motivated me to be a better Soldier, but served as my platform of professionalism in and out of the Army.

When Robert Patterson was a Specialist Four in 1968, he, along with other Soldiers in Troop B, 2nd Squadron, 17th Cavalry, was involved in a firefight near La Chu, Republic of Vietnam. When the lead squad of the 3rd Platoon was pinned down by heavy automatic weapon and rocket propelled grenade fire, Patterson and two other members of his fire team moved forward in attempts to eliminate the enemy from two enemy bunkers. During this approach, Patterson noticed a third enemy bunker firing on his comrades. He said he doesn’t remember what happened next, but he put aside his own safety and ignored the warnings as he headed to the bunkers on his own. The Medal of Honor citation stated that Sgt. Patterson single-handedly destroyed five enemy bunkers by rifle and grenade fire, killed eight enemy soldiers, and captured seven weapons.

What made him do this? The overwhelming answer to questions like these is simply, “I was just doing what anyone else would’ve done for me.” We read in articles and watch on the news how leaders of other

The Army Profession Sgt. Harry E. Freeman

Alpha Company, 741st MI Bn.

organizations and corporations sacrifice the many to have the few at the top gain. It seems that it’s the opposite for the Army profession. The Medal of Honor Citation goes on to state, “Sgt. Patterson’s action at the risk of his life has reflected great credit upon himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.” In this case, one man, in the true nature of what it is to be an Army professional, put everything on the line for the safety of those around him.

Where does the Army find people like this?

According to ADRP 1, the five characteristics of the Army Profession are as follows: Military Expertise; Honorable Service; Trust; Esprit de Corps; and Stewardship of the Profession.

People like Robert Patterson aren’t born knowing they are going to brave death by challenging all thoughts of psychology. Something within the

Army profession makes Soldiers like Patterson sacrifice themselves for the safety of others. What he, and so many other of our fellow Soldiers have done, exhibits all five characteristics of the Army Profession--particularly trust. Trust is the foundation that our profession is built on. Trust is what allowed those Soldiers to get some sleep while others posted security. It is trust that sends a signal across all ranks and positions that whatever the mission may be, it will get done. Trust is what lets the Soldiers to your left and right know they will be protected in the face of any danger. The people of the United States put trust in Soldiers to protect them from enemies here and abroad; to reciprocate, the Army puts trust into the people of the United States to continue serving during times of war and peace.

The characteristics of the Army

profession are not exclusive to combat roles. Every Soldier, regardless of rank, military occupation, age, or experience is held to the same standard. We find ourselves in an organization that has outlasted everyone who has ever served in her ranks, and will continue to do so.

The tradition of excellence will continue with Soldiers today. We are considered ambassadors of the United States Army. We are involved in the most honorable profession in existence, and we are to act accordingly. This is the Army of so many historic figures. This is the Army of our fallen comrades. This is the Army of our Families who, for over two centuries, have served in the defense of our country. This is the Army of my father. This is an organization I will serve with utmost professionalism. This I will honor. This, we’ll defend.

U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Amy Christopherson / Released

The VOICE │ 1110 │ The VOICE

We are Professionals...

Why we serve

The moral and ethical tenets of the Army Values combined with the Warrior Ethos, the Soldiers Creed and the Civilian Creed characterize the Army’s professionalism and culture.

Army civilians and family members support every action, task and decision Soldiers conduct for our nation; consequently, we must develop values-based leadership to better ensure the well-being of our Soldiers and Civilians, and their families.

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Social Media in our personal lives Sgt. Amy Christopherson

704th MI Bde. PAO


Avoid: • Sharing offensive and inappropriate content. This

includes posting anything libelous, defamatory, obsecene, abusive, threatening, racially or ethnically hateful.

• Posting or disclosure of internal Army documents or information that the Army has not officially released.

• Posting information about casualties, detainees or military operations.

• Giving the impression that you are speaking for the Army, rather than as an individual. A disclaimer can help make this clear. “The postings on this site are my own and don’t represent the Army’s positions or opinions.”

• Discussing issues not related to your area of expertise or personal experiences.

• Mentioning unit locations, deployment dates and times, equipment specifications or anything that the enemy might want to know.

As social media has become a wide-spread means of communication, the military has tried to keep up by encouraging units to establish their own official social media presence to communicate with Soldiers and Family members. Many Soldiers find social media sites are a great way to express themselves creatively and keep in touch with friends and family, but all Soldiers need to use social media responsibly.

Everything you do, in and out of uniform, in person and online, reflects on the Army. Soldiers are expected to behave professionally and maintain their military bearing even off-duty and even online. A Soldier who violates laws or regulations online is subject to disciplinary action under the Uniform Code of Military Justice.

Remember, Army leaders, members of the media, the general public and even our adversaries are watching your social media interactions.


Mr. Axel Gonzalez704th MI Bde. Safety Manager


A Call to Arms: Why we serve

Spc. Lory S. Cowgill741st MI Bn.

At one point or another within a Soldier’s career, most have been asked the following questions. “Why did you enlist? What called you to serve?” Depending on the time and circumstances, there are a plethora of reasons that would compel the service member to sign on the dotted line. Some sign for the opportunity to further their education; others felt a calling to serve their country; many were seeking a change of career and lifestyle. Here, we have three Soldiers from Bravo Company of the 741st Military Intelligence Battalion who have offered to share with us their reasons for having chosen to become a part of the brotherhood that is the United States Army.

Staff Sgt. Bryan N. Ivery, a 29 year old South Carolina native, is a linguist who currently serves as a platoon sergeant in Bravo Company.

“I enlisted for a couple of reasons. The main reason was to get myself a good foundation for my future. I didn’t want to work in the restaurant business or in retail, or in a plant or factory. I also wanted to see and travel the world.

“My first deployment to Baghdad, Iraq was a life-changing event. I learned just how short life can be. I gained a new respect for many of the small things I had taken for granted before. I understood that the men and women to my right and left were my family and that in order for us to get back home to our families, we needed to take care of each other.”

Coming from Syracuse, NY, Staff Sgt. Amanda Doria entered into service July 27th, 2003 as a water purification specialist. She later reclassed to be a linguist.

“When I first enlisted, I was using the Army as an opportunity to get out of my home town, get the chance to go to college, and have a steady job, all while defending my country. However when I reenlisted, my list of reasons to stay grew exponentially. Every day I get to help people learn and grow in so many ways, and whether they stay in or not, I know that I played a role in helping improve their lives.

“My twin sister, Autumn, has always been my biggest supporter throughout my career

and has been a great perspective to rely on since she is a SFC in the Army. My father also is always there for me when I need perspective and a helping hand.”

Spc. Cody R. Cowgill from North Carolina enlisted in the service in 2012 as a linguist.

“I had a couple of different reasons for joining the Army. Part of me wanted to join for the career; part of me felt it was family tradition. But, the main reason had to do with a tragic experience of a family friend. A great Soldier, father, and husband’s patrol hit an IED, from which he did not survive. I remember seeing the mother and daughter’s pain, and even more so, the reaction of their son, old

enough to remember his father but too young to comprehend the situation. I wanted to do something. I wanted to serve hoping that just maybe, I could help prevent another family from being torn by such a terrible event.

“The thing that I enjoy most about the Army is seeing people grow and develop, at rates and in ways that I never got to see on the civilian side. Not only the individuals who are changing, but those who guide them into changes as well. The bonds that you see formed between a Soldier, their fellow Soldiers, and outstanding leaders is inspiring. It inspires you to find those bonds yourself, to develop yourself, and then help those around

you to follow that same path.”In the end, each Soldier has

his or her own personal, unique reasons for devoting his or her time to serving the country, but it’s the fellow Soldiers with whom they serve that draw one to become a part of the brotherhood that is the United States Army.




Birds of Prey tear up competition in combatives tournament

BUCKLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- Members of the U.S. Army 743rd Military Intelligence Battalion, along with one U.S. Air Force Airman, competed against each other in a combatives tournament held at the Buckley Fitness Center Jan. 14.

The tournament, held once a year, gives soldiers a chance to practice hand-to-hand combat techniques, as well as engage in some friendly competition.

“Every year we have a combatives competition to see who the best in the unit is,” said Cpl. William Kuhnmuench, U.S. Army 743rd MI BN Bravo Company signals analyst. “A Co, B Co and (Headquarters Operation Company) all compete against each other for commander’s cup points.”

The tournament was comprised of double-elimination brackets in lightweight, middleweight and heavyweight categories, with the two winners from each category

competing against each other for the weight-category title.

Airman 1st Class Cristian De Leon, 2nd Space Warning Squadron satellite systems operator, competed in the middleweight category, eventually taking the title.

“(Winning) took hard work and dedication,” De Leon said. “It was a good competition. I really enjoyed it would like to compete more.”

Aside from bragging rights, the competition hones combat skills each competitor has learned. Soldiers are taught quick, effective and simple techniques for fighting empty-handed or with hand-held weapons. The training allows Soldiers to rely on muscle memory if a hostile situation arises while in a deployed location.

“In level-1 school, the first thing they taught us is the first one with the gun wins,” Kuhnmuench said. “It’s important for us to know what to do in those situations.”

Other members of the 743rd watched the competition to cheer on their company and learn from their mistakes.

“It’s really interesting to see what tactics they use to get out of certain positions,” said Capt. Sandra LLaury, 743rd MI BN Battalion S1 adjutant.

The competition served as a safe way to train Soldiers on using their own two hands for self-defense.

“The competition is good for gaining experience for combat situations,” Kuhnmuench said. “We have to be ready for anything.”

A U.S. Army 743rd Military Intelligence Battalion member lies defeated after competing in a combatives tournament held at the Buckley Fitness Center Jan. 15, 2015, on Buckley Air Force Base, Colo. The army battalion hosts the tournament every year to hone hand-to-hand combat training techniques while engaging in friendly competition. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Samantha Saulsbury/Released)

Two U.S. Army 743rd Military Intelligence Battalion Squadron members compete for commander’s cup points during a combatives tournament at the Buckley Fitness Center Jan. 15, 2015, on Buckley Air Force Base, Colo. The army battalion hosts the tournament every year to hone hand-to-hand combat training techniques while engaging in friendly competition. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Samantha Saulsbury/Released)

A combatives training instructor judges two U.S. Army 743rd Military Intelligence Battalion Squadron members as they compete for commander’s cup points during a combatives tournament at the Buckley Fitness Center Jan. 15, 2015, on Buckley Air Force Base, Colo. The army battalion hosts the tournament every year to hone hand-to-hand combat training techniques while engaging in friendly competition. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Samantha Saulsbury/Released)

Airman 1st Class Samantha Saulsbury460th Space Wing Public Affairs


Why We Serve Sgt. 1st Class Agueyvany Hernandez-TorresHOC, 741st MI Bn.

In and out of uniform, people always seem surprised that I am a U.S. Army Soldier. They seem astounded at the fact that I have been serving on active duty for the past 17 years. Questions usually follow thereafter-whether out of mere curiosity or to make conversation, I’m not sure-whatever the reason, these are the two questions I get asked often by civilians, relatives, and other service members: “Why did you join the Army?”, and “What are you STILL doing there?”

People join the armed forces

for different reasons: to travel, gain new experiences, find adventure, earn college money or loan repayment, to avoid college and just get a job, for benefits, it is a family tradition, to straighten up or as a last resort, and/or military service will get them the job they really want.

So…why did this “jibara” (country girl) born and raised in the beautiful island of Puerto Rico join the Army at age 19? Simple-the Navy required cutting my hair neck-length if I wanted to attend the Naval Academy

in Annapolis, the Air Force seemed like too much work, and the Marine Corps was never a choice. The Army offered me college money, the opportunity to travel, and extra pay every month for speaking my native language-this was a no-brainer!

I had it all planned out back in 1997; I’d do my five year commitment, get out, and go to college. Obviously, I deviated from the plan, not once, not twice, but three times. I reenlisted the first time because my parents got divorced and as the oldest child,

I felt the need to take care of family. By my second reenlistment several life-changing events had made me mature and grow fond of military life: I had lost friends and attended a handful of memorial services, I became a mom, and I was raising a son as a single parent. Six years after my initial reenlistment I realized not only that I had changed, matured, but best of all, I had gained an extended family in the Army.

The real test came after being in the Army for nine years. I had to think long and hard about a third reenlistment and whether or not to continue serving. I considered all options and even made a list of pros and cons. My decision to continue serving was based on the fact that my initial reasons for joining had changed. I no longer questioned if the Army was for me or not, it was more of a statement from my heart that said you are exactly where you need to be. My plan changed from get out and go to college to stay in, and make a difference. College will always be there.

There have been a lot of changes from the Army I grew up in, but the one thing that remains the same is that we are professionals and the best Army in the world. We serve because we care – for each other, for our nation, for freedom, for our future generations.

Like us on Facebookwww.facebook.com/704thMIU.S. Army photo by Sgt. Amy

Christopherson / Released

Courtesy photo / Released


Recognizing and Rewarding Your Army Unit Volunteers

Why a Rewards Programs is Important Part of Your Unit Volunteer Program:

• The Army recognizes the value of volunteers and including a Volunteer Rewards Program within your unit (AR 215-1, AR 608-1). Volunteer rewards programs are highly cost-effective ways of giving back to the community. They:

• • It helps to strengthen your Unit reputation and increase loyalty among your soldiers, their families and your workforce

• • • Improves morale and provide meaningful

and fun ways for your soldiers, their families and employees to get involved

• • • Provides opportunities for skills-based

learning and development without the overhead of more traditional training

Most volunteers donate their time and skills out of altruism or a passion for a given cause. Volunteers frequently are among your most valuable human resources, consistently demonstrating a willingness to go above and beyond the call of duty and honing skills such as leadership and time management. Beyond this, your volunteers are visible, active members of the community, strengthening their Army Unit and the 704th Military Intelligence brand and helping to build a positive image of our Brigade. A rewards program is a key component of a successful Volunteer Program as a way to publicly recognize your leading contributors and to inspire your workforce.

It is also essential to note that your volunteers who are actively engaged “in the field” are tremendous ambassadors for your Unit and the Brigade. These people become the face of your company in your community, participating in the types of volunteer activities that espouse your company’s values.

Volunteering is a commitment of time and skills, and it is testament to your Soldier’s, Family Member’s and Employee’s

passion for making the world a better place that they are out in the community making a difference. As discussed in this introduction, the Unit and the Brigade reap the benefits of this passion. For this reason, and to inspire your employees to greater commitments, recognition is an essential part of your Volunteer Program. It is also important to understand that recognition goes far beyond expressing gratitude; recognition is a way to infuse your unit culture with a sense of responsibility and giving.

Publicly Recognizing Volunteers

Public recognition is a

strong motivator for both volunteers and would-be volunteers. For volunteers, public acknowledgement is more than just a thank you for a job well done: it also satisfies the very human need to belong to something larger than oneself, be

it a cause, an organization, or both. It also encourages volunteers to stay on top of reporting their hours. The stronger the ties are between your program and your volunteers, the higher your level

of involvement will be. Public recognition is also important in

recruiting potential volunteers to your program. It:

• Increases internal awareness

of your company’s unit and community involvement

• Shows the company recognizes the importance of unit and community involvement

• Provides real stories to

exemplify abstract unit values

• Creates a “want” in the soldier, family member and employee base to be recognized, too

• Helps individual soldiers and employees increase their profile within the company

The Army formally recognizes and supports creating and maintaining Unit Volunteer and Volunteer Recognition Programs. In retrospect, the programs can be adapted to the unique needs and requirements of the Unit and its Soldiers, Family Members and Employees. Volunteer and volunteer recognition programs are important resources to companies that can benefit from the passion and commitment volunteers have to offer. Successful volunteer programs involve senior leaders and companies that create a system to recognize their volunteers on a regular basis in a fair and timely manner. For more information, contact:

Ms. Catherine C. Classe-FriendBde. Family Readiness Support Assistant


Black History Month - A Lesson in Values Based Leadership

Each February since 1976, Americans have observed Black History Month as a way to recognize and celebrate the achievements of black Americans.

The tradition began in 1926 when Dr. Carter G. Woodson, a historian and educator, started “Negro History Week,” because American history books failed to mention the contributions of African Americans.

One prominent figure in U.S. black history is Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Dr. King’s impact on the U.S. as we know it today is similar to Presidents Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, and Roosevelt, the four whose likeness are carved into Mount Rushmore as a lasting representation of each

of these values based leader’s contribution in building the United States of America.

Unlike these presidents whose countenance the mountain bears, Dr. King was not elected by the majority, rather he was chosen to represent the minority. No less important, albeit distinct, his vision and dream transcended traditional power paradigms and was the impetus for institutional change.

Dr. King, like all values based leaders, was shaped and molded by various experiences that prepared him for the challenges he faced. Born in 1929, as a young man Dr. King seemed almost oblivious to the horrors present around him

and described his childhood positively. Perhaps his ability not to see the world as it was would foretell his future success in seeing the world as it could be.

While earning his doctoral degree from Boston University, he was introduced to teachings from diverse theologians, including Mahatma Gandhi, which stirred up a passion inside and sparked his interest in merging the abstract concepts of the Protestant religion with concrete social experiences. After studying fundamental American documents like the Constitution and the Bill of Rights, the dissonance between what was promulgated and how people lived compelled young Dr. King to examine the underpinnings of American institutions and further question many widely held assumptions.

Dr. King chose the ministry, perhaps because it was the traditional and almost exclusive path to leadership for a black man. The black church has served multiple needs beyond just spiritual needs including providing for the poor, education, healthcare, and social equality.

It was in this proving ground that Dr. King learned values based leadership.

Noted management theorist James O’Toole describes values based leadership as, “Unnatural leadership that happens by building an alternative system of belief and allowing others to adopt it as their own.”

This type of leadership was best evinced by the four presidents whose likenesses are carved into Mount Rushmore. Although

idealized by many, values-based leadership does not require one to be flawless. What it requires is a leader with above average emotional intelligence, including the ability to listen to others, encourage competing ideas, empower subordinates, and lead by influence.

Not only an effective team-builder, this leader connects with the masses and gains their trust by leading with integrity, listening to and respecting them in attempt to discern the salient issues.

Dr. King, like the four presidents, was courageous and displayed unrelenting resolve to provide vision, create the

Maj. Rodlin D. Doyle 704th MI Bde. Adjutant

strategy to get there, and manage the implementation of his vision.

Although being the leader of black people and the equality movement was not an office Dr. King sought, once it was bestowed on him it was a responsibility he could not dodge. “I realize that the choice leaves your own hands,” he said. The people expect you to give them leadership.”

Selfless at the core, Dr. King was able to galvanize a seemingly intermittent movement and cause into a coherent force capable of creating real and lasting change for all people. He faced tremendous challenges and gave everything he had to help others see in a new way.


Here and Everywhere

Command Sgt. Maj. Joseph Miller, the 742nd MI Bn. command sergeant major, stands at attention during the Brigade’s Holiday Ball Dec. 5. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Amy Christopherson / Released)

Soldiers participate in the brigade run Nov. 14 at 011Fort Meade, Md. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Juan C. Munoz / Released)

Col. Michele Bredenkamp, commander of the 704th MI Bde., addresses guests at the Brigade’s New Year’s reception Jan. 10 at Fort Meade, Md. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Juan C. Munoz / Released)

Chief Warrant Officer 3 Sherman Moss, of 741st Military Intelligence Battalion, is promoted by Family Members Oct. 24 at Fort Meade, Md. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Juan C. Munoz / Released)

Sgt. 1st Class Leroy Mcdaniels, the brigade S6 noncommissioned officer in charge with Headquarters and Headquarters company, inspects an NCO’s uniform during the company’s inpsection Feb. 6 at Fort Meade, Md. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Paul Grzibovski / Released)


Here and Everywhere

The color guard participates in the brigade holiday ball (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Amy Christopherson / Released)

Soldiers with 743rd Military Intelligence Battalion participate in a combatives competition Jan. 15 at Buckley Air Force Base, Colo. (U.S. Army photo / Released)

Soldiers participate in the brigade run at Nov. 14 Fort Meade, Md. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Juan C. Munoz / Released)

Winners of the combatives competition pose with their medals Jan. 15 and Buckley Air Force Base, Colo. (U.S. Army photo / Released)

Leaders with 743rd Military Intelligence Battalion pose during Lt. Col. Andrew Pekala’s holiday reception Jan. 5. at Buckley Air Force Base, Colo.(U.S. Army photo / Released)

Capt. M. David Riley prepares to relinquish command of Alpha Company, 743rd Military Intelligence Battalion, to Capt. Craig A. Maybee during a change of command ceremony Dec. 10 at Buckley Air Force Base, Colo. (U.S. Army photo / Released)

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