Veterans Day has come and gone. Despite that, I wanted to share words of character that I recently learned, owing to the Marine Corps 14 essential leadership traits mnemonic.

On Veterans Day I read a true story by Elliot Ackerman, a former Marine and Intelligence Officer (Silver Star, Purple Heart, Bronze Star) who did five tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. He spoke with some buddies at an event for a former Marine who is running for office. During discussion, one of his buddies who did a tour with him in Fallujah told him he knew exactly who would win the election for president and it would not be based on any polls. His buddy said, “It will be based on JJ DID TIE BUCKLE.”

JJ DID TIE BUCKLE - Marine Corps essential leadership traits:

• Justice

• Judgment

• Dependability

• Initiative

• Decisiveness

• Tact

• Integrity

• Endurance

• Bearing

• Unselfishness

• Courage

• Knowledge

• Loyalty

• Enthusiasm

Marines are taught the mission always takes precedence over not only your own life, but the lives of your Marines.

His buddy said, I remember what Capt. John W. Maloney said (who was later killed in Iraq), “If you take care of your Marines, they will take care of you.” This election will not be based on failed policies, but on leadership traits.

“His defeat was predicted,” said Zach Iscol, Marine 2004, Marine for Life (M4L). Semper Fidelis, “Always faithful,” Marine Motto since 1883.

Let me jar your memory on Article 1 of the Code of Conduct for the Armed Forces: “I am an American fighting in the forces which guard my country and our way of life. I am prepared to give my life in their defense.”

It might be a good idea for future challengers to think more deeply about their opponent. Because those 14 words listed above cannot be reduced to buzzwords or a four-word slogan.

With gratitude,

Debra Becker,

Effort