F. E. WARREN AIR FORCE BASE, Wyo. -- I believe one of the keys to becoming a great leader is rewarding and praising those who work for you. I think all too often leaders think of taking care of oneself with rewards and accolades from the works of others who should be recognized first. All too often your subordinates are the ones that put in the blood sweat and tears and we as the leaders receive coins and medals for it. That, to me, is unjust and unfair. The one thing I have always tried to do is acknowledge my people before myself because I realize without my people, I would not be in the position I am today. I have heard so many times from troops that "we did all the work and the boss gets the praise".

Another key to becoming a great leader is having successful relationships. We as leaders don't get on top by ourselves. We as leaders must give back to those who put boots on the ground for us and follow our orders without hesitation or question. We must build and mold our future leaders so that one day they will keep the enrichment of leadership, mentorship, and self-giving that sustains our great Air Force for many years to come.

I believe one way to build our people up as a future leader is with praise. When you praise subordinates for their hard work and dedication something begins to transform in them and in you. It is such a great feeling of gratification to be praised that it becomes infectious not only at work, but in life. The benefits of acknowledging your people will help them grow and will influence others to feel that sense of accomplishment and a sense of worth in the work place. When people are acknowledged for their good work, loyalty begins to expand and grow. Subordinates understand and are confident that we will take care of them through the good times and the turbulent times as well. When we as leaders have people that are happy to come to work and feel fulfilled, they will respond 110% 24/7. It is our job as leaders to encourage and praise them when your people deserve it, just like at times we need to give them some tough love when they need it as well. They will not only grow as future leaders, but they will respect you for it and maybe even thank you.

I will leave you with this quote from a great American leader, John Quincy Adams, who has guided and inspired me with many of his famous leadership quotes, but one that stands out to me the most is: "If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader."