Forging Tomorrow’s Leaders: 8th Battalion Junior Enlisted Find Purpose and Connection in New Orleans
USMEPCOM is a unique billet for many junior enlisted, who serve alongside mostly officers and civilians within the joint force command. The event established a network of peers to share experiences and advice long after they leave New Orleans.
“Communicating with other junior enlisted and learning how they work within their MEPS was very valuable,” said Coast Guard Petty Officer 2nd Class Cynthia Zigmont, Memphis MEPS travel assistant. “We did create a group chat, checked in with everyone after departing and told each other if anyone has questions that it could be asked in our chat.”
Along with outdoor runs through the city, the group shared meals together, designed a team patch, learned how to connect history to modern military leadership and spent an immersive day at the World War II Museum.
“The energy and participation throughout the event were awesome,” said Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Jeremy Fogleman, 8th Battalion senior enlisted advisor. “We trained less in a classroom setting and more with hands-on, applied, interactive and purposeful leadership engagement, collaboration, discussion and practice.”
Of those applied lessons, a standout was taking time to invest in their own development by creating their personal leadership philosophies.
“As we progress through the ranks and eventually have junior enlisted looking up to us, it’s great to have a philosophy what we stand behind and build,” said Zigmont. “Everyone’s leadership method will be different but being able to create that foundation is the most important thing. Once the foundation is made, you can build off that and make modifications where you want.”
After reflecting on leading the 8th Battalion Junior Enlisted Development Event, Fogleman emphasized the importance of remaining committed to developing young leaders and having the ability to provide them with opportunities outside the tactical and daily level.
“Making an investment in their development made the point that they are valued, not just for what they can do today, but also the leaders they will be tomorrow,” said Fogleman. “If there is one thing I hope they remember and carry forward, it is this: Leadership isn't about the title or rank you wear, but rather the impact you have on people around you every single day of your life.”
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