be good.  If you think human beings are generally bad, then that is exactly what you will get.  Have a positive attitude.

Crime vs. Mistake:  Punishment vs. Training

You cannot train someone out of committing a crime, you typically inflict some sort of punishment to accomplish this objective.  However, if someone makes a mistake, additional training can serve as a mechanism to ensure the same mistakes are not made again.  Never punish a legitimate mistake, train it away.

Setting Standards & Glass Houses: You must set high standards for yourself and others.

Someone will always try to knock you down when you are doing well.  Expect to meet and be prepared to accept this challenge when it surfaces.  People can only knock you down when you let them.  Don't let them knock you down.

Friendship & Fraternization:  A fine line and a difficult task.

It is a very difficult task to set high standards and to require high performance from your friends, however this has to be done in order to accomplish the overall goals/objectives. 
Don't let someone slide just because they are your friend. It will cause more harm than good.

"If/when you serve in the military, whether as a commissioned officer or an NCO, you will find that you may be leading people who are not well paid and from whom you will ask a tremendous amount of effort." You must instill a sense of discipline in order to achieve the desired results.

Iron Law of the Unintended Effect: 

No matter what you do or say, there will always be some sort of repercussion.  You have no idea what kind of repercussion that may be and you cannot prevent it, however you can be prepared for it.

The Dallas Composite Squadron is very grateful to Maj. General George Harrison and Maj. Doug Forge for taking time out of their busy schedule to visit with us.  Their presentation was very informative and thought provoking.  The cadets really took notice when they learned this distinguished officer began his military career as a CAP cadet. 

Cadets, there are many opportunities out there, you just have to take advantage of them.  Don't wait for someone to hand you a "golden" opportunity, as you'll be waiting for a long, long time.  Be aggressive in pursuing your career goals.  Go out there and put forth an effort.   

30
Cpt. Greg Malone