18/09/2024
A couple of years ago, I found myself having lunch with an E-9 who was going through a tough time. As we talked, he shared something that struck me to the core: "I’m new here, and as a Sergeant Major, I don’t have many people to talk to when I hit a rough patch or have a bad day. On the last installation, I only knew a handful of Sergeant Majors. It feels so good to be here now and to have people like you—still giving back, still being a sounding board for those of us still serving."
That conversation lit a fire within me. I realized how vital it is for us, the E-9 community, to not just lead in uniform but to be there for each other in the moments that matter most. We hold positions of great responsibility, but that doesn’t mean we don’t need support. And in that moment, I knew I had to do something. That was the beginning of "The Power of 9's."
As someone who has been involved with the Sustainment Chapter Sergeants Major Association since 2009, serving as President, Vice President, and Fundraiser, I’ve always been passionate about bringing our community together. Over the years, I’ve seen firsthand the power of relationships—how Sergeant Majors who invest in one another’s lives create bonds that transcend the uniform. I often remind my peers that the time to seek support isn’t when you first meet someone. Building those relationships takes time and effort, but it’s an investment that will pay off for the rest of your life.
"The Power of 9's" is rooted in that belief. It’s about creating a space where E-9s, whether active or retired, can come together, lift each other up, and find strength in community. In today’s climate, where our roles have sometimes been cast in a negative light, I feel a profound responsibility to shift that narrative. We are not just our ranks. We are leaders, mentors, and role models, not only within the military but in our broader communities. It’s time to let the world see that.
This is why I’m working to expand "The Power of 9's" across all branches of the military. I want to create a legacy where E-9s support one another long after we’ve hung up the uniform. And part of that effort is a book I’m writing about this initiative—a labor of love that showcases the best of who we are. But I need your help.
I’m looking for stories from our E-9 community—stories that reflect our leadership, our character, our volunteerism, and the impact we continue to have both in and out of uniform. Whether you’ve made a difference in your local community, mentored fellow soldiers, or found success in your post-military life, I want to hear from you. Your story can help show the world the true heart of the E-9.
This project is about more than just words on a page. It’s about reshaping the way our community is viewed—by the public, by our peers, and by those we serve. If you have a story to share, please DM me. Together, we can shine a light on the positive contributions of the E-9 community and inspire future generations of leaders.
I’ve had the privilege of serving alongside many incredible individuals throughout my career, and I’m proud to continue supporting them today. Together, we can achieve far more than we ever could alone. Let’s come together as a community, let go of our egos, listen before we speak, and respect each other’s perspectives. This isn’t about any one of us—it’s about the collective strength we share.
Being an E-9 isn’t the pinnacle; it’s the start of a lifelong journey of service. I’m still learning every day, finding new purpose in this chapter of my life. I am, and will always be, a Soldier for life. I will always support my brothers and sisters in and out of uniform, and I will continue to be the strongest advocate for our E-9 community.
Let’s make "The Power of 9's" something we can all take pride in a legacy that lasts far beyond our service.
