A word from the Chairman

Joint Force Quarterly, Spring-Summer, 2001 by Henry H. Shelton

As I look back on 38 years of service, the central experience for officers of my generation was Vietnam. Americans lost faith in the integrity and professionalism of the military during that conflict. We must never allow the Armed Forces to be placed in that situation again.

I do not want to dwell on Vietnam in my last words as Chairman. Instead I want to stress two lessons of that defining experience. One is the need for morale and discipline without which military capabilities are useless. The Vietnam War almost tore the Nation apart, and the so-called hollow force of the 1970s was not just a matter of aging systems. We were hollow in spirit. Morale and discipline depend on various factors. Foremost among them is leaders who set high standards and insist on realistic training. We must have good weapons and equipment. And finally, we must deal with the material and emotional well-being of our people and their families. If we take care of those things, then we will accomplish our missions.

The second lesson is the need to maintain a bond between the military and the American public. This is absolutely vital in a democracy. It also depends on a number of factors. We must be stewards of the public trust and exemplars of professionalism. Integrity must be our watchword. We must take advantage of the bridge between the Armed Forces and society provided by members of the Reserve components. When they leave their civilian livelihoods for active duty, they ensure that our all-volunteer force remains connected with the people it serves.

Moreover, a free and unfettered press is important to an open dialogue with the public. We must work closely with our civilian leaders to tell our story and take advantage of opportunities to explain how and why we do what we do.

We rebuilt our forces spiritually and physically after Vietnam. Results of these efforts were displayed to the world in Desert Storm. And they're on display today wherever our magnificent forces serve around the globe. Everywhere I go, I see young enlisted troops, noncommissioned officers, and officers doing everything their Nation asks of them--and doing it with competence, energy, and an unmatched devotion to duty.

As Chairman over the last four years, I have had the utmost confidence in each member of the Armed Forces. I know that if needed, regardless of where or when, they are ready to fight and win, keep the peace, and provide aid both at home and abroad. Although we have faced numerous challenges and frustrations, the finest military in the world has come through with flying colors. I am confident it will persevere in the future. For those in leadership positions, the greatest impact you can have is on training and retaining your replacements. Your subordinates are your legacy. I know that you will pick the best, mentor them, and make them better. Having that trust makes it easier for me to lay aside my uniform, for I know that the security of the Nation is in good hands.

For almost four decades, in peace and war, I've had the privilege of being a soldier. It has been a spectacular adventure. The outstanding men and women with whom I've served have made it all worthwhile. I'm eternally indebted to them for their support and friendship. When I render that last salute, I'll recall great times and good friends as well as tough days and lost comrades. I'll recall the enthusiasm with which I began the adventure and the searing realities of combat. I'll recall the thousands of young faces, united in a purpose unique to men and women in uniform, regardless of service or specialty. I'll think of the myriad sights and sounds and smells that have made this life so special and rewarding. But mostly, I'll think about you, knowing that you will continue to do your duty. And I will remember how proud I was to be one of you.

Thank you for who you are and what you do for the Nation. May God bless all of you and keep you safe wherever you serve. As always, we stand ready to face the task.

HENRY H. SHELTON Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff