Political infighting.
Rumors & innuendo, masquerading as fact.
Factions within a service-focused organization, distracting from the mission.
Emotion and ego over rational logic, too often.
Resistance to innovation and change.
Underappreciated stress and time suck.

Why do I keep doing it? The answer is simple; The people.

My "why" always comes back to the people we serve, the people we serve with, and the people we develop lifelong relationships with.

In the last week, we've had some challenges and real people have suffered from scenarios that negatively affected their life. We've argued and made decisions that I wasn't on board with, but I have to live with. American Legion Commanders don't have the supreme power that people think we have.

I'm really proud of the people who have stepped up, this week. My Commander team of 1st Vice Commander Dennis Kee and 2nd Vice Commander Karl Risinger aren't pictured here, cuz we're always working and getting things done and aren't thinking about Instagram moments, but those two have been invaluable. What I most appreciate is that we don't always agree on specifics, but we always agree on the mission and don't just talk the talk. I'm going to also mention Executive Committee member Mark Vega. He has donated so much time lately helping to protect us from ourselves. He does it with that "no freak out" vibe you want from a lawyer.

Those names above have been warriors this past week, but aren't pictured below. The pictures below represent great moments this week with Legion Family folks that I've crossed paths with.

I'm thankful for...the people.

I'm fueled by...the people.

The people are "the why" reason that I stay on mission. We're always looking for help with that mission. Let me know if you want to jump in.

Commanders Corner