As I embark on a new chapter in my career journey, transitioning into the dynamic field of Defense Acquisition, I find myself reflecting on the values The Scout Law instilled in me while growing up in the Boy Scouts of America. Among these values, Bravery stands out as a guiding principle that has shaped my experiences and prepared me for the challenges ahead.
Throughout my time as a Navy Corpsman and as a frontline COVID tester during the pandemic, I have drawn inspiration from the BSA’s call to be Brave. Whether administering aid in high-stress situations or conducting tests in the face of adversity, bravery has been my compass, guiding me through moments of adversity and uncertainty.
As I transition into Defense Acquisition, I carry with me the lessons of bravery learned through service to others. In this field, bravery takes on new meaning—a willingness to tackle complex challenges, navigate unfamiliar terrain, and push boundaries in pursuit of innovation and excellence.
As I make my way through my borrowed copy of the Shipley Capture Guide (thank you Kayla Huthoefer, MBA!) I am struck by how much success can rest on the willingness to accept risk and capitalize on opportunity where others may be unwilling or unable to.
In Defense Acquisition bravery means embracing change, taking calculated risks, and challenging the status quo to drive progress and achieve mission success. It means having the courage to speak up, propose bold ideas, and advocate for what is right, even in the face of opposition or skepticism.
I am grateful for the lessons of bravery learned through my experiences in service and scouting. They remind me that courage is not the absence of fear but the willingness to act in spite of it—to step forward when others step back and to lead by example in pursuit of a greater purpose. I believe that this lifelong dedication to The Scout Law has given me the foundation to adapt and thrive in any situation, and without these values I could not be the man I am today.
I know times have been, are, and will continue to be uncertain, but if nothing else I will remember this: A Scout is Brave; and He Who Dares, Wins.
#Bravery #ScoutLaw #DefenseAcquisition #CareerTransition #Service #NavyCorpsman #COVID19 #Inspiration
Pictured: The Cataldo Ambulance Service’s fearless Covid team, Veterans Day, 2021.