Why Veterans Day Matters at Work

On November 11, we don’t just remember service—we learn from it. Military veterans bring a rare blend of clarity, humility, and courage that translates directly to today’s business realities: shifting priorities, leaner teams, and relentless change. In this post, we highlight three speakers—Brig. Gen. Mike Oster (USA, Ret.), Mike Sarraille (U.S. Navy SEAL, Ret.), and Caleb Campbell (West Point & NFL)—whose stories turn values into visible behavior and pressure into presence.

Three Stories, One Throughline: Values You Can See

The common thread across their journeys is simple: when pressure hits, character shows. These aren’t abstract leadership theories—they’re field‑tested practices your teams can start using Monday morning.

Calm in the Chaos — Brig. Gen. Mike Oster (USA, Ret.)

The radio crackled with partial information; the clock was unforgiving. Instead of turning up the volume, Oster turned up clarity. On a dusty truck hood, he drew a simple map, assigned owners, and set a cadence—“ten minutes and we decide.” The mission moved; the team steadied.

What leaders can steal today:

  • A repeatable leadership cadence (brief → assign → execute → debrief)
  • Consistency beats intensity: small, steady standards carry teams through fog
  • Translate purpose into daily behaviors people can actually follow

Popular talk: Standards Over Slogans: Leading When It Counts

Trust Before Tactics — Mike Sarraille, U.S. Navy SEAL (Ret.)

On a nighttime infil, the lesson was unmistakable: elite teams don’t move fast because they’re fearless—they move fast because they trust. Years later in business, Sarraille shows leaders how to select for character, coach for ownership, and measure what moves the mission. The result isn’t bravado; it’s repeatable excellence without burnout.

What leaders can steal today:

  • Talent × Leadership as a competitive edge
  • Build trust-first teams that can operate with autonomy
  • Habits of the Everyday Warrior for sustainable high performance

Popular talk: The Everyday Warrior: Habits of Elite Performers

From Pressure to Presence — Caleb Campbell, West Point & NFL

The stadium was loud; the expectations louder. Later, in a combat‑ready unit, Campbell met the same opponent: pressure. The turning point wasn’t tougher skin; it was deeper presence—naming emotions, creating psychological safety, and choosing courageous conversations. Performance followed because people felt seen.

What leaders can steal today:

  • Practical tools for psychological safety and honest feedback
  • A playbook for turning stress into signal
  • Rituals that help teams risk smart and learn fast

Popular talk: Leading with Heart: Trust, Safety & Results

 

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