Dear Faithful Companion,

We are a week into the new routines for this year, and I am beginning to notice how they provide clarity and a sense of accomplishment in my daily life. Like any new endeavor, success requires gradual acclimatization, and I remind myself to approach these routines with patience and persistence. This week has added another layer to the mix as I’ve returned to the office after Christmas leave. It’s remarkable how just as I start to miss the environment, it’s time to return—a sign of a well-timed break. I can confidently say I’ve missed both the work and, more importantly, the team I’m fortunate to lead and collaborate with daily.

As I reflect on my role within the Canadian Armed Forces, it’s humbling to realize that I’ve been back at CFB Borden for over a year now. Over my 23-year career, my positions have evolved significantly, each bringing its own unique challenges, moments of satisfaction, and pride. When I think about the past 12 months, I see tangible progress within the team. We’ve grown not only in terms of professional capabilities but also in our understanding of the broader purpose behind our work. It’s inspiring to see team members think more strategically and become increasingly capable of excelling in their roles.

Looking ahead for 2025, I want to focus on instilling military values and ethos in the team. Many of them  are relatively junior officers or non-commissioned members, and I believe it’s critical to dedicate genuine time to their development. While it can be challenging to find time in a fast-paced office environment, I know that providing mentorship and practical opportunities for them to apply the fundamental skills they’ve learned is essential. I want to encourage them to be thoughtful, deliberate, and measured in their assessments and not so quick to judge when faced with complex situations. By challenging them to grow and supporting them as they navigate their roles, I hope to foster their confidence, resilience, and ability to lead in the future.

Benjamin Franklin’s words, “Well done is better than well said,” resonate deeply with me, particularly in the context of leading a dynamic team within the structured environment of the military. In my experience, actions have always been the true measure of leadership. While it is necessary to communicate plans and intentions clearly, the real weight of leadership lies in demonstrating those intentions through consistent, deliberate, and thoughtful actions. By showing up, taking responsibility, and actively supporting the team in both challenges and successes, a leader earns trust and respect. Words can inspire momentarily, but actions create the lasting foundation upon which teams are built. In a fast-paced and demanding environment like ours, it’s those tangible actions—whether mentoring a junior team member, stepping in during a critical moment, or simply leading with integrity day after day—that truly set the tone for success.

It’s also important to recognize that no one person can accomplish a mission alone. Success is always a team effort, and every member plays an integral role. My responsibility as a leader is to ensure that each person understands their value and contribution to the larger goal. By leading with integrity, demonstrating commitment, and championing the achievements of the team, I aim to create an environment where individuals are motivated to push themselves and work cohesively to achieve our objectives.

This year, I am committed to not only leading by example but also creating opportunities for my team to thrive. I want to be the kind of leader who inspires action, cultivates growth, and ensures that every member of the team feels empowered to reach their full potential.

Verbum Ultimum: Leadership is not spoken into existence—it is proven in the actions we take, the values we instill, and the trust we earn from those we lead. Words may inspire, but it is through consistent action and unwavering commitment to our team’s growth that we truly embody the essence of leadership. Success is not the result of one voice but the collective effort of a unified team striving toward a shared purpose.

Until next we meet, with ink as my witness and virtue as my guide.
JCB