HomeSafe Alliance’s Post

I did not understand the full impact of the discrimination and racism on me and my career until I created a 10 page chronology of my career, significant events in the military, in the country, and in politics. I created that timeline in 2006 or 7, before Obama was elected. A lot has happened since then. I updated it before I wrote my book in 2017. That enabled me to see how things were connected. The bird's-eye view was helpful. Look at the graphs on graduation rates, and remember what was happening at certain points as you read the comments made in the article. In the KPBS story about Why there are so few Black admirals in the Navy, I shared my views (see link in the comments below). Discrimination and racism wears you down, physically and psychologically. Look at the Navy statistics and ask yourself what the Navy's officer corps will look like in 20-30 years from now. We are heading for internal conflict and danger to our collective security. Those cadets sharing racist watermelon jokes are now leading diverse teams of volunteers. What could go wrong? The answer might be in the promotion and military justice statistics mentioned here and elsewhere.

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Thank you Bezinga for featuring Glendale Parade Store LLC in this article that clearly shows how political rhetoric and media portrayals often paint the military and first responders in a negative light, contributing to cultural shifts where service is undervalued. This negative perception reveals a broader societal issue: a lack of connection to and understanding of national symbols and what they represent. Glendale Parade Store, founded back in 1947, continues to be a cornerstone for the Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC), Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) first responders, and military color guards, serving across the nation. As an approved vendor with CAGE code, GSA, and DLA contract, the company provides essential ceremonial items such as drill rifles and flags, to foster a sense of honor and tradition among young cadets. Drill Dojo complements this mission by offering free, comprehensive training. Most of their participants have stated that this service has motivated them to become better citizens. This demonstrates the significant impact such programs can have rekindling a sense of pride and service in the youth. Glendale Parade Store and Drill Dojo are not just businesses; they are custodians of American heritage. They provide the best in class ceremony parade products to our cadets, military, first responders, and more specifically to our veterans ensuring that even in their seventies and eighties, veterans can march proudly with flags and ceremonial rifles, embodying the honor they once defended. On a personal note I cannot believe that some government agencies (GSA) are thinking about restricting the sale of our Drill Rifles and Ceremonial Swords on its platform, this reflects a broader misunderstanding of military symbols, noting that these items are ceremonial and non-lethal; - Our ceremonial swords and rifles are symbols of respect and honor, not weapons of war. This institutional bias complicates efforts to provide the military with the ceremonial items necessary to honor service members appropriately. #veteranceos #ETA #GSA #VA

🌟 Exciting Weekend Empowering Young Marine Leaders! 🌟 I was truly thrilled to have had the opportunity this past weekend to work with the Maryland Regiment of Young Marines at their Annual Adult Volunteer Training. The Maryland Regiment Adult Volunteer Staff instructed over 30 dedicated Young Marine Adult Volunteers from 8 different Maryland units and one from Virginia. Every unit from the Maryland Regiment was represented! Our courses covered a range of essential topics, setting the stage for a successful and impactful year ahead. 🔍 Here's a snapshot of what we accomplished together: 1. State of the Regiment: A comprehensive overview 2023 and how to align our goals and strategies for the upcoming year, fostering unity and a shared vision. 2. Young Marine of the Year Eligibility: How to identify and celebrate the outstanding contributions of our young leaders, recognizing their achievements and commitment. 3. Promotion Eligibility: Equipping our volunteers with the knowledge to guide and support the growth of our Young Marines, ensuring they progress and excel in their roles. 4. Re-registration Requirements: Streamlining administrative processes to ensure a seamless continuation of our programs, allowing us to focus on what truly matters. 5. Financial Reporting: Empowering our volunteers with the skills to manage non-profit financial reporting related to unit level finances, enabling us to invest in the growth and development of our Young Marines. 6. Conducting a PFT (Physical Fitness Test): How to conduct and prioritize the health and well-being of Young Marines though a healthy, drug free lifestyle while fostering a culture of physical fitness and resilience. 7. Recruiting and Retention: Developing strategies to attract new members and retain our existing ones, ensuring the longevity and vibrancy of our community. A huge shoutout to the passionate and dedicated individuals who participated! Your personnal commitment to learning and growing to better develop Americas youth through the Young Marines program is truly inspiring. Let's continue working together to make a lasting impact on their lives and our communities. #YoungMarines #LeadershipDevelopment #Empowerment #CommunityService #YouthEmpowerment #VolunteerLeadership #MilitaryYouth #TeamworkMakesTheDreamWork 💪🌟

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.

Check out the latest post from Diversity_CRE

A look into the challenges Black cadets face at the Air Force Academy. The article explores the reasons behind the lower graduation rates and the ongoing efforts to increase diversity. #MilitaryLeadership #DiversityAndInclusion #EducationEquity

It's #employeespotlight day! Today, we are featuring Tonia Carr’s journey with #USACEChicago. What brought you to USACE, Chicago District? 💼 I was part of the base closure at Fort Sheridan, in 1992. I was placed on the Priority Placement Program (PPP) list and was offered a position at U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Chicago District one day before I was set to go on Leave Without Pay (LWOP). I accepted and started on October 5, 1992. What type of work do you do at USACE, Chicago District? 💻 I am an Administrative Support Assistant in the Executive Office. I support the Deputy Commander, the G&A Staff and the Colonel in the absence of the Administrative Officer. I support the district overall as the Administrative Assistant in the Executive Office. The district REALLY wants to know: Cubs or Sox? ⚾ Sox!! What do you consider to be your greatest achievement? 🏆 My greatest achievement at the Chicago District has been to be kind to my fellow employees. I have been able to work with such a diverse group of people and dealing with our customers. Working in the Executive Office under the leadership of so many very smart leaders also was very fulfilling for me. When I was the BEP Manager for the Chicago District, it was a humbling and educational experience that allowed me to be the Subject Matter Expert (SME) on Black History to teach the personnel here. Also, to bring in good quality speakers with phenomenal knowledge about our country’s history. What message/advice would you like to send to others considering employment at USACE, Chicago District? 😁 My message to anyone seeking employment with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Chicago District, which is a great place to work, would be to pursue your dreams!! There are so many levels of greatness!! Never be afraid to ask questions. There are mountains of opportunities available to you. Don’t be afraid. We are happy to have Toni on our team! If you are interested in a job with #USACE, learn how to apply here: https://lnkd.in/g5Y4-Aqi

When a United States Marine Corps Veteran from The Junior League of Greenville, NC, and an US Army Veteran from The Junior League of Greater Orlando, connect at The Junior League’s Organizational Development Training (ODT), the collaboration becomes more than just a meeting of minds—it’s a powerful convergence of service, leadership, and shared purpose. In The Junior League, diversity isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a core value that drives everything we do. As we worked alongside other passionate leaders, I was reminded of this commitment, especially when my t-shirt designed by Dr. DeShawn Chapman, Ed.D of Equity Learning Bridge sparked meaningful conversations with its bold message: "I See Color?" Seeing color is about more than acknowledgment—it’s about celebrating the rich diversity that shapes our identities and experiences. It’s about recognizing that our different backgrounds, perspectives, and cultures make us stronger together. By embracing this diversity, we can challenge biases, create inclusive environments, and champion true racial equity in all aspects of life. Together, we’re not just making an impact—we’re driving meaningful change that reflects the values we hold dear. As we continue to push for inclusivity and equity, I’m reminded of the power of unity in diversity—when we come together, we can create real change that benefits everyone. U.S. Army Soldier For Life #jlodt2024 #JuniorLeague #VeteranStrong #veterans #WhySeeColor #DiversityAndInclusion #Equity #army #marines #CommunityLeadership #GreenvilleNC #OrlandoFL #LeadershipInAction #InclusiveLeadership #CommunityImpact #VeteransLead #ServiceAboveSelf #StrongerTogether #EmpowerChange #BreakTheBias #DiversityAndEquity #WomenInLeadership #PurposeDrivenLeadership #ImpactfulCollaboration #womenveterans

Service retention is two fold. What the service has to offer and more importantly the climate established by leadership. Fostering the proper climate takes time and a unified front across senior leaders.