Integrity is an idea that has been discussed by individuals with a verbal acuity far beyond anything I could ever hope for. With this in mind, I will not delve deeply or poetically into what integrity is or should mean. However, I will simplify the meaning of integrity; essentially, integrity boils down to doing what's right even if no one is watching. You see a piece of trash on the ground and there's no one around... pick it up. Driving down the road with no cops in sight... drive within the speed limit. You arrive at a toll booth and no one is working…pay the toll. A candidate is not readily available to sign an enlistment form... track him down and make sure he signs it. I could write examples until the infinite becomes paltry in comparison, however I am sure I have made my point clearly; the greater good must be supported regardless of who is there to ensure that happens. It seems obvious that integrity should be a characteristic that every individual is innate with from birth. However, integrity is a thankless trait; after all there is no one around. An individual cannot expect someone to applaud, smile, thank him, actually do something. By definition, integrity should be something that is pursued simply because an individual wants to do what is right, not because he or she expects recognition of any kind. In an Army unit, where every individual must be willing to trust someone next to him, even in life, the ability to do what is right at all times is a necessity. Without integrity, an Army unit will cease to function cohesively. How can a soldier be willing to look at his fellow soldier and trust that he will help him in a time of need if the simple task of doing what is right is neglected? At the same time, what is right? Can amb... means of paper... be the backbone of the Army unless I am willing and able to do what is right at all times. I have to be the standard bearer. I must be blameless. I must always conduct myself in a way that gives credit to the force, the military service and my country, regardless of the situation I find myself in. I recited a creed daily that embodies what makes a noncommissioned officer. I have lived by this belief and have always put the needs of my soldiers before my own. I sacrificed myself at times when I shouldn't have. I made sure the people around me were better off than me whenever I could. What I mean by these empty words, what I hope rings true from the message I am trying to convey, is that I have LIVED with integrity. I EMBODIED integrity, even when it meant it would harm me; because no one is more professional than me. Kind regards, SSG Thomas Michael Dean