CSM Caffie

Ranting, Raving, and Remarking (A jumbled mix)

I went to a retirement ceremony the other day for a man which was someone I had a great deal of respect for, and that I’ve known, or rather had acquaintance with for 10 years. We don’t really know each other well. We didn’t hang out, our families didn’t hang out, but our paths crossed quite a few times over the years.

A good question, then, would be, “Why do I respect him?” I would have been hard-pressed to answer that question, other than, “I just do.”

At the ceremony he said some and his boss said some things that touched my heart and illuminated the ‘why’.

They were talking about soldiering. They were talking about self-less service and taking care of the troops. His boss (LTG Stultz) was commenting on how it was never about him (CSM Caffie) and always about the soldier. I realized that’s why I liked him! That’s why I respected him! The light bulb went on.

Taking care of people without having an agenda is something I believe in. I like to believe (I wear rose-colored glasses and in my mind good things happen to good people) when your first thought is about someone other than yourself, it’s usually on a good path.

And I’ve heard that when you take care of others, you don’t have to worry, someone will take care of yours.

Sometimes, that is true, and sometimes it is not. My gut feeling is that there are fewer mentors today than there was yesterday. Hopefully, someone will rise up and say, “Nay!”

I believe that yes, you take care of soldiers, or children, or elderly, or subordinates. Teach them what you know, demonstrate proper methods, be a positive role model. But in the midst of everything, stay on track with yourself. Get your schooling, your training, and your physical fitness. Determine your goals and set out to achieve them. Make it easy for those who want to help you – help you.

As you take care of those around you, remember that you too, need care.

Command Sergeant Major Caffie of the United States Army Reserve – I salute you. Thanks for everything you and your wife Sylvia have done.