TEAM: The 2nd Cavalry Regiment Philosophy

VILSECK, BY, GERMANY

10.10.2019

Story by Keisha Frith 

AFN Bavaria

The 2nd Cavalry Regiment aims to create a culture where Soldiers understand that their well-being is important. In order to create this environment, the unit had to establish a command philosophy that could be embodied across their formation.
The regiment’s philosophy is focused on “TEAM” – bringing every Soldier together in a manner that supports their mission. Every regimental Soldier is assigned to a Troop, and each of the 37 Troops have the same red over white colored cavalry guidon in front of their formation.
While the word “TEAM” is a focal point for the unit, each letter of the word has a deeper meaning. Col. Thomas Hough, the 2nd Cavalry Regiment commander, 80th Colonel of the Regiment, expressed what philosophy means to him.
“When you think about the word ‘team’ for us, the ‘T’ stands for trust,” said Hough. “We have to trust in each other.”
According to the commander, trust starts with the unit’s leaders and flows all the way down to junior Soldiers and back up.
“At the end of the day it’s about being human, you have to get to know every Soldier that’s out there,” said Hough. “It’s absolutely okay for our young officers and non-commissioned officers to see new Soldiers coming in to the organization and say, ‘Where are you from? How are you doing so far? Do you have family with you? Where are they living? Where is your family at back home?’”
The ‘E’ means everyone matters.
“We all know we have different ranks and jobs across an organization like this, but everyone’s opinion matters,” said Hough.
The ‘A’ stands for ambassador. Regimental Soldiers have a unique opportunity to represent the U.S. Army and the nation while stationed in Europe.
“One of the things I think is neat about being in here is you are going to train with some of our allies and partners across Europe,” said Hough. “Whenever you go out around Europe, you represent the regiment and the United States Army every bit as much as myself and the Sergeant Major.”
The ‘M’ stands for mission readiness.
“The world is a really complex place. I don’t think anyone truly knows where the next conflict, may be. Our job is to be ready for that conflict,” said Hough. “We have a long history of being ready for our nation, and we have to continue to do that.”
The “TEAM” philosophy is embodied by Soldiers across the unit. One such Soldier is Staff Sgt. Logan Haupt, 4th Squadron.
“Inside my organization, and inside my platoon specifically, we are very team focused,” said Haupt. “We focus on making sure that all Soldiers have a role, know their role and are confident and competent in that role.”

• Date Taken: 10.10.2019
• Date Posted: 10.22.2019 10:30
• Story ID: 347052
• Location: VILSECK, BY, DE