"Being an officer is not a game; it’s not an extension of your fraternity days. Having success entail much more than scoring 300 on the APFT, or earning as many tabs/badges as possible. It requires maturity far beyond your years, dedication to the collective wellbeing of your peers/subordinates, and loyalty to the mission. As a 2LT you will walk into combat responsible for the lives, discipline, welfare, and morale of 20 or more of America’s sons and daughters, plus their families. Do not take this responsibility lightly. Soldiers will look to you for guidance when the 7.62 rounds start plinking all around your formation. They will be scared, and will rely upon you and the NCOs you help develop to be the foundation upon which they stand to fight."