2017 NCLS
USAFA is hosting the 24th Annual National Character and Leadership Symposium (NCLS) this week.
"The National Character and Leadership Symposium is held in February with a different theme each year, deliberately building upon the previous years' theme. Last year's theme was "Professionalism and the Profession of Arms."
It is said to be "one of the premier national symposia in the field of character and leadership. Which brings together distinguished scholars, military leaders, corporate leaders, world-class athletes, and others to explore a character-related theme based on the United States Air Forces Academy Outcomes.
This years two-day symposium, "provides an opportunity for all Academy personnel, visiting university students and faculty, and community members to experience dynamic speakers and take part in group discussions to enhance their own understanding of the importance of sound moral character and good leadership."
The 2017 Theme is "Warrior Ethos and the American Airman."
"The Air Force Academy fosters development of a "warrior ethos" that springs from commitment to the Air Force Core Values. These values are deeply interwoven in what it means to be an Airman in the profession of arms. They suggest that a warrior must reflect: Integrity, a foundation of trust and sine qua non in sustaining teams under stress; Service, a commitment to professional duty ahead of personal desire; and Excellence, reflected in continuous honing of physical, mental and professional skills, increased real capability, and high performance in the face of complex and dynamic challenges.
Above and beyond these essential building blocks, warriors exhibit the discipline to adhere to professional standards, grit and persistence in the face of hardships, and moral and physical courage despite professional or personal risk. "
We happened to stop by two of NCLS's Guests Speakers talking to the Cadets, Faculty and anyone else who came out to attend this years NCLS. Col (Ret) Greg Gadson and Ms. Heather Penney.
Col (Ret) Greg Gadson
Col (Ret) Greg Gadson's topic of dicussion is, "Circumstances Don't Define Us." In the video below we captured glimpses of what he talked about as well as questions he answered from the audience.
Ms. Heather Penney
Ms. Heather Penney's topic of dicussion is, "Reflections on Common Courage." In the video below we captured glimpses of the story she told to the audience about her experience on 9/11.
To view the rest of the pictures from our glimse into NCLS go to; Galleries - Military Training - Character and Leadership Development. Or click the link below.
2017 National Character and Leadership Symposium "Warrior Ethos and the American Airman"