A conversation with a National Treasure: 12th SMA Jack Tilley.

It was my distinct honor to interview SMA Jack Tilley, a distinguished military and civilian leader, on LinkedIn Live. I first met SMA Tilley at the Pentagon when I was deployed there as a liaison with the military police and pentagon police department after 9/11. I asked him for an informational interview, and he graciously accepted, giving me 30 minutes of his time. I was struck by his down-to-earth and humble personality, and his leadership style of treating people with respect regardless of their position.

Last month, I called SMA Tilley and asked him for an interview on LinkedIn Live, which he agreed to. Despite technical difficulties during the first attempt, we rescheduled and had an enjoyable conversation. SMA Tilley's stories are amazing to listen to, and his impact on people's lives is inspiring. I read an article he wrote about a soldier who came up to him about a year ago and confessed how meeting him changed his life. SMA Tilley was humbled and appreciative of the life he has led.

During our interview, SMA Tilley shared his leadership philosophy of being a matter-of-fact type of leader who believes in solving problems at all levels. He is a realist who knows there are many ways to approach problems. He also plugged his podcast show, where he shares insights on how to make things happen after leaving the military.

SMA Jack Tilley is a National Treasure, and it was an honor to become friends with such a great human. I have always believed in the content of a person's character over everything else, and SMA Tilley exemplifies this belief. He is a straight shooter who tells it like it is, and I respect his approach to leadership. Most of the top leadership I have met are great people, but confusion often happens in the middle with everyone trying to get to the top.

In conclusion, I want to thank SMA Jack Tilley for his time and kindness during our interview. I look forward to interacting with him more and learning from his insights and experiences. He is a true inspiration to millions, and his legacy will continue to impact people's lives for years to come.

References:

1. "SMA (Ret) Jack Tilley - Leadership" on LinkedIn: https://www.dhirubhai.net/in/jacktilley/
2. "Jack Tilley, Sergeant Major of the Army" on Arlington National Cemetery website: https://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/Explore/Notable-Graves/Leaders/Jack-Tilley-Sergeant-Major-of-the-Army
3. "Soldiers for Life: SMA Jack L. Tilley" on U.S. Army website: https://www.army.mil/article/115834/soldiers_for_life_sma_jack_l_tilley