JUNE 23, 2009
Discipline and Respect for Authority.
We thank Army SSG Louis Varnell & Sgt Paul
Gardner for a job well done!
They both conducted themselves above and beyond the call of duty and have been a great asset to our “Save our Sons”
Leadership
Academy.
“The military” aspect of discipline gave our students a loud and clear message. SSG Varnell and Sgt Gardner were our first choice for discipline instruction. They led some brief drills that instilled a respect for authority in our young boys. Both sergeants spent forty minutes with each of our two groups of boys from ages 7 to 13.
When both Sergeants enterd the room, you could hear gulps and then silence before SSG Varnell’s commanding voice broke out asking the students to sit up and pay attention. The boys learned about he two types of discipline, “self discipline” & “imposed discipline.” These disciplines will mold the
future of those in the class. They learned that if they do not exhibit “self discipline” on their own then they would experience “imposed discipline” from others in authority over them. The boys learned about their freedom of
“choice” that can be taken from them.
The students closed their eyes, relaxed, and pictured themselves sitting on a bus until a figure walked up to the bus and began shouting …..
Then the “imposed discipline" began...
The students experienced real right/left facing drills and some military marching. This first taste of discipline made some of the boys realize that they wanted to choose not to join the military or end up in jail, but pursue "self discipline" and guide their own lives. The drill also made some of the boys realize that a good future & career was possible through "self discipline" and choosing to pursue military aspirations.
The instruction from the sergeants was wonderful & exactly what we were looking to
instill in our students! They students all left knowing that they alone have control over their own attitudes. They learned that by following rules, making the right decisions, & respecting others that they can be successful in the future.
