The US Army has gone through many mottos and slogans.

From 1971 to 1980 it was "Today's Army Wants to Join You"
From 1980 to 2001 it was "Be All You Can Be"
From 2001 to 2006 it was "Army of One"
From 2006 to presents it is "Army Strong"

I can remember when my dad first told me the new slogan / motto was Army Strong. I thought it was lame in comparison. Army of One has some punch. Be All You Can Be continues to be one most people's thought when it comes to the Army.

Then I had an opportunity to listen to my dad speak.

I can't tell you what he spoke about, but I can tell you what happened at the end.

My dad ended with the following words:

"Army Strong."

The response was deafening. Every solider within that room responded with an Army "HOOAH!"

Recently, my dad received a very notable promotion. As part of that promotion, I was able to attend with other members of my family to support my dad for his promotion. In the room where my dad was being promoted were 300 of the most powerful and influential men within the US Army and other branches. As my dad made his way through his remarks, everyone in the room understood why he was the man selected. How did he end?

"Army Strong."

The response of the room was enough to shake your bones and give you the chills.

As I look to leadership, I can help but think of how this could have an effect on how I lead. Something about ending with the same line every time and actually meaning it can be enough to continue to motivate even in dry seasons. To call strength out of you even when you are weak.

Wherever you find yourself leading, and you lead if there is breath in your lungs, Lead Strong.