Serving with Honor: a Soldier's Lessons in Leadership

by Glenn Schmick

Explore what life is like for soldiers and ways leadership shapes people from a veteran whose decades-long career transports readers from the pine forests of Fort Benning to some of the most desolate places in the world.

Army hero Glenn Schmick holds the rare insight of how wars have changed over the years and where the military’s needs lie for a viable future. From being raised in poor America to praised as a senior official, his journey through the ranks is all grit—and his observations leave no stone unturned. He masterfully explains how to work your way up in the army, the prevalence of good and bad leaders, the bloated bureaucracy of the military, and his personal struggles with PTSD. Moreover, he reminds other soldiers (and civilians) that being better despite the odds can lead to greatness.

Schmick’s lessons ultimately highlight the love and sacrifice embedded in being part of the greatest fighting force the world has ever known.

230 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 12, 2024

Reviews

[Ronald W. Hoskins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Couldn't put it down!!!

An outstanding story from an amazing officer! I had the honor of serving under CPT Schmick while he was assigned to the 554th MP Company. It was an excellent experience learning from him with his can do philosophy. Angela was the epitome of graciousness. Always willing to assist in any unit functions or the unit Family Support Group. Although sad to see them leave, I was truly happy for them to go onto bigger and better opportunities. What incredible experiences you have been through, I could not put this book down! Each page and story just drew you right into it. Knowing him somewhat, I have no doubt that he has plenty of other stories to tell and can't wait for volume #2!!! Congratulations Sir, I applaud you 👏.

[Laurie A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Soldier’s Lessons in Leadership by Colonel Glenn Schmick was a novel easier to read than the actions experienced by this author! Reading this novel about military experiences was one I am glad I did not miss. The life of this Colonel from high school to the present time is filled with brutal pain and family love. As a civilian, I did not have any idea of the extent of the training and torture you must endure when you sign up to serve our country. His stories told of great personal physical and mental sacrifice experienced by him and those around him, made him and his peers very endearing. Some of his peers were not so endearing as human nature, but it was a story that I learned, loved, and hated. Comparing the number of soldiers who joined up to serve, to the low number who made it through to many years was amazing. The stories of this author were told with such detail and feeling that I felt that I could understand what he was participating in. Training for war and protecting the United States is no easy task. We must be grateful for all that they have accomplished. Throughout this book, Colonel Schmick stated he could tell stories within these stories, I look forward to more of these from this author. He is an enjoyable author who puts his life out there like it was.

[Meghan · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is an unbelievable story about what it takes to be a real American Hero. Glenn Schmick showcases his story from growing up in poor America to moving his way up to the senior official in the military, proving that despite all odds, you can experience greatness. Schmick’s book truly defines what it means to be a hero. He conquered it all, especially when he had to overcome the biggest of obstacles. However, he uncovers what it truly takes to pull through the most brutal environments and even handle the harshest critics to rise and be one of the best leaders.

After I read this book, it's clear why every civilian should thank current soldiers and veterans. It showcases what it truly takes to fight for our freedom. The trials Schmidt encountered during his childhood and military service are mind-blowing. He deserves all the accolades he has received, including some. Then, deciding to pay it forward as a memoir in teaching current soldiers and civilians valuable lessons on leadership and honor is super admirable. So, from the bottom of my heart, it's an honor to read this book. Thank you, Glenn Schmick, for your service and for telling your story!

There was nothing to dislike about this book. It is an honor to have read the book. The book was brilliantly edited, written, and structured. For these reasons, this book deserves five stars.

[Eric Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes a good memoir about military service works well when you want some inspiration. While I have my own experiences with various leaders during my 15-year career, this pretty much beats it. While Glenn went officer, and I went non-commissioned officer, you see some of the good, bad, and ugly of military leaders in this book. It’s pretty interesting what he went through, him joining in 1990 and me in 1998. Anyway, he vividly describes Ranger school and his toils troubles, and victories as an MP officer. I honestly cracked jokes about MPs, but I usually left them alone because they could usually arrest me for something, and I’d be out of luck, so there’s that. However, the book is a good read and I liked his descriptions of officer behavior, because some of my characters are going to be in his position, and some colorful officer attitudes will do nicely for my stories. But the credit goes to Glenn, and it’s a good book to read about being an officer in the global war on terrorism period.

[Fernando Fischer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Immediately hooked. I will be starting my Army career soon. This was an amazing glimpse into the Army world through the eyes of a relatable, highly ethical and capable hero.