Life As An LT | ROTC To Active Duty 

Sage advice. Most of my friends joined the Army as enlisted. Our buddy Chris went ROTC and got Artillery Branch, which I happened to be. I knew he was going to a FIST Team or FDC as a brand spanking new 2LT. I advised him, 1. to walk up to his section chief and hold out his hand and say Sergeant, I don't know shit, teach me the right way. 2. Unless he had to report to the CO or XO to get off his ass and help put up and take down the camo nets, which are a total pain in the ass for a small team. I was told a few years later that he was one of the most respected officers on the gun line and passed down the same advice to new incoming 2LTs. Proud of you Chris for being a leader instead of a douche.

Some good insight. I'm a big fan of don't be a douche

I'm a junior in ROTC and will be commissioning in 2018. I look up to you bro thanks!

As a Army ROTC Cadet who recently just contracted and swore-in, less than a month ago, I want to say thank you for making this video. All the main points you discussed in your video are some major concerns I personally have and happen to share with a lot of other cadets. I appreciate all your videos about your beginnings as a PL and your transition from Cadet to 2LT. Again, thank you for devoting your time to helping future soldiers and thank you for your service. Hooah!

Respect your PSG. he's there to raise you. I've seen officers raised by an amazing NCO. My 2nd LT that deployed with me is now a CPT, he's grown up a lot and is a great leader. don't Confuse your authority for experience. Enlisted and WO'S are there to help you and advise. Good luck Sir.

This is such a inspiration for my kid he is in ROTC and going into the Marines. You are a great role model for our young kids here in the States. You are doing important work man keep it up! You might not realize how high you set the bar for these kids to follow in your footsteps. Thanks Nick much appreciated!

It's a bit of a downer that the Army is losing an insightful officer such as yourself.

As a NCO i agree with your advice. For me my biggest advice for new officers is to listen to your NCOs and soldiers. Don't think just because you went to college and did ROTC that you have the Army all figured out, because you don't. Talk to your NCOs and remember, NCOs train and lead soldiers, work as a team with them and they will support you 100%

Thanks for sharing and really helpful. Is it possible to meet you in person once you are back at hood?

I think you're a great officer man, you have leadership and an officer without leadership isn't an officer. My grandfather is a Vietnam veteran and was an officer and he told me the true qualities of being an officer, and you have those qualities. Love the videos, keep it up man.

:) You and your brother produce such high quality content

Definitely miss Korea. I was stationed there 2009-2011 Camp Casey First Tank 1-72. Thank you for your service sir!

Awesome. I am about to sit my officer trials for the New Zealand Army and I really enjoy your vids and get allot out of them. Your humility really shines through, and the genuinity of how you care for your guys. Keep it up, your channel is a huge inspiration.

I watched this video 4 years ago as a freshman in ROTC. I just commissioned as a 2nd LT. Thank you. 🙏

It’s 2021 and I’m a junior ROTC brat getting inspiration from your videos. I love all your old videos I’m finding and loven all the new content too

That taxi driver probably thinks ur crazy

great video Lt. I was a tank platoon SSGT and would have been very proud to have had you as my PL. I was always very physically in shape and pushed that down too all my troops. I gave PT almost everyday and my guys respected that more then anything. I even made my 1SGT get out and do it with us no matter what. LOL. its to bad your getting out. You would make a fine CO.

Im a high-school senior and I just submitted my ROTC application. Just want to say this video was great. Your channel as a whole is awesome. Ive been following it the past few months and have found it as a great resource to see what life is like as an officer. Thanks for making these, and please keep them coming!

This is Nicks most articulate, competent video to date. No need to watch, just listen a few times and it will greatly benefit you as a junior LT

youll have that 100k play button waiting for you in texas, congrats man, keep grinding

I always thought it must have been tough for 2nd Lt's. But the good 2ndLt's know to listen and learn from the senior NCO's in his Platoon. I think it has been like that for the past 100 years at least. In my first unit we had 2 -2ndLt's who were prior NCO's which i feel they jumped into the leadership position running but that's rare. A good leader develops over time it's very rare to be so called born a leader in my book.

I just recently graduated from Air Force OTS and commissioned as a 2d Lt so I found this video extremely helpful! Thanks man

I saw that trail run you did with your platoon. Brought me back memories of some trails when I was at Ft.Kobbe Panama. Those were good times back in the day. Other than that Sir what you said in this video is god's truth and outstanding.

This sounds absolutely nothing like my experience in the Navy working in aviation maintenance. Always always interesting to hear about different perspectives

I was prior enlisted before commissioning, and I shared your same concerns. You seem very conscientious and professional. After reporting to 7th Marines in 29 Palms, CA., I had a rude awakening. I was assigned PLTCMDR of 3rd "Herd" (all 23 of a 43 man TO unit). My PLTSGT was an impressive physical specimen (E-6) and a dud, to be polite. Gave him back-to-back adverse FITREPS and prayed for someone else. Enter an outstanding E-6 from Marine Security Guard (MSG), Brussels. What a stud and an outstanding SNCO. Deployed to Desert Shield/Storm with him, and had a very successful deployment Pay attention to those NCO's!!!!!

The first time my PL sat me down for a chat, he kept having to remind me to relax! LOL I thought he was a machine (physically and mentally) before this and after he was just a machine physically. Great video Sir!

I commented on your last "day in the life of a platoon leader" video saying how great it was. Gearing up for Marine OCS in January myself, I find this video invaluable. I'm mirroring your hesitations but you put things in a useful perspective. So thanks! Keep the videos coming!

I just want to thank you for the advice, I’m a sophomore in ROTC and watching your video really changed my perspective for the better!

I really enjoy your content sir. You've inspired me to finally start my channel about the military life as a private back here in the states haha

Thanks for this, Nick. It was really helpful because as a MSIII, I've been stressing out about not being able to lead as a PL right away. I am starting my channel about ROTC as a cadet, and hopefully will be able to continue it when I become a 2LT. Keep up the good work!

That was a great video, its cool how the locals just pop up in your videos. Great tips, especially about the NCOs running the show and you always having your troops back

Great leadership advice.. please post more. I'm a PMC running a security detail near Ft. Carson, and I employ a lot of soldiers. Good job LT

2,300 to 100K Congrats Nick! Great info for young soldiers and even better for the older set. Always good for the Senior NCO's and Officers to reflect. Good to see so many SR NCO's coming in and they can share some tips with new young officers - Great stuff Nick and I can't wait to get over to Ft Hood/Austin meeting you in person.

I really appreciate all the advice here as well as the kudos to NCOs like myself. I am a PO2 (E5) in the Navy but just dropped a package to become an Intel Officer in the Coast Guard. If I am selected I will definitely utilize a lot of these tips.

Sir, first and foremost, thank you for your service and thank you for being so humble. So many PL's come in with power trips and refuse to rely or take advice from us SNCOIC 's. I've had some absolute squared away and some absolute sh#t birds for PL's and Co's. I'm sure you're a good one. May I ask Sir, what made you choose Army over any other Branch? Congrats on the growth of the channel and your business. X4 and Be Safe Sir.

Thanks for making this video, and talking about your experience. As someone who served on the enlisted side in the active duty Army, I'm humbled by what you said in this video. Much respect sir! Hooah!

What you are doing here, intertwines with your future. You are definitely on the right track. Wishing you many, many blessings...

I'm so glad I found your channel bro. I'm about to graduate and go into college. I'm considering ROTC and your videos are really helping me in the process.

3rd year cadet here, just wanted to say your videos are very helpful and provide much needed insight.

I was fortunate to have a good infantry pl. Guys will remember you for the rest of your life. You definitely "Led the way"! Good job Nick.

Ah, such a rad video, Nick. We took opposite routes, but I feel like we share many of the same experiences. I was enlisted out of high school, and am now graduating with my B.S. So cool to hear your thoughts as a commissioned officer. Good job, Nick. Take this experience with you everywhere you go. Best, Paul

Hey sir, great video! Exactly what I was looking for. I'm an MS4 Cadet this coming year and I'm aiming for active IN PL, so getting this insight from you was perfect. I had a chance to go to Korea this summer to shadow an XO and be with a real PLT, and you pretty much doubled on what the Officers, NCOs, and lower enlisted told me. I'm definitely intimidated by all the brawn going around, but this year is gonna be dedicated to squaring myself away. Hope you enjoy your final months in Korea!

first LT i've seen that didn't get lost

Bro, this might honestly be the best channel on RU-vid!! Keep at it Nick you're awesome!

It’s my second semester in the Army ROTC, and I’m nervous to become a PL..lol

Praying for your safety and your platoon. Thank you for your service.

You will be missed in the Army. Your guys are lucky to have a leader like you. Awesome advise!

leadership is the "ART" of influencing people to achieve a desired outcome. I liked the video

Nice watching Nick, solid to see you still putting out these videos even though you're time is coming to an end in Korea and busy!

i'm not into the military plot but love listening to you - so here i am enjoying the vlog :)

Freshman year of college. Army ROTC. First FTX next weekend. This video has helped a lot!

I imagine you being a pretty good pl, one I would of liked to serve under. My first duty station my pl was a douche who was only out for himself, and made sure you knew that. Good to see great leadership and understanding!

Someone else mentioned this in a comment and they're right that the Army will truly be missing someone great after you leave. All the best Nick

Thanks for the insight sir! Definitely think your points will take me a long way with my future soldiers as a PL.

I'm applying for the ROTC Scholarship pretty soon I guess and I'm also pretty scared. My Father's an Officer however he got a direct commission and he didn't have to worry about some of this stuff because he was one of them. I commented back in the "Day In the Life" video and it helped a lot. Thanks again.

I aim to go through ROTC myself later on. Right now, I’m on my way to basic

Nick Thank You for your service . Are you still an Army Ofiicer or are you now a Fellow Veteran ? I'm an Air Force Veteran . I served 8 / 71 - 5 / 75 .

I love your videos man!! you are definitely a good leader! just your mindset and character speaks volumes!

You’re a fine young officer. Good luck to you. I served in Korea from 1956-57. Now I have a nephew who is a captain.

Lmao I thought he was about to hip toss that Korean man that walked in the video

My man. Americano, the way to go!

I have no interest on joining any arm force but it's interesting to hear how it functions from your perspective. Your leadership seems grounded on mutual respect for everyone one all levels, humidity and command courtesy to say the least. In other words you're an "awesome guy"‼️

this really helped because i plan to join the air force as an officer, and knowing how to be a leader besides the textbook way is very inciteful. good video nick.

With the current HR/recruitment situation you guys have in US (well, kind of the same thing elsewhere...), I'd like to see if it's any different to be an anything-leader compared to years ago.

Love the videos man! Please do more day in the life videos!!! I'll be attending West Point next year and really like seeing what it is life for real as a LT. Thanks bro keep it up!

As he says - be physically fit, confident yet not cocky, willing to listen and learn, tactically proficient and you should do fine. You will make mistakes - learn from them. ID your quality NCOs as quickly as you can. Take constructive criticism from them. Some NCOs will be outstanding - most will be adequate - a small handful will be problematic. Super job ! - Former Wolfhound / Red Devil

this is possibly your best video ever

A lot of great information here man, another great video as always! Almost at that 100k so we as your supporters are looking forward to something badass to celebrate!! Early congrats to you my man, and thanks again for your service. HOOAH!

Coming from an old combat engineer, you sound like some of the great leaders I had.

the way you open car doors always intrigues me

America's Corps (the 1st Army Corps) motto "Mission First, Soldier Always" (complete/fulfill the mission/task, take care of the soldier/family). On target LT, the Army is on the job training for the most part. Take the O3 promo and GO GUARD, it's said once you've done 5 Active may as well go for the long haul. Todays Army need 11 or 19 Series PL/Commanders with the mind set for success and a touch of compassion. Often leaders have become "beaurocrats" and "politicians". When there's a PL, there too is the PSG, a Commander, there too is the 1SG/CSM, to advise, direct/mentor and support. Leaders aren't born - their made. Food for thought. Never pass by a deficiency. An untrained and uninformed soldier, is a dead soldier. Communication, Loyalty & Selfless Service is 99.9% success, and Experience makes the difference. Forget the bling blings, duty and honor is where it's at. The best in all your endeavours Sir. Stetson & Spurs - SCOUTS OUT!

Nick why did you quit the Army?! You’re honest a great leader the Army

Excellent video. I totally agree with that one point. "Don't be a douche".. And your three points are perfect. Sadly, too many don't follow any of these. I look it as "Love". you love your men, they will love you back.

You are the best Military RU-vidr out here Right now G how old are you right now man.

Outstanding video. Wish I'd had some PLs with your understanding when I was a Squad Leader

Your manners are so good, are you sure you aren’t Canadian?

you're great, I'm going basic real soon. you made me want to be an Lt someday. keep up the great work.

A career in the US Army is really goods with lots of benefits. In my country, there's only one university that offer an rotc-like system and they have serve for like 20 years. It sucks because you rarely get leaves and you have to camp in the jungle most of the time.

You should have title this video... Basics of Leadership: The PL way. Very well put on your 3 points of Leadership. Common language is core to gaining respect and motivation from your direct reports. Good job and I've enjoyed your vids.

Just got your T-Shirt, Shaker, Pre-work out and Aminos. Christmas came early !!!

That's the thing.. It is easy to be in a position to sit in a room to have a conversation. Wither or not it is the right time or place is what is never taken in to consideration. Deciding to not take a career for the future with the Army has to be a big decisions. I am sure you have achieved a lot in the time that you are and have served.

Can't wait to see you back with lil bro pushing some weight and pushing out great vids!!

The Army is losing a good one .. Hooah LT.

You can tell your a good leader sir. #RLTW

Get this guy to 100k subs. With his content he should have atleast 500k.

You hit it head on about the buddy buddy system, it's so true there is no rank structure even though we have a rank structure to use In rotc??? It still blows me away being a cadet

I was C Btry 2-61 ADA Camp Stanley ROK '83-'84. A much different Army.

I am an Ordnance PL with 6 months in the reserves. I can't disagree with anything you've said. For reservists though, listen to people with the most active duty time for about the first 6 months, not necessarily the most time in. You'll quickly figure out the BSers from the NCOs who know what they are talking about. If you are not combat arms my experience has been that no one cares about how much you lift or if you get a 300 on the PT test. ROTC places WAY too much importance on that. If you can do your job and keep everyone safe, you'll be alright. If you can do your job better than the people next to you while keeping people safe and semi happy then you'll be looked very highly upon.

recently come across your videos, myself having served for over 12yrs in the RAF, I can confirm that there are good, squared away Officers who look after their guys, nice to see that you appear to be one in that category. Unfortunately, within the UK Officer class system there is the majority who can only be called a 'douche'.

DD214...Nuff said!

I'm really digging the editing as of late Nick!

Great vids nick , looking forward to checking out your gym

... idk how I feel about those people who just walked up behind you like that it's funny but it's like really...

Best of luck in your career, LT.

you're a smart and enlightening fella. Good information as always.

Awesome video nick keep up the good work

Thanks for this video, man. Really Insightful.

Subscribed! God bless you and thank you for your service!

I love the people coming in to go "Hey RU-vid!!!"

Thanks Nick, going to IBOLC this fall. It's reassuring to hear that I'm not the only one who feels scared shitless haha