OHNG Warfighter Culture Fundamentals 

COLLABORATE with Others

Command Sgt. Maj. Scott M. Barga / Ohio National Guard Command Senior Enlisted Leader  ~  WATCH VIDEO ON YouTube

• Ask, “Who else needs to know and can help solve this problem?”
• Reach beyond traditional boundaries to increase perspective.

Earlier this year, General Steve Nordhaus, Chief of the National Guard Bureau, reminded us that for more than 388 years, the National Guard has been the backbone of America’s defense – a force that bridges the gap between our communities and our national security. Unlike full-time active-duty personnel, National Guard members balance civilian careers with military service, giving them a unique blend of skills and perspectives. This dual-role experience encourages creative thinking and innovative solutions. To harness this advantage, we must create a culture that supports experimentation, embraces learning through failure, and values bold ideas from every level – whether it’s a mechanic in the motor pool or a cyber expert in a rural town. True innovation also requires collaboration: “Who needs to know?” and “Who can help solve this?” Collaboration across units, specialties, and even civilian sectors expands our view and strengthens outcomes. Our strength lies in the ingenuity of the American spirit – something our adversaries can’t replicate. The National Guard legacy of adapting and overcoming empowers our people to lead with curiosity, collaborate with others, and connect across roles to build the future together.

A prime example of collaboration in the Ohio National Guard is the recent Live in 25, which was a five-day war simulation at the Wilmington Air Park, which marked the first time in Ohio Air National Guard history that all four wings collaborated for a war rehearsal at a non-military institution. Live in 25 provided our Airmen with an opportunity to experience real-world conditions that they might encounter when facing a sophisticated adversary before they get to a deployed environment. The collaboration between the Ohio Air National Guard, Ohio Army National Guard (who took on the role of OPFOR), and the Clinton County Port Authority was a key element in the success of this event.

We must commit to Collaborate with Others and have a positive impact on the entire Department of Defense. That is the culture we want to be known and respected for. It requires daily ritualization of the values we are committed to. Reference all OHNG Warfighter Culture Fundamentals at Fundamentals, print and post this week’s Fundamental in your workplace and include it in your signature block as a continuous reminder to Collaborate with Others.