OHNG Warfighter Culture Fundamentals 

MAKE Fact-Based Decisions

Colonel Rebecca Rudy / Director of Staff, Ohio Air National Guard  ~  WATCH VIDEO ON YouTube

• Drive decision making with a fact-based approach, combining rigorous analysis and objective evaluation.
• Balance instinct with objective evidence to develop well-reasoned choices.

A strong, intentional culture values truth, clarity, and accountability - especially when it comes to making decisions. Driving decision-making with a fact-based approach means combining rigorous analysis with real-world understanding. It’s not about ignoring instincts but about grounding our choices in objective evidence to ensure they’re well-reasoned, fair, and effective. When we lead with facts, we build trust and credibility. Clear data helps teams align around shared goals and make informed decisions, even under pressure. It also encourages transparency, reduces bias, and allows leaders to communicate the WHY behind their actions. A great culture balances intuition with insight. Leaders ask the hard questions, test assumptions, and lean on both experience and data to guide the way. This discipline strengthens the decision-making process and ultimately leads to more resilient, mission-aligned outcomes.

As General Lori Robinson, the first woman to lead a major Unified Combatant Command, once said: “You can’t just go with your gut. You need to bring in the data, talk to the team, and challenge your own thinking. That’s real leadership.”

Fact-based decisions are a hallmark of excellence. They ensure we stay focused on what matters most – results, readiness, and the people we serve. When leaders make informed choices, they model a culture of thoughtfulness, responsibility, and continuous improvement.

We are counting on everyone to Make Fact-Based Decisions and strive for excellence every day. 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 Make Fact-Based Decisions.