Military Leadership and Local Government: Experience That Matters

Leadership is leadership—whether it’s exercised in uniform or in a courthouse. During my time in the U.S. Army, I served as a Company Commander, leading close to 300 Soldiers, managing complex systems, and making decisions that directly affected people's lives. Those experiences are not only relevant to serving as a County Judge—they are foundational to how I would approach the role.

Here are three key areas where my Army experience directly applies.

Me and a portion of D Company, 3-2 AVN REGT. Aces High!

Leading and Administering a Large, Complex Organization

As a Company Commander, I was responsible for the administration, readiness, and welfare of a large and diverse organization. That meant managing personnel, budgets, equipment, training schedules, and compliance requirements—all at once, often under pressure.

A county government is also a complex organization. It requires steady leadership, attention to detail, and the ability to balance competing priorities while keeping the mission front and center. In the Army, there was no option to “pass the buck.” The responsibility rested with the commander, and decisions had to be made thoughtfully, lawfully, and in the best interest of the whole organization. That mindset translates directly to serving as County Judge.

Judicial Experience and Decision-Making

Many people are surprised to learn that military commanders routinely perform judicial functions. As a Company Commander, I presided over matters under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). These responsibilities required me to listen carefully, evaluate evidence, apply established rules and procedures, and make fair, impartial decisions.

Those situations demanded the same core skills expected of any civilian judge: sound judgment, respect for due process, consistency, and an understanding that decisions carry real consequences for individuals and families. The experience reinforced the importance of fairness, restraint, and accountability—principles that should guide anyone entrusted with judicial authority.

Serving as a Representative and Liaison

A Company Commander also serves as the primary representative and advocate for their unit. I regularly worked with higher headquarters, other military units, civilian agencies, and community organizations to secure resources, resolve issues, and ensure my soldiers’ needs were met.

In local government, the County Judge plays a similar role—serving as a bridge between different levels of government, community partners, and the public. My Army experience taught me how to communicate clearly, build relationships, and advocate effectively while keeping the broader mission in mind. Those skills are essential for representing Fayette County’s interests and ensuring its voice is heard.

A Foundation of Service

At its core, being a Company Commander was about service—putting people first, making tough decisions, and leading with integrity. Those same values guide my desire to serve as County Judge. The uniform may change, but the responsibility to lead well, act fairly, and serve the community remains the same.

In the coming days, I'll share more details on each of these areas- administration and leadership, judicial responsibility, and serving as a representative and advocate- and how those experiences prepared me to serve as County Judge.