“I understand there have been issues regarding respect and conduct within this unit,” she stated, her words cutting through the tension like a knife. “Respect is the cornerstone of our military values. It seems some reminders are in order.”

The soldiers stood at attention, their earlier bravado dissipated. General Hartley spoke not out of anger, but with the intent to educate, to instill in them the principles that they had seemingly forgotten. She recounted stories from her own experiences, times when she had faced adversity and how the camaraderie and support of her fellow soldiers had been her greatest strength.