A LEADERSHIP STORY FROM IRAQ

Cristina Wilson
Jun 10
2 min read

Leadership isn't about being the highest rank. It's about being the one others trust to lead.

When I deployed to Iraq in 2005, I never expected to be selected as a convoy commander. I was an E6 at the time—the only female among the four convoy commanders. The other three were senior-ranking E7s.

And yet… they chose me.

Not out of pity. Not for show.

They chose me because they trusted I could lead.

We were tasked with dangerous missions that required absolute clarity, calm, and confidence under pressure. Every route carried risks. Every decision carried weight. And every Soldier in that convoy counted on the leader at the front.

That experience shaped my definition of service—not as a title, but as a responsibility. And it taught me something about leadership I carry to this day:

Service is showing up with courage. Sacrifice is doing what needs to be done—even when no one’s watching.

LESSON IN LEADERSHIP

Being the only woman—and the youngest in rank—wasn’t the point. The point was that my peers believed I had what it took to lead. And I had to believe it too.

That experience taught me that leadership isn’t about waiting until you feel ready. It’s about rising when others are counting on you.

And often, it’s not the loudest person or the most decorated… it’s the one willing to take responsibility and move forward.

SERVICE & SACRIFICE

So when I talk about service, I’m not just talking about deployments. I’m talking about showing up for your community. Your family. Your team.

True service is done because you care—not because you’re chasing recognition. And sacrifice? That’s the quiet decision to keep showing up for people—even when no one sees it but you.

U.S. FLAG DAY REMINDER

As we approach Flag Day (June 14), I invite you to pause and reflect on the people in your life who lead with quiet strength… The ones who serve, not for accolades, but because they care.

Think of the parent who works two jobs.

The mentor who never gave up on you.

The teammate who carries the load when no one else volunteers.

That is service. That is sacrifice. And leadership rooted in those values is what the world needs more of right now.

📖 RECOMMENDED RESOURCE: Finding Your Why

If today’s story resonated with you, my book Finding Your Why dives deeper into how purpose, direction, and motivation became my personal leadership mantra—from the battlefield to the boardroom.

🎯 Grab your copy here and start your own journey of meaningful leadership.

ONLINE COURSES TO GO DEEPER

Looking to lead with even more clarity and confidence?

Explore my top leadership picks this month: ✅ Positive Mindset Mastery: Thriving Under Stress ✅ Leadership & Influence ✅ Mastering Time: A Blueprint for Entrepreneurs