In organizations all around the world, leaders sally forth with inspiring messages of change. Everyone congratulates them on a presentation well delivered, admires the slogan, tucks the brand book into their briefcase[s], and then goes back to their desks and does nothing. . . . Vision without action is a dream.

The joint force staff judge advocate (SJA) has a pivotal role in assisting the operational planners to anticipate, understand, and pursue necessary authorities. Joint force commanders rely heavily on their legal advisors for accurate, timely advice concerning authorities and limits that impact planning and execution. Their recommendations also help shape the commander’s guidance and intent.

At any one time, the Army has employed the equivalent of thirteen brigade combat teams of non-deployable Soldiers. In 2016, I became part of a significant cohort of this group as a Soldier with a preventable musculoskeletal injury. It was 0645 on Monday, 17 February 2016, at Schofield Barracks when I fell while running. I lay on the ground, bewildered, unable to feel my right foot.