"Leadership isn’t given—it’s earned through integrity, resilience, and the unwavering commitment to serve others." – Julius W. Gates, Earn It By Gates
ABOUT THE AUTHORS
SMA (Ret.) Julius W. Gates
Julius W. Gates, a native of North Carolina, served 33 years in the U.S. Army, including tours in Germany, Vietnam, and Korea. As the 8th Sergeant Major of the Army, he championed training initiatives like the Year of Training and Year of the NCO campaigns, which led to the creation of The NCO Journal. Gates was instrumental in developing the Battle Staff NCO Course, a new NCO Evaluation Report, and the Self-Development Test. He continues to support the Army by advising the Joint Readiness Training Center and visiting Soldiers in the field.
COL (Ret.) Wes Martin
Colonel Wes Martin is a decorated U.S. Army veteran with over three decades of leadership experience in military operations, law enforcement, and international security. A pioneer in counter-terrorism and force protection, Colonel Martin has served in key positions across the globe, including Iraq, where he oversaw coalition base security and managed high-stakes negotiations. His expertise spans strategic planning, risk assessment, and crisis management, making him a sought-after advisor and speaker on global security and leadership. Today, Colonel Martin continues to inspire others through his dedication to service, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence.
STORE
Earn it By Gates
Publisher: NCO Historical Society; First Edition
Publication date: TBD
Overview:
In Earn It By Gates, Julius W. Gates, the 8th Sergeant Major of the Army, delivers a compelling narrative that blends personal stories, leadership lessons, and practical advice for life’s journey. Drawing on his distinguished military career and a lifetime of service, Gates explores the principles that define effective leadership: integrity, accountability, and resilience. From his humble beginnings in North Carolina to his tenure as a senior advisor shaping Army policy, Gates offers readers a roadmap to success that transcends professions and generations. This book is not only a memoir but also a call to action for anyone striving to lead with purpose and leave a lasting legacy.
Prologue:
Leadership is not a title—it is a responsibility. It’s earned through hard work, trust, and the courage to stand firm in the face of adversity. My journey began in the fields of North Carolina, where I learned the value of perseverance and respect. Those lessons became the foundation for a career that would take me from the ranks of a young soldier to the office of the Sergeant Major of the Army.
Along the way, I witnessed triumphs and trials that shaped my understanding of what it means to lead. I saw the power of unity in the chaos of combat, the importance of mentorship in guiding the next generation, and the strength that comes from holding yourself accountable to the highest standards.
This book is my story, but it is also a collection of lessons for anyone willing to put in the work to achieve greatness. Whether you’re leading a team, raising a family, or simply trying to be better today than you were yesterday, I hope these pages inspire you to earn it every step of the way.
CONTACT
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Website:
www.earnitbygates.com