Nearly three decades of service in the U.S. Army have defined a life marked by dedication to both service and leadership. Achieving the rank of Sergeant Major, the highest enlisted rank in the Army, is not simply a reflection of time spent in uniform—it is a recognition of extraordinary leadership, commitment, and the ability to navigate some of the most challenging circumstances imaginable. For Sarita Dyer of Georgia, this rank signified not just the culmination of years of hard work but also the profound responsibility to lead others on and off the battlefield. Through her journey, she acquired leadership experiences that few truly understand, from serving in four combat campaigns to earning two Bronze Stars for her exceptional service.
Being a Sergeant Major isn’t something that happens overnight. It’s a journey that starts from the moment a soldier enters basic training, learning not just the physical and mental endurance required, but the values and integrity that define military leadership. Each step in a soldier’s career builds on the last, and for Sarita, the road to Sergeant Major was one paved with immense challenges, growth, and hard-earned respect. As a Sergeant Major, her role wasn’t just about leading—she was also a mentor, guiding younger soldiers and helping them prepare for their own journeys in the military.
The Journey to Sergeant Major
Reaching the rank of Sergeant Major isn’t easy. Soldiers don’t just rise through the ranks—they earn it through demonstrated leadership, perseverance, and an unshakable dedication to their fellow soldiers. For Sarita, that meant leading by example, often in some of the toughest environments the military could offer. Serving in four combat campaigns, she experienced the realities of warfare firsthand. These experiences shaped her as a leader and taught her how to make difficult decisions under extreme pressure—decisions that affected the lives of those under her command.
Combat isn’t just a test of physical strength; it’s a test of character. It was in these moments that her leadership truly shone. In the chaos of combat, when the stakes were highest, leaders like her had to keep a clear head, protect their troops, and complete the mission. It was her ability to do just that which earned her two Bronze Stars, a mark of valor and service in combat zones. But for her, the medals were just a small part of the story.
Her decorated military career includes numerous prestigious awards, such as the Legion of Merit, two Bronze Stars, and many more that reflect her dedication to service. Yet, in her eyes, those accolades were not the defining measure of her success. What truly mattered was the unwavering sense of duty she held for her troops, the missions they accomplished together, and the responsibility she carried for their well-being. Her leadership was not just about personal achievement—it was about making sure those who followed her returned home safe and victorious.
The Role of a Sergeant Major
When you become a Sergeant Major, your responsibilities extend far beyond your own actions. You are entrusted with leading large groups of soldiers, advising officers, and ensuring that the people under your care are not only prepared for the tasks at hand but also supported in their personal and professional growth. This meant being a mentor and a guide to younger soldiers, helping them navigate the challenges of military life and preparing them for their own leadership roles.
One of the most important duties of a Sergeant Major is being the voice of the enlisted soldiers, making sure that their concerns and needs are heard by the officers who command them. This role as an intermediary is critical in maintaining the morale and efficiency of a military unit. Years of experience, both in and out of combat, made her an invaluable advisor to the officers she worked with. Her deep understanding of the soldiers’ perspective helped bridge the gap between the enlisted ranks and the command structure, ensuring that the needs of the troops were never overlooked.
The Enduring Impact of Military Leadership
The influence of a Sergeant Major reaches far beyond the battlefield. After nearly three decades of service, their legacy is woven into the fabric of every unit they led and every soldier they mentored. Leadership at this level isn’t just about making tactical decisions—it’s about shaping the future of the military by developing others. For someone who has spent years in this role, the lessons and experiences gained do not end with retirement; they continue to impact the broader military community.
Whether offering advice to junior NCOs or working in veterans’ advocacy, the values forged in service remain central to their leadership style. The soldiers they mentored carry forward the guidance they received, applying it in both military and civilian settings. This enduring influence demonstrates that the true nature of military leadership lies not only in operational success but in fostering future leaders. The legacy of a Sergeant Major lives on in the people they’ve trained and inspired, continuing to shape lives long after the uniform comes off.
Reaching the rank of Sergeant Major is a testament to a lifetime of dedication, sacrifice, and leadership. Achieving the highest enlisted rank is more than just personal accomplishment—it signifies responsibility to lead and mentor others. It’s a rank that few attain, but those who do, like Sarita, leave an indelible mark on the military and the people they lead. The lessons learned, both in combat and in leadership roles, are carried forward, influencing every new challenge she encounters. Through this rank, and the journey that led to it, leadership was not just demonstrated, but lived.