Simon Sinek Offers Inspiration to Future Marine Corps Leaders at USO Entertainment Event

By Barry Morris

Leadership in today’s military demands more than tactical expertise, it requires adaptability, sound judgment and the ability to lead through complex challenges. At Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, this past August, more than 150 service members and NATO officers had the opportunity to explore these themes during a USO-hosted discussion with leadership expert and author Simon Sinek.

The event was part of a USO Military Virtual Programming (MVP) session for students of the Marine Corps University’s Command and Staff College at Marine Corps Base Quantico. The USO MVP program connects service members with thought leaders, athletes, artists, celebrities and authors to inspire and uplift those serving around the world – bringing these noteworthy guests directly to service members through virtual programming.

Simon Sinek, best known for his books “Start with Why" and “Leaders Eat Last,” engaged directly with service member attendees through a moderated Q&A, offering candid insights on self-awareness, empathy in leadership and the critical importance of building trust within teams – all subjects that can be applied to military life.

“Today’s event was actually a surprise for Command and Staff,” said Maj. Olaolu Ogunyemi, a communications officer in the Marine Corps. “I didn’t recognize we’d have such a well-known leader and expert in the industry talk to us. I really enjoyed the insights he gave us about emotional intelligence — especially around situational awareness and supporting those around us. It’s amazing that the USO can bring such a phenomenal guest to Marine Corps University.”

Marine Corps Lt. Col. Michael D’Eredita, who leads the Leadership Department at Command and Staff College, said the opportunity came at the perfect time in the academic year.

“Simon’s session aligned beautifully with our emotional intelligence seminar and the overarching theme of our Foundations course,” Michael said. “This was an incredible opportunity for our students and faculty to gain real-time insight from a globally respected thought leader. Emotional intelligence is a topic of increasing importance here, and to hear Simon’s perspectives firsthand was invaluable.”

Marine Corps Maj. Scott Aquino, an F-35B pilot and fellow Command and Staff student, echoed the value of Sinek’s virtual visit.

“It was a great experience,” Scott said. “Getting real-time feedback from someone like Simon — not over email or phone, but directly — adds so much depth. The biggest leadership nugget I’ll take away is how to foster buy-in through asking the right questions. Instead of pointing out a shortfall, ask how they felt they performed. That builds trust.”

For both Olaolu and Scott, the moment reinforced a shared truth about their military journey: the USO is always there for the people who serve.

“Whether it’s the airport in San Diego, Ali Al Salem in Kuwait, or here at Quantico, the USO has supported me throughout my career,” Olaolu shared. “I’m very grateful.”

Scott agreed.

“Just two weeks ago, my family and I were flying out of San Antonio and went straight to the USO,” he said. “It’s always the first place I think of for comfort and support.”

USO MVP program events such as these have become a critical morale booster and educational tool for service members stationed around the globe. Through USO MVP, the troops have been connected with high-profile figures and leaders such as Matthew McConaughey, Mike Rowe, Dr. Brené Brown and General Stanley McChrystal. Events like these help address the mental, emotional and intellectual needs of today’s military professionals.

“This is more than just a lecture,” said Scott. “It’s a connection — to ideas, to values and to the larger human element of military leadership. The USO’s ability to facilitate that is exceptional.”

As the Marines, soldiers and NATO partners of the Marine Corps University’s Command and Staff College continue their academic year, they do so now with renewed inspiration. This USO Entertainment event was more than a chance to hear from a bestselling author – it was a moment of motivation during the everyday challenges of military life. The USO continues to bring world-class guests directly to the people who serve, offering not just entertainment, but a reminder that no matter the mission, they’re never alone in their service journey.