Humphrey Chang is a leader that has been instrumental in making me who I am. His legacy of taking initiative, hard work and living with purpose inspire people. He overcame great odds and made the most of his opportunities; he worked hard for the greater good of his family and community; and he lived passionately, inspire people. This hard working Hmong immigrant grew up in Laos without parents and made the most of his military career to give his heirs a chance for a better life in America. His selfless service saved the lives of many people. He was self-motivated; always led by example; and he was compassionate and communicated well with everyone. His deep sense of faith and purpose permeated his life and was apparent to many around him.…show more content… Although at that time, Koua was shorter than the rifle he carried, he proved to be useful because of his grasp for languages. The military sent him school to learn how to read and write Lao and he completed his training, knowing multiple languages (Lao and Thai as well as some French and some English). As a young officer he showed initiative and rose through the ranks, commanding a company by age 23. At the height of the Vietnam War, just before the US pulled out of Southeast Asia, Koua was serving as a Battalion Operations Officer.
After the US withdrew from Vietnam in 1973, Koua was among the initial group of Soldiers who led refugees out of Laos, across the Mekong River and into Thailand. Many people lost their lives fleeing across the 1200 feet Mekong River, which separates Laos from Thailand. The current carried many refugees who attempted to swim across this river to their death. Fortunately for one man, Koua was able to rescue him from drowning in the Mekong…show more content… Humphrey Koua Chang had all 8 core competencies. Being a Company Commander during war time involves a certain level of leadership; he led refugees into Thailand; he led his family to America; and he led at church. Humphrey had influence beyond the Chain of Command; he was not always in the military and when he was not in the military he contributed to his family and his community. He led by example, living the way he wanted his family to live; pursuing self and professional development (learning from manuals and through military education). He learned to communicate in multiple languages. Humphrey Chang helped those around him and made his community better by saving a life; assisting in establish a refugee camp; giving people hope. He had a lot of motivation to make himself better. Through his actions, his children grew up to be leaders and people survived to lead others: one of these leaders is a Staff Sergeant in the United States Army, who in turn is setting an example for young