Csm Jacob Eugene Haller

I have often said, " I stood on the Shoulders of Giants." Two come mind immediately. Both were not very tall and imposing in physical stature. But, both were giants in soldiering, character, leadership, caring, and mentoring. One was CSM (Ret.) Derek Barlow when he was my 1SG in B-2-E at Cp Edward´s in South Korea (1977-1978). I was a very young Sgt. Serving as the Operations NCO. Fast forward a decade later, and the other "Giant" was CSM (Ret.) Jacob Haller in 1986. He was the Fort Leonard Wood Command Sergeant Major and I worked for him as the 1986 Drill Sergeant of the Year (DSOY).

CSM Jake Haller passed away this week at the age of 91. He had a profoundly strong impact upon my career. He was a quiet professional leader that came across to me more so than another other Army leader I served with, as a fatherly like figure. His skill set as a leader were to be emulated by all. Calm, collective, steady in his actions. Very well organized and precise with his actions and deeds. He never directed me to do anything that was outside my directed duties. He would always ask. Of course me being a young Sergeant First Class with only 11 years of service and Jake closing in on a career of 30 plus years his demeanor had me wanting to excel.

CSM Haller joined the Army in 1955 and would tell me he started as a "mule skinner". This just built-up the mystique of serving with someone that had so much more experience than I did. We both had very busy schedules and agendas. But, he always took the time to explain what I did not understand. I learned a tremendous amount of soldiering and leading from his leadership style, actions, and deeds. He empowered me in so many ways. Gave me missions to execute with very little supervision. His care and concern for Soldiers was always in the forethought of his approach to Soldiering. I would often see him crank out six or eight thank you, congratulation or appreciation notes. Why? Because he truly cared. By the time CSM Haller retired and we parted ways, I think I was better prepared to be a CSM than a Platoon Sergeant on my next assignment.

Our social interaction was one of an underling learning all aspects of life as a leader in the Army. He was a class act. Attending social events with senior officers where CSM Haller and I would on occasion be the only enlisted personnel. We traveled TDY a few times to include AUSA events. Wearing bib overalls and a red shirt at a national convention sure brought us attention. One of his hobbies was collecting beer memorabilia. My Dad also had the same hobby. I brought him back a few rare beer cans and odd items from my Dad. Boy, did CSM Haller´s eyes light up! He was such a well rounded leader.

Our year together was one of the most memorable of my nearly 36 year active duty career. I stood on the shoulders of CSM Jake Haller. Leadership is passed from generation to generation and Jake did it as good as any. For this I am forever thankful for his impact upon my life.

God Bless the love of his life Juniata, daughter Deanna, and the rest of the family. Thank You for sharing him with all us Soldiers over the years.
Rest in Peace CSM Haller; until Valhalla.

With much love and respect,

Michael M. Balch
Command Sergeant Major
United States Army Retired