Abstract
This qualitative phenomenological research study examined the influences of servant
leadership characteristics exhibited by USAF intelligence squadron commanders on USAF intelligence E-8 Senior Master Sergeants (SMSgts). The results of the study highlighted the positive influences of servant leadership to include creating a culture where followers feel like a community, creating strong trust between leaders and followers, and increased team cohesion. The aim of the study was to provide scholarly research for use in professional military education (PME) programs, and by senior leaders who direct professional development discussions related to servant leadership at the squadron level.
Keywords: servant leadership, people first, care, trust, commander, community, development