Reflections on Leadership
Noelle Skinner speaks about her experience working with the Founder of GCV
(GCV 6 Note: On my second deployment to Afghanistan, a young Afghan stood up during a Shura to thank me for something. I tried to stop the young man, but a Village Elder told me, “Tooran Will, you must let us thank you, or you rob of us of that.”)
Lt Col William B. Selber (retired) stands as a beacon of charisma, approachability, and unwavering commitment to his people. Throughout his distinguished Air Force career, he embodied the values of service before self and left a legacy that continues to inspire those who served under him.
One of the most memorable moments under his command was his keynote speech at our Combat Dining-In. In that speech, he emphasized that we are a family who never leaves anyone behind—a message that resonated deeply with everyone in the room. He didn’t just say these words; he lived them. His actions consistently reinforced the idea that our squadron was more than just a collection of individuals—it was a unified team, bound by mutual respect and a shared sense of purpose.
While many have heard about Lt Col Selber’s impactful service in Afghanistan, I want to shine a light on another chapter of his career that deserves equal admiration—his time as one of the great commanders of a small intelligence squadron. From June 2021 to June 2023, Lt Col Selber led 240 Airmen and civilians in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations, supporting five separate combatant commands. Under his leadership, the squadron thrived, forging a strong identity and sense of unity despite its modest size.
Lt Col Selber’s approachable, authentic leadership style was especially evident in this role. He cultivated an environment where every Airman felt valued and empowered, regardless of rank or background. His ability to recognize and celebrate the achievements of his team members helped foster a culture of excellence and camaraderie that extended beyond the daily mission.
Even as he navigated the complexities of global intelligence operations, he never lost sight of the people at the heart of the mission. His tenure as squadron commander stands as a testament to his belief that great leadership is about building strong teams, supporting each individual, and inspiring others to achieve more than they thought possible. Though perhaps less publicized than his time overseas, this chapter of his career left a profound and lasting impact on everyone who served with him.
Lt Col Selber’s leadership style was marked by authenticity. He was approachable, always willing to listen, and never one to engage in empty flattery. Instead, he recognized and celebrated the achievements of others, lifting them up even as he navigated his challenges. This ability to connect on a personal level fostered a strong sense of squadron identity, which he built in just two years—a testament to his genuine care for those he led.
His dedication extended far beyond his time in uniform. After retiring from the Air Force, Lt Col Selber became a respected writer and advocate for Afghan allies, using his voice and platforms like the Afghan American Veterans Alliance (AAVA) and Grumpy Combat Vet (GCV) to champion their cause. His commitment to service did not end with his military career; it evolved, reaching new communities and continuing to make a difference in the lives of those who needed it most.
A defining aspect of his legacy is his commitment to mental health. Lt. Col. Selber was open about the impact of moral injury and the importance of seeking help, drawing powerful parallels between caring for physical injuries and tending to mental wounds. Along with Kate K., he created a safe space where active-duty members and veterans could come together to share their experiences and struggles. This space was more than just a support group—it was a sanctuary where people felt welcome, accepted, and free to discuss their challenges without fear of judgment or reprisal. His advocacy helped break down barriers and encouraged many, including myself, to seek help for PTSD and other traumatic experiences.
Among the many memories I cherish, two stand out as particularly meaningful. The first was running the Marine Corps Historic Half-Marathon together in Fredericksburg, Virginia. The event itself is steeped in history and tradition, taking runners through the heart of Fredericksburg, past significant landmarks and battlefields. We didn’t exactly run side by side—he ran, and I survived (almost crawled), but together, we conquered the infamous “Hospital Hill,” cheered on by Marines and local supporters. The race was a powerful testament to endurance, camaraderie, and the bonds forged through shared challenges.
On a different day, in a moment equally significant but distinct from the race, Lt Col Selber reenlisted me on the battlefields of Fredericksburg. The reenlistment ceremony, set against the backdrop of historic grounds, was a solemn and inspiring occasion. It perfectly encapsulated his dedication to his people and to the enduring values of military service. Standing on those hallowed fields, I felt a deep sense of pride and gratitude to be reenlisted by a leader who so fully embodied the ideals we strive to uphold.
Lt Col Selber’s influence also extended to his advocacy for Afghan allies. As a senior military advisor and intelligence officer, he worked closely with Afghan partners and later used his experience to write and speak on their behalf. His efforts through organizations like AAVA have provided critical support and raised awareness for those who stood alongside U.S. forces, ensuring they are not forgotten.
His career was marked by a series of challenging and impactful assignments—from leading intelligence teams supporting operations in Iraq and Afghanistan to acting as a senior advisor to ambassadors and working with provincial reconstruction teams. These experiences shaped his understanding of leadership, resilience, and the importance of community—lessons he passed on to those he mentored.
Looking back, it’s clear that his legacy is defined not just by his rank or accolades, but by the countless lives he touched. His empathy, support, and unwavering belief in the power of human connection have left an indelible mark on all of us. Whether through a heartfelt conversation, a word of encouragement, or the creation of a safe space for others to heal, Lt Col Selber has shown what it truly means to lead.
His story reminds us that leadership is about more than authority—it’s about service, compassion, and the courage to stand by your values, no matter the circumstances. Those who had the privilege of serving with him will never forget his impact, both in and out of uniform. His empathy, support, and family legacy will forever inspire those who follow in his footsteps.
And I’ll never forget those memories—especially the day we ran through Fredericksburg, with the cheers of the crowd echoing around us and the quiet pride I felt being reenlisted by a leader who exemplifies the very best of what it means to serve.
What a beautiful and deserving tribute. Noelle has reminded us of Selber's dedication and intelligent handling of people and situations.
Noelle....you have a very simple and easy to read writing style. And that takes talent.