High, I forgot what the grund-pounder culture was like, treating every problem like a nail because the only tool they are comfortable with is a hammer, and woah onto any who even think about using another (and in most case, more appropriate) tool.
You all seem to place a LOT of leadership on credibility with the troops. Specifically, credibility gained because your willing to do what your troops are doing -- if they have to do it, I should do it too. And that's fine, even respectable. I instead place on much higher emphasis on gaining credibility from my troops in HOW WELL I LEAD MY TEAM TOWARDS MISSION ACCOMPLISHMENT. I want my team to know that I will make sure they can get the mission done through my efforts, either by passing my knowledge and experience, or by jumping in with them and turning the damn wrench myself if they need the extra hands.
So yes, playing a team sport IS important, learning through experience to overcome obstacles IS important. Leading by example IS important. Emphasizing being tough over being smart? Not so much.
Why has the AF decided that a large portion of our basic training should include "camping" and "playing Army"? Because that has been the current conflict, and we want to be seen "playing our part" because the average citizen, to include those who decide where the money goes, haven't a clue on how airpower contributes to the COIN fight. This is unfortunate, but not as unfortunate as what that AF leadership has done in response: try to "play Army"
You want to have a training experience where those being trained are challenged while the cadre is learning to lead? Well, I do as well. Give the cadets challenges that are MISSION FOCUSED, but have the cadre LEAD the team vice just yelling at them to do the job. I could give dozens of examples, but instead we have our cadre yelling at our cadets because the area around their tent isn't secure, or their butts are sticking too high up during a low crawl.
And as to "how can a troop respect me if I'm not willing to also sleep in the field?". Well, simple answer: I DID that already. Doing it once proved I was tough. Doing it mulple times for no reason with no impact towards mission accomplishment? That just proves I'm either masochistic or stupid. Or worse, both.