[August 13, 2020] I’m old enough to remember seeing – with my own eyes – the terrible treatment of our Vietnam War vets when returning from war. When I joined the U.S. Army in late 1974, I made myself a promise that I would not tolerate such egregious behavior by anyone. The treatment these veterans received was unacceptable… Read More »
[August 12, 2020] I’m starting a new mini-series about leadership lessons taken from the writings of famous Revolutionary War heroes. To begin the series, I will start with Samuel Adams (1722-1803) as one of the Founding Fathers of the United States and political philosopher. After Sam Adams passed away, his legacy was shrouded in controversy. In the early… Read More »
[August 3, 2020] In May of this year, I wrote that I would be dedicating space to discuss the leadership traits of George C. Marshall.1 This article is my second installment on that promise. I’ve chosen Marshall to focus upon because of his proven planning and organizing skills during World War II and post-war. Referred to as “the… Read More »
[August 1, 2020] Occasionally, in the pages of www.theleadermaker.com, I highlight an organization that is making a difference. Today, I’m introducing the Lost 52 Project. They are about providing the “fullest possible documentation and accounting” of the locations of 52 U.S. submarines lost during World War II. Few words describe what they do, but I like honor and… Read More »
[July 21, 2020] For the past few months, I’ve been looking on eBay to find some old World War II posters for my office. I ran across one with the words “Follow Me!” emblazoned across the top. It turns out that Follow Me is a famous leader command and is the motto of the U.S. Infantry.1 When asked… Read More »
[July 18, 2020] Among the opening scenes in the movie Gladiator (2000), Roman general Maximus is readying his cavalry to charge into the rear of a large barbarian army. To motivate his men, he encourages them to show strength and honor in the face of the enemy. Maximus, played by Russell Crowe, tells his cavalrymen in their attack… Read More »
[July 10, 2020] In the summer of 1940, Parisians were awakened to the sound of a German-accented voice announcing an 8 p.m. curfew as German troops entered Paris, France.1 Nevertheless, the invasion of the European mainland did not begin until three years later. On this date, July 10, 1943, the invasion of Europe started. It was long overdue.2… Read More »
[July 4, 2020] I’m a patriot. I’m loyal to our Nation. And I make no apologies for it. Period. On this 4th of July, I plan to salute America as I recognize the birth date of the country. To be a real patriot, you have to also know about the Declaration of Independence itself. The Declaration of Independence… Read More »
[June 27, 2020] World War II produced photographs that still capture our attention. One of the most famous is the iconic photo by Joe Rosenthal of U.S. Marines raising the Star and Stripes over Mt. Suribachi on Iwo Jima, February 23, 1945.1 What is lesser known for Americans is the story behind another famous photo; this one of… Read More »
[June 21, 2020] I grew up in a very religious household, weekly attending church services, being part of prayer groups, and associating closely with other church members. It was a time to learn and to build character; we learned to be a ‘good’ person. Love your enemies is one of the often-quoted texts of the Bible. But I… Read More »