Strengthening Our Naval Profession through a Culture of Leader Development

Authors

James Kelly

Abstract

Who are the leaders in our Navy? If “four star admirals” is the response, that is the wrong answer.* The right answer is: every Sailor, insofar as he or she is responsible for other Sailors, is a leader in our great Navy.† From the most junior enlisted personnel to the most senior officers, all are a part of the leadership equation. Junior enlisted personnel need to be recognized as prospective leaders who have the potential for strategic impact through their performance—not as folks “who just follow orders”—just as senior officers are called on to be bold and decisive leaders with the responsibili- ties of promoting and safeguarding the morale of those under their command. Indeed, all Sailors must understand that we—individually and collectively as the Navy Team—are accountable for the welfare of our shipmates, no matter our respective ranks.

Recommended Citation

Kelly, James (2014) "Strengthening Our Naval Profession through a Culture of Leader Development," Naval War College Review: Vol. 67: No. 1, Article 3.
Available at: https://digital-commons.usnwc.edu/nwc-review/vol67/iss1/3