Introduction
The army has always been and remains one of the most important priorities of any state. Armies are both a defense for a nation, a symbol of national pride, and a powerful tool in foreign policy. However, the power of this tool depends on two main factors: the skills and discipline of the military personnel, as well as the quality of the leadership.
The army’s leadership has a decisive influence on the high professional level of the military personnel and the precise execution of the orders. This essay aims to explain the foundational elements of Army leadership, including the Army Values and the Army Leadership Principles. In conclusion, I will also review examples of great army leaders and their achievements.
Army Leadership Principles
In the modern US Army, leadership should be based on laws and principles to help leaders and their subordinates achieve maximum efficiency. One of the fundamental principles is the “rule of law” principle. This means leaders must adhere to the state and the army’s laws and regulations. This will ensure that leaders and their subordinates work within the existing rules, which will help prevent or minimize conflicts and problems.
Another principle is the “safety assurance” principle. Leadership should be directed towards protecting and supporting the squad and preventing losses. These principles should be applied in all areas – from training and acquiring leadership qualities to conducting operations and managing a team. The third principle is the “constant learning” principle. Leaders must understand that training and development are integral to their work. They must practice modern management methods and use them to achieve set goals. They should also be ready to give the squad the necessary support.
The fourth principle is the “teamwork” principle. This principle aims to focus on giving subordinates recognition of roles and responsibilities and providing them with necessary support and assistance. Leaders should be willing to accept and assess subordinates’ ideas and suggestions and use them to achieve the common goal.
US Army leaders should consider these principles in their modern military leadership to make their squads effective and productive. Leaders must understand that success depends on how well they apply leadership and learning principles (Callina, 451). This will help them achieve maximum efficiency and success in achieving their goals.
Army Values
The United States Army is one of the world’s most respected and revered organizations. The military serves its country to achieve justice and fairness. They represent eight core values they adhere to and faithfully follow: Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage.
Loyalty means being devoted to one’s country and adhering to duty and obligations. Duty implies sticking to promises and fulfilling one’s responsibilities to the country. Respect stems from the army having to show respect to their colleagues and the nation. Selfless Service implies giving without any desire to get something in return.
Honor means being faithful to one’s duty and going the right way. Integrity means being honest and truthful in all that is done. Personal Courage means making the right choices despite the danger (Callina, 447). The United States Army is built on these military values, and they embody the value and significance of Service in the United States Army.
Exemplary Army Leaders
Throughout history, some of the most renowned and successful commanders have come from the military, with many of these leaders renowned for their bravery, strategic planning, and tactical skill. George Washington is a revered figure in United States history for his distinguished leadership of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War and his dedication to the founding of the United States. His leadership style was remarkable, as he could motivate and encourage his troops while also considering the nation’s strategic needs. His most celebrated accomplishment was victory in the Revolutionary War against the British forces.
Dwight D. Eisenhower is renowned for his command of the Allied forces in World War II, leveraging his consensus-building leadership style to great success. His crowning achievement was spearheading the successful invasion of Normandy, leading to the liberation of France and the eventual defeat of Nazi Germany.
Douglas MacArthur was an iconic figure in the United States Army, renowned for his exemplary direction of Allied forces in the Pacific during World War II. His leadership skills saw victory in the Battle of the Philippine Sea and the Battle of Okinawa, as well as the successful post-war occupation and reconstruction of Japan.
These remarkable Army leaders have played a vital role in the development of the United States. Their exemplary leadership and accomplishments have been essential in forming our nation today (Kretchik). They are a reminder of the power and influence of good leadership and its far-reaching impact.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the United States Army is a respected institution built on its core values and principles. Army leaders must understand and adhere to these values and principles to ensure success and effectiveness in their operations. Examples of great army leaders, such as Washington and Eisenhower, have demonstrated the importance of effective leadership and its positive impact on the United States. With exemplary leadership, an army is a powerful tool in protecting the nation, achieving justice, and promoting peace.
Works Cited
Callina, Kristina Schmid, et al. “Character in context: Character structure among United States Military Academy cadets.” Journal of Moral Education 48.4 (2019): 439-464.
Kretchik, Walter E. us Army Doctrine: From the American Revolution to the War on terror. University press of Kansas, 2021.