US Navy SEAL Ethos - A Leadership Lesson

I was watching a video posted on Neptunus Lex which featured a General from the Netherlands describing why he had chosen to take up the life of a warrior. It is a question many in service are asked as many who have not served wonder why anyone would choose the life of a Soldier, Marine, Sailor or Airman.

The Ranger Up website features a T-shirt that talks about wolves and sheep. Wolves are those who wish the sheep harm and the sheep are the citizens. The term sheep is not used derogatorily, as it stands to say that most people look to live peaceably and do not wish harm to others. Then there are Sheepdogs. While they looks like the wolf, no Sheepdog will ever harm a sheep. Their purpose is to protect and defend. Rangers are a special breed, just like the Sheepdogs. They live to protect the flock.

I am a student of Leadership, and came across the US Navy SEAL Ethos. While I was not a SEAL, I was able to know a few during my time in service. They are the pinnacle of what all warriors drive to achieve. Their Leadership and Ethos succinctly describes the reasons why we serve.

Enclosed is the SEAL Ethos. While only a few will be a SEAL, they serve as an example to all others in service. All can benefit from their "Leadership by Example".

From Navyseals.com -

SEAL ETHOS

United States Navy SEAL

In times of war or uncertainty there is a special breed of warrior ready to answer our Nation’s call. A common man with uncommon desire to succeed. Forged by adversity, he stands alongside America’s finest special operations forces to serve his country, the American people, and protect their way of life.I am that man.

My Trident is a symbol of honor and heritage. Bestowed upon me by the heroes that have gone before, it embodies the trust of those I have sworn to protect. By wearing the Trident I accept the responsibility of my chosen profession and way of life. It is a privilege that I must earn every day.

My loyalty to Country and Team is beyond reproach. I humbly serve as a guardian to my fellow Americans always ready to defend those who are unable to defend themselves. I do not advertise the nature of my work, nor seek recognition for my actions. I voluntarily accept the inherent hazards of my profession, placing the welfare and security of others before my own.

I serve with honor on and off the battlefield. The ability to control my emotions and my actions, regardless of circumstance, sets me apart from other men.Uncompromising integrity is my standard. My character and honor are steadfast. My word is my bond.

We expect to lead and be led. In the absence of orders I will take charge, lead my teammates and accomplish the mission. I lead by example in all situations.

I will never quit. I persevere and thrive on adversity. My Nation expects me to be physically harder and mentally stronger than my enemies. If knocked down, I will get back up, every time. I will draw on every remaining ounce of strength to protect my teammates and to accomplish our mission. I am never out of the fight.

We demand discipline. We expect innovation. The lives of my teammates and the success of our mission depend on me - my technical skill, tactical proficiency, and attention to detail. My training is never complete.

We train for war and fight to win. I stand ready to bring the full spectrum of combat power to bear in order to achieve my mission and the goals established by my country. The execution of my duties will be swift and violent when required yet guided by the very principles that I serve to defend.

Brave men have fought and died building the proud tradition and feared reputation that I am bound to uphold. In the worst of conditions, the legacy of my teammates steadies my resolve and silently guides my every deed. I will not fail.