Beyond Band of Brothers: The War Memoirs of Major Dick Winters

by Dick Winters

the military police arrested “Skinny” on a Saturday afternoon for making out with his girlfriend along the railroad tracks. When asked by Sobel to explain his conduct, Sisk replied, “The train was coming, she was coming, and so was I.”

An officer should never put himself in a position where he takes anything from the men. Never abuse them by act or omission. As a commander, a leader must be prepared to give everything, including himself, to the people he leads. You give your time and you strive to be consistently fair, never demonstrating favoritism.

The key to a successful combat leader is to earn respect, not because of rank, but because you are a man.

First and foremost, a leader should strive to be an individual of flawless character, technical competence, and moral courage.

There is no need to tell someone how to do his job if you have properly trained your team.

Good preparation is always vital to the success of any operation, but leaders must remain flexible once the action commences.

Leaders should assume blame when the operation fails; when it succeeds, credit the men and women in your team. They do the lion’s share of the work.

“Humility must always be the portion of any man who receives acclaim earned in the blood of his followers and the sacrifices of his friends.”

Lastly, “Hang Tough!” Never, ever, give up regardless of the adversity. If you are a leader, a fellow who other fellows look to, you have got to keep going.

The key to successful leadership is to earn respect—not because of rank or position, but because you are a leader of character.