Today we honor those men and women who have served in our armed forces to preserve our values and way of life. On this date we also thank the families who support them and make it possible for them to fulfill one of the greatest duties of any individual: service to their country. For me it is also a time reflect on the meaning of honor in our lives.
When I think of veterans and honor two people quickly come to mind, John McCain and Lee Ellis. John McCain needs no introduction. The former United States Senator and prisoner of war (POW) is an American icon and hero. Lee Ellis is a former Air Force pilot and POW who was held captive along with John McCain.
Lee is a good friend and someone I also consider an American hero. I have Lee’s book Leading with Honor on my desk as a reminder of what it means to lead your life with honor. The foreword to Lee’s first book was written by John McCain and I want to share a quote from that foreword that puts this in perspective.
Leading with honor is about putting service to others ahead of self-interests. It means keeping your word and your commitments. It means serving sacrificially in a way that upholds the values that historically have made our nation great, our people proud, and our families strong.
John McCain
I was humbled when Lee asked me to write the foreword for his second book Engage with Honor. In this second work Lee uses his extraordinary experiences to help leaders in all walks of life develop their own leadership models. I share a passion with Lee for doing business in an honorable way and for developing leaders who will embody the character and the values that will help lead their organizations with the highest of integrity.
So as we celebrate Veteran’s Day remember to thank our men and women in the military for their service. Also, reflect on what it means to you personally to lead and engage with honor.
In today’s fast paced environment leaders are challenged to make difficult choices, often in uncharted territory. The best way to navigate in turbulent times is with a leadership compass based on honor and integrity.
