A Comparative Analysis of the Military Leadership Styles of Ernest J. King and Chester W. Nimitz
Abstract
In a constantly changing world threatened by the likelihood of terrorist acts, the American people need military leaders who clearly demonstrate an understanding of American core values, and who are both competent and morally focused. To produce military leaders who meet these qualifications and who can successfully meet the future challenges America faces, it is important to develop these leaders early and help them understand how to create and refine a successful leadership style. The process of developing a leadership style is not easy; it requires a prodigious amount of determination, time, and planning on the part of the future leader. It also requires that military training institutions align their curricula to promote leadership and provide guidance and mentoring to potential leaders. This monograph presents examples of both successful and flawed military leadership styles. There are many cases of each in American history. World War II Admirals Ernest J. King and Chester W. Nimitz provide contrasting examples of naval leadership. The leadership style of Admiral Nimitz is closely aligned with the leadership styles of General George C. Marshall and General Dwight D. Eisenhower, both successful leaders during World War II. In contrast, Admiral King was a diametrically different leader, one who was cold, harsh, and morally bankrupt. Learning about the leadership style of Admiral Nimitz will provide future leaders with someone to emulate.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 2009
- Accession Number
- ADA505406
Entities
People
- James R. Hill
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College