Lee Ellis: Leading with Honor

Your Independence Day message comes from Retired Air Force Colonel Leon F. “Lee” Ellis who spent nearly six years as a prisoner of war in North Vietnam from November 7, 1967 until March 14, 1973. His book is entitled “Leading with Honor: Leadership Lessons from the Hanoi Hilton” and the gist of that book is in his editorial today in U-T San Diego;

At this point in history, the greatest threat to our country and our way of life is the breakdown of truth: people seem to value truth until it becomes inconvenient or embarrassing. Then, all too often, the ends justify the means and the truth is shaded, hidden, or completely ignored. There’s an epidemic of truth slippage in our culture today, and it’s steadily chipping away at our freedom more than we realize.

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So if truth is the cornerstone of freedom and we see it under assault at every turn, how can we preserve the foundation of our nation? I know from personal experience that to speak and live the truth requires a great deal of courage. When things get hard, when mistakes are made, when the road ahead is risky, it’s not easy to tell the truth when you’re concerned about your image or power. But that’s exactly when the test of our character comes. Likewise, when we encounter those who are afraid to walk the path of courage, we must have the courage to call them out and hold them accountable for telling the truth.

History also tells us that leadership always makes a difference. Who will lead us toward more truth by example and by shedding the light of day into the darkness of lies? Decide now whether you have the personal courage to stand for truth. Our freedom is at stake.

But you should read the whole thing. Thanks to Mary for the link.

Category: Real Soldiers