Disruptive by Design: Leadership and Followership Then and Now
It is not unusual to reflect on the past and compare it to the modern day. Fashion, finance, family and fun vary from decade to decade. Not long ago, I came across another consideration to compare: Are today’s levels of inculcated individual and cultural “leadership” and “followership” the same as they were in the 1940s?
From my perspective, the same level of leadership and followership skills are not taught in our culture today compared to the 1940s. The United States is arguably more diverse than in the 1940s, and most have a diluted comprehension of that era. Further, the degree of world conflict, necessary discipline and family dynamics have substantially shifted in a macro and micro economic form, respectively. As examples, consider the present attitudes toward corporal punishment, the war in the Middle East or family dynamics. Thus, as much as inclusion, diversity, equality and accessibility (also known as IDEA) are wonderful and advantageous for modern times, efforts to meet each emphasis area are neither perfect nor absolute solutions.
We can draw many lessons for individuals and organizations from the “Old 666” example. For those who are unfamiliar, Old 666 was a Boeing B-17E Flying Fortress heavy bomber, serial number 41-2666, assigned to the U.S. Army Air Forces 19th and 43rd Bombardment Groups in 1942–1943. Noteworthy remarks from the crew mentioned suicide mission, poor flight mission luck and a more rebellious and daring crew fighting against the odds. Using Old 666 and the crew as an example, lessons learned include the capacity of self-sacrifice for a greater purpose, voluntary action and dedication. The individuals forming the crew and support for flight missions could not have completed the mission independently, but as a combined unit, the devoted draftees and volunteers could defend the team and serve a purpose far greater than themselves. I have a theory that most of our 21st Century servicemen and women would not voluntarily serve and risk their lives if it were not for greater purpose, loyal teammates and national support. Hence, individuals in leadership positions of organizations must heed similar lessons stemming from the power of positive recognition, volunteer value and deadly devotion.
Whether you agree or disagree with my brief thoughts on levels of leadership and followership today versus the 1940s, I encourage you to look into Old 666’s history and ponder lessons learned from this amazing example in our collective American history. I also implore you to ask yourself how you think the United States is doing in terms of leadership, followership, IDEA and the direction we should be going.
Jennifer Miller is a business operations manager for the Defense Health Agency. She is a certified project management professional, certified government financial manager, certified defense financial manager with acquisition specialty and a member of the American Society of Military Comptroller’s Washington Chapter.
Disclaimer: Opinions, conclusions and recommendations expressed or implied within are solely those of the author. They do not necessarily represent the views of the U.S. Defense Department or any other U.S. government agency.
