Currahee!
If you search the internet or read any books on the subject, you will likely find many answers. These answers will likely include catchy phrases about getting other people to do something, or having influence on others, etc.
As we begin our discussion about leadership, I encourage you to ask yourself the question...
What does "Leadership" look like?
We have all experienced many forms of leadership throughout our life and career. As we watch Episode 1, Currahee, pay close attention to the styles demonstrated by Dick Winters (played by Damian Lewis) and Herbert Sobel (played by Ross from Friends, AKA David Schwimmer).
Discussion questions to consider...
- How would you describe the leadership style of Sobel vs. Winters?
- What are the positive attributes or results from each of these styles?
- Which leader would you rather follow?
- What kind of leader do you want to be...and why?
Deeper Dive...
While performing exercises in the field, Sobel fails repeatedly in the technical application of leadership. Specifically, he gets his people lost and "killed" in multiple drills. His technical abilities, or lack thereof, results in the loss of confidence of his subordinates. This results in the NCOs' (sergeants) votes of no confidence, and ultimately the reassignment of Sobel.
- How important is it for a leader to technically competent?
- In what other areas must an effective leader be "competent?"
- Do you have to be the person "in charge" to be a leader?
- What did the NCOs risk by taking the action they did?
