Link announcement #8

CLASS OF 1959 REFLECTIONS

While at the Naval Academy, all are exposed to a variety of subjects. From a perspective of 50 years, it seems easier to recognize which things were helpful and which were important. In our day, we all took the same basic course; you benefit from a variety of majors. Nonetheless, the academic teachings fall mostly into the helpful category that one needs for a well rounded education. More important, however, are the learned principles of leadership and ethical values. Solutions to problems are built on experience, sound principles and strong values. Before experience becomes a factor, you will have to rely almost exclusively on principles and values to solve non-technical issues. And solutions to people problems are what leadership is all about.

A few concepts and documents exist that have been used by Class of 59 members throughout our military and civilian careers. Most of the information was something to which we were made aware of as midshipman, and probably disregarded or forgot following graduation. Some items and concepts that you might keep for reference and periodic review are:

a. The oath of office taken upon entering the Academy and at graduation. Those 70 words are the foundation that will create all your challenges and opportunities. They define what you are doing and why. The oath must become a part of you. To understand the oath and be faithful to it must be a fundamental guide in your decision making and actions. Sometime during your military career, when you prove to be a leader symbolic of the traditions of the Academy, you will be asked to administer a similar oath to someone who has requested you to serve as a re-enlisting officer. You should be able to lead that person in the recitation of that oath as an officer who clearly holds those words dear by reciting them from your heart while looking eye-to-eye.

b. A message to Garcia. Many Class of 59 members frequently cited the “message” during ceremonies, in military as well as civilian events, when advising subordinates of the merits of initiative and responsibility. No document embodies and exemplifies those two entities more than the actions described and credited to Lieutenant Rowan. The success of any and every operation is dependent on individuals who can “Carry a Message to Garcia.”

c. The “Code of a Naval Officer” by John Paul Jones. Each graduate of the Academy must be “a (person) of liberal education, refined manner, punctilious courtesy, and the nicest sense of personal honor.” Being reminded of that responsibility periodically will serve you well.

As an Academy graduate, you will be expected to be an authority on military history, customs, procedures, dress code and knowledgeable in every course ever taught at the school. You will be quizzed on activities at USNA during your midshipman days, but never forget that although the questions will undoubtedly focus on the mundane, the assumption will be that you learned the basic principles and core values well.

You can look forward to being welcomed by other graduates and all officers regardless of their commission source. You will be welcomed also and held to a high standard by the enlisted personnel. Learn from your Senior enlisted assistants and seek and take their advice seriously. They want you to succeed and will take great pride in your accomplishments. Know and take care of your people - your success will depend on their abilities and deeds.

And 50+ years hence, participate in the Link in the Chain program. Expose the Class of 2059 members to the camaraderie that exists between USNA classes and among fellow graduates; stress to them and show by your example the friendship that is unique among Naval Academy classmates. And please extend the warm regards and respects of the Class of 1959 to our 100 year anniversary class.

Good luck and smooth sailing. Now it is your time to “Rise and Shine” 09!