"And that, quite frankly, was how we did things in the old Army. Back then it was all about action, not words. We did whaever it took to successfully complete the task, even if it meant putting our stripes on the line and bending a few rules. Today's N.C.O.s wouldn't dare make a move if it meant deviating from Army doctrine or established regulations. They are not risk takers. Personally, I see that as a serious problem. But if you doubt what I'm saying, just do a quick recap of America's most decisive battles by some of her most notable leaders. For instance, consider the actions taken during the crossing of the Delaware by General George Washington in the Revolutionary War. Or those taken by General Andrew Jackson at the Battle of New Orleans during the War of 1812. Or those taken by Colonel Joshua Chamberlain at the Battle of Little Round Top during the Civil War. Or by General Douglas MacArthur at the Battle of Inchon during the Korean Conflict. The point I'm trying to illustrate here is that it takes more than a course on leadership to be an effective leader. And it's not enough to be able to memorize and recite the N.C.O. creed to be a good leader. The best leaders are men of action with plenty of common sense and ingenuity. Being able to recite creeds or quote leadership manuals proves nothing. The mark of a real leader is the doing, not the talking."