Because I was in such good shape, my fatigue level never reached the point of physical exhaustion that contributes to mental exhaustion and, ultimately, to combat fatigue.
We all experienced sleep deprivation at times – hat is the nature of stress but a physically exhausted leader routinely makes poor decisions in times of crisis.
The intensity of a fire, or a heavy concentration, to be a leader, you have to be able to concentrate on that fire and move just as soon as it stops or the last round hits.
True satisfaction comes from getting the job done. Ribbons, medals, and accolades, then, are poor substitutes to the ability to look yourself in the mirror every night and know that you did your best.
That’s what officers must do – break the cycle of fear. If a soldier is concentrating on his own feelings and on his own fear, and he sees you moving around, he realizes that you’re sharing the burden with him. That’s why he can then move.
War exposes the best and worst of those who are called to fight. I know of no man who lacked character in peace and then discovered his character in combat.
