"Within formal organizations like the military, individuals in charge rely on two sources of authority to get the job done: granted statutory power and personal power, which is gained by earning trust. Good leaders use both ... Ulmer explores what makes a great commander. While he focuses on the military, the leadership lessons he shares work in war and peace, on land and at sea, and in small and large organizations. Ulmer defines leadership, shares his personal philosophy of leadership, reveals tips on measuring a leader's success, and outlines behaviors that can lead to success--as well as those that can lead to disaster. He also wades into the debate over whether leaders are born or made, explains why it's important to respect the authority and responsibility of subordinate leaders, and how to manage organizations and large staffs." -- Publisher.

Definitions, principles, and other generalities -- Professional values and command philosophy -- Critical leader behaviors -- Reinforcing and respecting the chain of command -- Organizational climates and trust -- Managing organizations and leading staffs -- Following, learning, teaching, and serving -- Charts -- Leadership assessment tools -- Potential Commander Assessment Process (PCAP)