40 years ago, a young man embarked on a journey, which has led him to this book. Within it, there is a collection of experiences that give examples of leadership at its most critical point. Rear Admiral Slavonic began his Navy career at the very bottom rank, a Seaman Recruit and by applying some of the same principles, you will read about in this book¿he retired as a Rear Admiral after a 34-year career. Along the way, he met many mentors and leaders¿all the epitome of what it means to be a leader. These individuals gave him a good ¿eye¿ for what leadership really means and how it was displayed under some of the most arduous conditions imaginable. In the pages of this book, you will find something that is critical to success in life¿a philosophy of leadership that you can take for your own. By reading each chapter, giving thought to what you¿ve read and applying it in action; the reader will gain a thorough understanding of what real leaders are made of and in the learning can become one too.This book shares details of the men and women who rose to the challenge¿in the reading, you can learn from them transferrable skills and qualities that will have just as much success in the business world as they have proven in the military.

Those who contributed to this book would rightly be on a ¿Who¿s Who¿ list of our nation¿s most highly honored and decorated military leaders; two-, three- and four-star Generals, Admirals, Captains and Colonels, war heroes and two Medal of Honor recipients¿they know what it takes to lead and to succeed.