Lessons in Leadership...AND Followership

Early in my military career, I quickly realized that both leadership AND followership are crucial for high-performing teams. In 1997, while stationed at the 16th Operational Support Squadron at Hurlburt Field, Florida, I supported Air Force special operations with full-spectrum communications.

Late one Friday afternoon, just as I was preparing for a weekend off, our unit was alerted to provide tactical communications for an AC-130 Gunship mission. I didn’t fully grasp the mission’s importance at the time and was frustrated that it interrupted my plans. My frustration grew when I saw MSgt Thompson, our leader, leave while we were busy unloading and ops checking equipment.

I thought to myself, “Where is our leader going? I guess since he’s in charge, he can have us do all the work while he gets to leave and go home.”

But when he returned, I was shocked. He came back carrying pizza boxes and a cooler—he hadn’t gone home; he had gone to get food for the team. He set the food down, gathered us, and explained the mission’s importance, our contributions to the mission, and stressed the need for thoroughness to ensure our equipment and deploying personnel were ready to go. Then he encouraged us to take a break and eat.

As I watched him roll up his sleeves and help unload equipment, I was filled with shame over my actions and negative assumptions. MSgt Thompson demonstrated true leadership, and in that moment, I realized the value of followership and being a good team player.

I’ve carried these lessons with me to this day:

1. Assume Noble Intent – We often judge too quickly without understanding the full context. To build trust, it’s important to assume positive intentions and avoid jumping to conclusions.

2. Know Your Purpose – Every team member plays a vital role. Knowing our purpose, understanding our objectives, and understanding our role within the larger mission motivates us and allows us to work effectively together.

3. Followership is as Important as Leadership – Though often overlooked, followership is the foundation of teamwork and organizational success. It’s not about being passive, but actively contributing, taking initiative, and supporting leadership to achieve shared goals.

MSgt Thompson was integral to my growth, and I will never forget the lessons he taught me. He showed me the importance of Assuming Noble Intent, Knowing My Purpose, and, perhaps most importantly, the vital role of Followership and Being a Good Team Player in achieving success.

Thank you, MSgt Arthur “Art” Thompson for the enduring lessons, lasting impact and for showing us what right looks like. I’ve done my best to follow your example.

Lead On.

Follow On.

Game On.