Subscribe to Read
Sign up today to enjoy a complimentary trial and begin exploring the world of books! You have the freedom to cancel at your convenience.
Vectors: Heroes, Villains, and Heartbreak on the Bridge of the U.S. Navy
| Title | Vectors: Heroes, Villains, and Heartbreak on the Bridge of the U.S. Navy |
| Writer | |
| Date | 2024-10-11 00:30:53 |
| Type | |
| Link | Listen Read |
Desciption
Thomas Modly had an eclectic career in the military, academia, business, and government when he answered the call to service in 2017 and returned to the Navy where his career began. His experience, as chronicled in these pages, tells the story of Secretary Modly’s quest to advance the Department of the Navy’s preparedness for the challenges of this century. As Acting Secretary of the Navy he held fast to the mantra of “acting, not pretending,” and thus advocated aggressively for the Navy and Marine Corps’ future ― a future he believed would be defined by uncertainty and unpredictability. Every Friday he wrote a personal message to the entire Department regardless of rank. Those messages were called SECNAV Vectors. Each Vector was intended to clearly communicate his priorities and to establish a rapport with all levels of the organization. The subject of each Vector was inspired by real events that occurred in real time. As these events unfolded , the Secretary’s unyielding emphasis on being prepared for unpredictable events are proven to be prescient as the Navy found itself, unintentionally, in the center of COVID-19 crisis. Read more
Review
Vectors is a remarkable book that not only offers a deep dive into the heart of the U.S. Navy's challenges and triumphs but also serves as a testament to Modley's exemplary leadership and forward-thinking vision. As a work chronicling the tenure of a man who has worn many hats – from military officer to academic, from business leader to government official – this book stands out as a compelling narrative of dedication, innovation, and resilience.Modley's extensive experience across various fields brings a unique perspective to his role as Acting Secretary of the Navy. His leadership style, rooted in the philosophy of "acting, not pretending," shines throughout the book. He emerges not just as a leader but as a visionary who understands the intricacies of modern warfare and the importance of preparing the Navy and Marine Corps for an unpredictable and uncertain future.The book's structure around the SECNAV Vectors – weekly messages penned by Modley to the entire Department of the Navy – is ingenious. These communications, addressing various issues as they unfolded in real-time, offer a rare glimpse into the mind of a leader at the helm during tumultuous times. They are insightful, direct, and candid, reflecting Modley's commitment to transparency and open communication across all ranks.One of the most compelling aspects of "Vectors" is how it portrays real-world events and conflicts, especially how the Navy found itself at the center of the COVID-19 crisis. Modley's reflections on these challenges are not just narrations of events but are imbued with lessons on leadership, adaptability, and foresight. His emphasis on being prepared for the unpredictable is not only prescient but also inspirational.Modley's writing style is engaging and accessible, making complex naval and military concepts understandable to a broader audience. His ability to connect personal experiences with broader institutional challenges makes "Vectors" a compelling read not only for those interested in military affairs but for anyone seeking insight into effective leadership in times of crisis.In summary, "Vectors" by Thomas Modley is an essential read for understanding the intricacies of leading a massive and complex organization like the Department of the Navy. It's a book that combines personal anecdotes, professional insights, and a clear-eyed view of the future, all narrated with the clarity and conviction of a true leader. Modley's book is not just a recounting of events; it's a roadmap for leadership in an unpredictable world.
