Beyond Band of Brothers: The War Memoirs of Major Dick Winters

Beyond Band of Brothers: The War Memoirs of Major Dick Winters by Dick Winters

My rating: 1 of 5 stars


My husband and I listened to this book on a road trip. Well, he listened to it. I slept a lot and actually read another book during part of it, so can I count it as a book that I have read? Heck yes! It was painful. I am counting it!
I really have no interest in war books, and this one was particularly dry.
Though, I’m sure an excellent leader, Major Winters was not a writer. His many claims to his own humility were overpowered by his boastings.

Though I didn’t find the book very enjoyable,
I am deeply grateful for Major Winters service and sacrifice, along with all of the others that sacrificed so much so that I can have what I have today.
The book ended with Major Winter’s Leadership tips (he was asked often to speak at conventions and meetings about leadership). I thought they were really good:

“Leadership At The Point Of a Bayonet“
1. Strive to be a leader of character, competence, and courage.
2. Lead from the front. Say, “Follow me!” and then lead the way.
3. Stay in top physical shape–physical stamina is the root of mental toughness.
4. Develop your team. If you know your people, are fair in setting realistic goals and expectations, and lead by example, you will develop teamwork.
5. Delegate responsibility to your subordinates and let them do their job. You can’t do a good job if you don’t have a chance to use your imagination and creativity.
6. Anticipate problems and prepare to overcome obstacles. Don’t wait until you get to the top of the ridge and then make up your mind.
7. Remain humble. Don’t worry about who receives the credit. Never let power or authority go to your head.
8. Take a moment of self-reflection. Look at yourself in the mirror every night and ask yourself if you did your best.
9. True satisfaction comes from getting the job done. They key to a successful leader is to earn respect–not because of rank or position, but because you are a leader of character.
10. Hang Tough!–Never, ever, give up.




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