Patton on Leadership

Why should we remember General George S. Patton today? What can we learn from him? Unlike George Washington or Abraham Lincoln who seem to occupy a realm beyond that of mere mortals, Patton had great strengths and accomplished remarkable results while at the same time, he had to work to overcome h [...]
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Why should we remember General George S. Patton today? What can we learn from him? Unlike George Washington or Abraham Lincoln who seem to occupy a realm beyond that of mere mortals, Patton had great strengths and accomplished remarkable results while at the same time, he had to work to overcome his human imperfections, making him much more approachable as an exemplar. His mantra, "Speed, simplicity and boldness," worked not only in the harsh environment of World War II but it is also an appropriate motto for the Internet Age. In both situations the risks are high, the workplace conditions difficult and the unknown is great. Anyone who directs a company or supervises others could benefit by being able to "think like Patton." So says author Alan Axelrod.



When he arrived to take command of the Third Army, Patton found utterly defeated troops. He transformed this demoralized force into an army capable of crushing the Nazis' dreaded "Desert Fox," General Erwin Rommel. He drove the Third Army--437,860 men at its pinnacle--across France and into Germany at a breakneck pace. Under Patton's command, the Third Army destroyed more of the enemy and liberated more towns than any other unit in the entire history of U.S. warfare, with the least cost in lives and resources. At every step in his triumphant career, Patton set an inspiring example, instilled confidence and acted decisively. He excelled under relentless pressure and against daunting odds- and throughout it all he had to work hard to overcome a personal enemy, dyslexia.



Based on the General's own writings, remarks, and career record, author Alan Axelrod, who specializes in both military history and management topics, presents 185 succinct lessons in leadership, Patton-style.



This fascinating guide to business victory and personal excellence features a Foreword by William A. Cohen, Ph.D., Major General, USAFR, Retired; and a Preface by George Steinbrenner, principal owner of the New York Yankees. It will be available nationwide on Veteran's Day--which happens to be Patton's birthday. A percentage of the net proceeds from this book and from the audiobook will be donated to build the National World War II Memorial.



"In the Third Army, we knew what General Patton expected us to do, and we believed that if we did it, we would win. That's what generalship is about."
From General Omar N. Bradley, A Soldier's Story