Hornblower Group’s Post

In 1938, Winston Churchill became admiral of the world's strongest navy. WWII was about to start, so he instituted a strict rule: Daily naps. 💤 This man was going to lead the Royal Navy against the Nazis and he insisted on taking a 1 hour nap every afternoon. His rationale? Periods of war demand the most from leaders and the intensity lasts for an unknown length of time. In that circumstance, an afternoon nap is the best way to get the most out of the human form. During the war, Churchill would routinely stay up until 1 or 2 am (or later) managing a crisis. He’d sleep soundly until 8 or 9 am, and then take his afternoon nap. This allowed him to work long hours with incredible focus and tenacity. The effectiveness of this strategy on Churchill’s performance inspired his 2nd in command, Admiral Pound, to institute a similar afternoon nap policy. Most founders and CEOs face similar periods of intensity where crises happen at all hours, demanding attention and rapid responses. A nap is not for everyone, but it’s a logical approach if you’re in a role that includes sustained intensity over many years and where long hours combined with health and fitness are key ingredients to success. Do you nap?

Hello LinkedIn Friends, Our veterans are waiting to be remembered, and David Russell, our 4everstory ambassador, is here to ensure we do just that. (Veterans Day video below) In a remarkable series of twenty short few minutes videos, David, a 104-year-old WWII Navy Veteran, shares a captivating stories and moments that would have otherwise been lost to time forever, recounts his extensive journey from a farm in Nebraska to the high seas and beyond. His vivid stories from the USS Oklahoma in Pearl Harbor to the USS Mahan in Singapore, he defied December 7th twice, and serene days in Oregon, revive a past that was at risked being forgotten between two dates and dash. Why share this just now? A poignant encounter three weeks ago between our Director of Sales, John Jackson (a former Petty Officer 2nd Class in the US Navy), and David sparked this initiative. Their conversation, meant to be a simple inquiry about David’s naval experiences, turned into a powerful moment of recognition and remembrance beyond what we could have ever imaged. This interaction, along with similar stories shared by over a hundred veterans we've spoken to, highlighted a common thread: all they ask is to be remembered. As Veterans Day approached, we realized that mere few videos and shares isn't enough. We needed to immortalize these histories. Thus, we crafted a series of digital tributes with photos, videos, words, audios, timelines and much more, to honor David through 4everstory, where lifetimes are preserved and treasured memories live on forever. This is more than a project called Our Veterans are waiting to be remembered; it's our mission. Tomorrow, I'll share more about this, how to join us in creating 5,000 Veterans 4everstory’s by year's end, creating much needed supports, donations to supporter of veterans and a heartfelt connect that’s a world first interaction turning point for all! Yes, it's all a daunting task for sure, but as our veterans have shown us, no mission is too impossible to become possible. This mission like all missions, requires collaboration, networking, partnerships, sharing, and more. Why this urgency? great question: Did you know that this Veterans Day will be the last for over 400,000 veterans? Without our actions, their stories, and their legacies, are at risk of being lost or forgotten forever. If you feel the call to support or participate in preserving these invaluable stories, please reach out or just share this with other that could help our mission. Thank you, John. 

Happy Veterans Day to all my fellow Vets. It's a point of personal pride to be the fourth generation of my family to have served in the U.S. armed forces. Per a Nov. '23 Pew report, only 6% of current American adults are veterans compared to 18% in 1980, and that number is shrinking. Among our national leadership, veterans only make up 18% of Congress, compared to a high of 75% in the early 70s, and it's been 15 years and counting for America's Commander-in-Chief. I'll leave it to the smarter folks to prognosticate what the impact has been & will be on American society & culture, but I can weigh in on some of the life lessons learned from my own experience. *Leaders Eat Last - A cultural norm in the military, you literally don't eat until you've made sure your troops have been fed first. *Personal Sacrifice - Sometimes the accomplishment of the mission is at odds with what's best for the individual and sometimes you have to take one for the team. It's OK to gripe about it, but once the decision is made, get on board and work as a unit toward the common goal. *Suck it up and Drive On - Hollywood loves to glamorize the physical aspects of military life, but it's mental toughness that matters most. Crawling out of a warm sleeping bag at 3 am, exhausted, hungry, and wet to stand guard in the snow doesn't require a 200+ bench press. But it does require grit and perseverance. *What binds us outweigh our differences. Good people come in lots of colors, from very different communities, cultural backgrounds, and experiences.

Our veterans are waiting to be remembered part 16 `In Australia`, David Russell, our 4everstory ambassador, is here to ensure we do just that. In a remarkable series of twenty short few minutes videos, David, a 104-year-old WWII Navy Veteran, shares a captivating stories and moments that would have otherwise been lost to time forever, recounts his extensive journey from a farm in Nebraska to the high seas and beyond. His vivid stories from the USS Oklahoma in Pearl Harbor to the USS Mahan in Singapore, he defied December 7th twice, and serene days in Oregon, revive a past that was at risked being forgotten between two dates and dash. Why share this just now? A poignant encounter three weeks ago between our Director of Sales, John Jackson (a former Petty Officer 2nd Class in the US Navy), and David sparked this initiative. Their conversation, meant to be a simple inquiry about David’s naval experiences, turned into a powerful moment of recognition and remembrance beyond what we could have ever imaged. This interaction, along with similar stories shared by over a hundred veterans we've spoken to, highlighted a common thread: all they ask is to be remembered. As Veterans Day approached, we realized that mere few videos and shares isn't enough. We needed to immortalize these histories. Thus, we crafted a series of digital tributes with photos, videos, words, audios, timelines and much more, to honor David through 4everstory, where lifetimes are preserved and treasured memories live on forever. This is more than a project called Our Veterans are waiting to be remembered; it's our mission. Tomorrow, I'll share more about this, how to join us in creating 5,000 Veterans 4everstory’s by year's end, creating much needed supports, donations to supporter of veterans and a heartfelt connect that’s a world first interaction turning point for all! Yes, it's all a daunting task for sure, but as our veterans have shown us, no mission is too impossible to become possible. This mission like all missions, requires collaboration, networking, partnerships, sharing, and more. Why this urgency? great question: Did you know that this Veterans Day will be the last for over 400,000 veterans, THAT'S 400,000 American Heroes? Without our actions, their stories, and their legacies, are at risk of being lost or forgotten forever. If you feel the call to support or participate in preserving these invaluable stories, please reach out or just share this with other that could help our mission. Thank you, John.

Pause your scrolling and enjoy some extremely valuable insight from a couple of extremely intelligent and successful individuals, whom I greatly respect. Thank you, Christian, for the perspective check I think we could all benefit from! #leadership #management #goals #leadingbyexample #livingbyexample

Thank you, Divergent and Czinger Vehicles veterans, for your service. Yesterday, November 10th, was the birthay of the United States Marine Corps. It reminded me of my service as an enlisted infantry rifleman in the Marine Corps Reserves. I will never forget my Senior Drill Instructor, (then) Staff Sergeant Robert Romero, at Parris Island. The lessons I learned there left an indelible mark on the rest of my life. The 11 USMC leadership principles include: 1.Know yourself and seek self-improvement. 2.Be technically and tactically proficient. 3.Know your people and look out for their welfare. 4.Keep your personnel informed. 5.Set the example. 6.Ensure the task is understood, supervised, and accomplished. 7.Train your Marines (and Sailors) as a team. 8.Make sound and timely decisions. 9.Develop a sense of responsibility among your subordinates. 10.Employ your command within its capabilities. 11.Seek responsibilities and take responsibility. Marines exist by a set of enduring core values and standards that create the bedrock of personal character. Semper Fi

Today, I witnessed a significant moment as my son took part in the pre graduation "Turning Green" Ceremony at Ft. Moore marking the end of basic training and the first step in a significant journey. Aidan's dedication to applying for the U.S. Army "Street to Seat" warrant officer aviation program has led to a remarkable achievement. After a nearly year and a half long process his selection, along with 18 peers to become U.S. Army Aviators, is truly awesome. Reflecting on this experience, I am reminded of the qualities that propelled him forward: - Focus - Determination - Drive These attributes are essential for progress towards our aspirations. Remember: 1. Focus on your goal and devise a plan 2. Determine your capabilities 3. Drive yourself forward during challenges Consistent application of these principles paves the way to realizing your ambitions. Aidan's journey is a testament to this. Perhaps these principles can guide you towards your goals too!

"Ranger smash!" I heard this often in the 75th Ranger Regiment, U.S. Army, an elite #Infantry unit that values strength and aggression. After all, the main point of the organization is to break things and people. Sometimes that strength and aggression results in things being broken that shouldn't be. That was considered acceptable, and even laudable. "Ranger smash" alludes to the Incredible Hulk and refers to the tendency of Rangers to apply their strength and aggression enthusiastically, breaking things that may or may not need to be broken. Most civilian jobs don't value Rangers' destructive tendencies quite the same way, but sometimes breaking things can be good for your organization. Most companies have policies, procedures, and even strategies that could use an enthusiastic application of "Ranger smash." You might not be a #Ranger, but don't be afraid to follow Rangers' example in moving fast and breaking things. #hirearanger

Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage. We often hear inspiring stories like that of AF Tech Sgt. John Chapman, whose heroic actions serve as a testament to the qualities inherent in veterans. I had the privilege of working alongside a veteran from the 10th Mountain Division, whose bravery earned him a medal. Reflecting on his experiences, he vividly recalls the perilous situations they faced and the morale-boosting sight of US air support overhead. Stories like these underscore the invaluable contribution veterans can make to your organization. In times of adversity, veterans demonstrate unwavering dedication and selflessness. John Chapman's actions weren't driven by personal gain or recognition but by a profound sense of duty to his comrades. Imagine having someone of such caliber within your organization—someone who prioritizes loyalty and teamwork, fostering a culture of trust and collaboration. The qualities exhibited on the battlefield seamlessly transition to the workplace. Veterans bring a unique blend of leadership, resilience, and adaptability—qualities essential for navigating today's economic landscape. Hiring a veteran isn't just about fulfilling a need; it's about tapping into a wealth of skills and experiences that can drive your organization's success. As we honor the sacrifices of John Chapman, let's also acknowledge the family he left behind. Their unwavering support and sacrifices deserve recognition too.

What a great picture to capture the heart of a courageous warrior. I'm struck by John Chapman's subtle smile and peaceful resolve. This picture reminds me that we in the military can often mistake being tough with being hard. Hardness is easy. It's cold, impersonal, invulnerable and results in disconnectedness. We're tempted to justify hardness when the mission or task is difficult, or when we may or may not necessarily agree with the desired outcome. Put on the blinders, separate the heart from the action, do the task, live for another day. Toughness is connection based (both connected to self and/or a team) and requires selflessness and discipline. Tough, courageous warriors have tenacity, grit, determination, professionalism and most importantly: HUMILITY. I've known plenty of tough people with gentle hearts. Toughness leaves room for the heart to stay connected to your hands and mind. TSgt John Chapman's tenacity, grit and professionalism were on display at the top of Takur Ghar, but his humility, heart and selfless desire to serve brought him to the top of that mountain. I'm not sure you can capture the heart of a tough and selfless warrior any better than this photo of him humbly and gently holding an Afghan baby.