Summary Of Tanya Biank's Undaunted

830 Words2 Pages

“I know what I said. Now, tell me what you heard.” BG Angela Salinas stated to ensure clarity and accuracy. Creative thinking is often applied by leaders in the military today. Tanya Biank explored 4 distinct leaders across the military branches of service from the ranks of Sergeant to Brigadier General in her book Undaunted. Providing an analysis of the leadership principles and concepts illustrated in this book seemed ideal as I was gifted this book by my mentor, General (Retired) Carter F. Ham. I was able to witness this amazing leader personally illustrate the following principles; creative thinking, critical thinking, power and influence, and building teams. The ability to lead an all-male institution at the Marine Corp Recruiting Depot
The scenarios described made me reflect on all of my personal experiences. Once a member of a dual-military couple with over-lapping deployments the ability to balance life and work required critical thinking of the third and fourth order effects. Communication is heard differently when it is passed over 5,000 miles and the various elements must be considered. Additionally, the description of SGT Amy Stokely reaction to the IED detonation in front of her clearly illustrated all of the elements of critical thinking - Clarity, Accuracy, Precision, Relevance, Depth, Breadth, Logic, Significance, Fairness, etc. A leader must be able to reach to instinct and training in stressful situations and apply initiative to ensure safety and mission accomplish. Ultimately, all of the elements to critical thinking make for a well-rounded leader that can motivate subordinates and give clear mission
Biank illustrates the difference in leadership and the integration of power and influence. From Sgt Stokely’s drill instructor’s use of power of her position to enforce compliance to Lt Bergan Flannigan’s personal power to have her platoon continue to fight through dedication and allegiance to her organization following her injury. Both methods of power and influence were extremely effective in their individual scenarios. Through reflection, I believe that I have always applied the personal power to change the thinking of my subordinates to complete missions. This would stem back to my very first NCO and the way head led the communications

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