Navy Commanding officer Stood up for his Sailors

Theresa Carpenter Speakers
10/02/2023 12:37pm 4 minute read

The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges to individuals and organizations around the world. For the United States Navy, it meant confronting a novel and invisible enemy while maintaining operational readiness. In this special episode, we had the privilege of sitting down with Captain Brett Crozier, a retired US Navy officer who served as the commanding officer of the USS Theodore Roosevelt during the early stages of the pandemic. His story is one of dedication, resilience, and the unwavering commitment to the well-being of his crew. Join us as we delve into the experiences and lessons learned from a Navy leader who faced public scrutiny, made tough decisions, and ultimately emerged as a symbol of leadership under pressure.

Meet the Guest: Captain Brett Crozier

Captain Brett Crozier's journey in the United States Navy is a remarkable one. A graduate of the United States Naval Academy, he soared through the ranks, flying combat missions over Iraq before reaching the highest levels of operational command. However, it was during his command of the USS Theodore Roosevelt that he would become a household name.

In the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, as the virus spread rapidly among his 4,000 sailors aboard the aircraft carrier, Captain Crozier took a bold and unprecedented step. He penned a four-page letter, a desperate plea for help, and appealed for the safety of his crew. This letter would not only make headlines but also spark a national conversation about leadership, accountability, and the well-being of those who serve our country.

Despite the backlash and the ultimate decision to relieve him of command, Captain Crozier remained steadfast in his commitment to his crew. Now, he has distilled his experiences and the lessons learned from his 30-year career in the Navy into a book titled "Surf When You Can," where he shares unique stories of leadership, courage, and resilience.

Key Takeaways:

✅Captain Brett Crozier's Remarkable Career: Captain Crozier's career trajectory is a testament to his dedication and leadership skills. From graduating from the Naval Academy to flying combat missions over Iraq, he demonstrated an unwavering commitment to his country and his fellow sailors.

✅A Desperate Plea for Help: When faced with the rapid spread of COVID-19 on the USS Theodore Roosevelt, Captain Crozier did not hesitate to take action. His four-page letter to higher authorities was a heartfelt plea for the safety of his crew, putting their well-being above all else.

✅Resilience Amidst Adversity: Captain Crozier faced immense public scrutiny and the challenging decision to relieve him of command. Despite this, he remained dedicated to his crew and their well-being, showcasing resilience in the face of adversity.

✅"Surf When You Can": Captain Crozier's book, "Surf When You Can," offers readers a deeper insight into his experiences and the invaluable lessons learned throughout his career. It provides a unique perspective on leadership, decision-making, and the importance of putting people first.

Discussion Points:

Navigating Uncertainty: The conversation with Captain Crozier revolves around the experiences and challenges faced by a Navy commanding officer during the COVID-19 pandemic. This includes the uncertainties surrounding the virus and the need for leaders to make decisions in the midst of ambiguity.
Accountability and Public Scrutiny: Captain Crozier reflects on the public scrutiny he faced and the challenges of defending oneself as an outgoing commanding officer. His story sheds light on the complexities of leadership in the modern age.
The Right Reasons and Differing Opinions: The importance of making decisions for the right reasons and the presence of differing opinions within leadership circles are discussed in detail. Captain Crozier emphasizes the significance of prioritizing the opinions of those who matter most.
Resilience and Emotional Impact: Captain Crozier shares his personal experience of being relieved of command and the emotional impact it had on him. This highlights the human side of leadership and the resilience required to overcome setbacks.
Taking Care of Your People: Throughout the conversation, Captain Crozier expresses immense pride in his crew's ability to continue their mission and underscores the importance of taking care of one's people, especially during challenging times.