Courage is essential for a soldier, encompassing both physical and moral aspects. Physical courage involves overcoming fear in the face of danger, while moral courage involves standing up for one’s beliefs even in the face of opposition. A military leader must have the courage to make difficult decisions in risky situations in order to succeed. Without courage, a leader will not earn the respect of their men.
A prominent and benevolent personality is also crucial for a military leader. It is important to be not only prominent but also kind-hearted and honest. Good leaders prioritize others over themselves, display humility, and are unshaken by challenges. Indonesian forefathers have outlined eight qualities of a good leader, known as hasta brata, which emphasize traits such as being broad-minded, a guiding light, and providing warmth and support to their followers.
Loyalty to the country, nation, and people is another important characteristic of a military leader. A loyal leader is committed to their organization, dedicated to their comrades, and puts the interests of their men above their own. Professional skills are also necessary for a leader to succeed, as they must have a deep understanding of their field and be proficient in tactics and techniques.
Passion is the driving force behind a successful military leader, motivating them to overcome challenges and achieve victory. The spirit of a leader and their followers is what ultimately determines success in war. Presence at critical moments, forward-thinking, creativity, and a sense of responsibility are also key components of effective leadership.
In conclusion, successful military leadership requires a combination of courage, a prominent personality, loyalty, professional skills, passion, and other key traits. By embodying these qualities, a military leader can successfully navigate challenges, inspire their followers, and achieve victory in difficult situations.
