Get Back Up: Lessons In Servant Leadership

by Heather Wilson, Dave Goldfein

What makes a true servant leader? In this inspiring book, Air Force Academy classmates Heather Wilson and David Goldfein share four decades of lessons from the marble halls of the Capitol to the sands of the Middle East with humor and humility. Dave, a four-star general and former Chief of Staff of the US Air Force, recounts being shot down in his F-16 over Serbia and other gripping stories. Heather, a former Congresswoman, university president, and Secretary of the Air Force, reveals the tough calls that shaped her leadership. Reunited at the Pentagon 35 years after their cadet days, they weave unforgettable stories into practical lessons for anyone striving to lead with character and serve with purpose.

Genres: Leadership

181 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 22, 2025

Reviews

[Ali Al-Dahwi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a graduate of UTEP Civil Engineering class of 1978. I picked this book as I am interested to read a book by the president of my UNIVERSITY. I am impressed with what she is doing to ensure UTEP is on the academic map and will continue to get the respect it deserves. I was very impressed by the lessons and key points addressed in this book. I read it carefully and thoroughly. As a retired former CEO, this book should (in my opinion) be read by managers of all walks of life. It should be read by those starting their careers to provide them with great real examples of how to go through life with all its ups and downs. Great book, great Job, well written. Good for UTEP to have a President Dr. Heather Wilson. Go Miners!

[Gordon McCulloh · Rating 3 out of 5]

'Get Back Up' is a classic medley of Air Force-coded aphorisms that guide leadership and management. As an Air Force Academy graduate, the book is highly reminiscent of the character and leadership symposia cadets are required to attend each year. I found Sec Wilson and Gen Goldfein's stories to be impactful, but I also wonder what leaders of scale would think of the book. What would Churchill think of this brand of servant leadership and the dilution of the modern military education?

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

In a way, it’s too simple.
It’s not a book from a top consulting firm. Concepts aren’t hard to grasp when explained by two outstanding leaders.
Concepts to master and live by to be a great leader are simple. This book explains in simple stories what every leader who means to have an impact should live by.
A big thanks to the authors for their service and for taking the time to write this book.

[Yuki H · Rating 4 out of 5]

I picked up this book, after it was recommended by some The New York Times podcast.

As for a literature, it is blunt, straightforward, clear and "get to the point" writing. Many episodes described in this book assured me that we have the world best military of good people who are accountable to each other and have each other's backs in the ultimate circumstances. A military force of such quality needs to be led by a good leader of the country, otherwise, it is a waste.

[Deanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read on leadership!

Inspiring and insightful read from two of the best I have been privileged to serve for and with. Many meaningful leadership takeaways and stories in this book. A must read!

[JP · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Leadership read. Good real world stories showing how great leaders think and act. And how leadership makes all the difference in any organization

[Scott Walker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nice and short, I like the way it is written and presented, and I like many of the takeaways. the story on Goldfein being rescued was very interesting, especially relating it back to his family

[REGINA PANTING · Rating 5 out of 5]

The stories are heart felt and relatable. Everyone in a leadership role should read this! Especially leaders in political offices!!

I read it and listened to the audio book. It will be a main staple for my Airmen.

[Jodi Tooke · Rating 4 out of 5]

Solid leadership recommendations backed by anecdotes that help readers understand the lesson.

[Eric · Rating 5 out of 5]

I heard the authors interviewed on Revisionist History and immediately bought the book. Great stories and examples of leadership throughout - strong recommendation.

[Alex Feigin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Too many words and fluff around some interesting lessons and stories