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.

181 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 22, 2025

Reviews

[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.