Character Carved in Stone: The 12 Core Virtues of West Point That Build Leaders and Produce Success

by Pat Williams, Jim Denney, Mike Krzyzewski (Foreword)

Overlooking the Hudson River on the campus of the United States Military Academy at West Point are 12 granite benches, each inscribed with a word representing a key leadership compassion, courage, dedication, determination, dignity, discipline, integrity, loyalty, perseverance, responsibility, service, and trust. These benches remind cadets of the qualities that lead to victory and success, not just on the battlefield, but in all of life.

With his signature enthusiasm and insight, Pat Williams shares the incredible stories of West Point graduates who exemplified these traits, from the Civil War to the War on Terror. He shows readers of all backgrounds how to develop these 12 essential virtues in their lives, whether they are in the corporate world, the academic world, the military, the church, or in some other sphere.

Genres: Leadership, Nonfiction, History, Personal Development, Self Help, Business, Personal Growth

224 pages, Paperback

Published March 16, 2021

About the author

Patrick Livingston Murphy Williams was an American sports executive, who served as senior vice president of the Orlando Magic. Williams began his career as a minor league baseball player, and later joined the front office of his team. In the late 1960s he moved into basketball, with his biggest achievements being the 1983 title of the Philadelphia 76'ers and being a partner in the creation of the Orlando Magic.

Reviews

[Randell Carlton Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pat does a great series on leadership and this book uses the background of West Point to discuss how to lead. In some ways a history of the academy, each chapter describes a different leader. Nice read for anyone in leadership! 🇺🇸📚🇺🇸

[Noula · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a captivating read and one that I could not put down. The book goes over the 12 Characters that individuals must have and learn to apply to their lives. Each chapter really hit close to home with true stories and detailed explanations of developing character. I may not be a West Point graduate but the teachings from the academy will help any American civilian wanting to serve their country proudly. I recommend this book to learn the 12 virtues of character and how you can be a leader too.

[Martin Wickens · Rating 5 out of 5]

Growing up I had the privilege of going to a small Christian school that used the ACE curriculum. Every PACE highlighted a character trait. My pastor also highlighted the importance, from a Biblical perspective, of good character. With that background, I was excited to read Pat William's book, Character Carved in Stone.

The book expounds on and illustrates the 12 character traits found on twelve granite benches that overlook the Hudson River on the Campus of West Point.

He explains each trait well and the stories of primarily military men and women give great examples to aspire to.

This will be a book I recommend often, especially to anyone in any position of leadership or influence.

[Caison Britt · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read manual for the individual striving for greater character in their life. This book will bring you through the 12 main character traits instilled in those who seek to graduate from the esteemed West Point military academy. Along the way, the book illustrates the traits by underscoring a West Point graduate’s fantastic attainment of each. At the end of every chapter, the author gives a highly practical charge for the application of the character trait.

[Eva-Joy · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I started reading this book I was afraid that it would be a dry, slow, boring read. That couldn't have been further from the truth. Even though I'm not an American, I've always been fascinated by American history and felt a certain kinship to Americans (my mother is one, so yes). Character Carved in Stone contains story after story of brave, true Americans who risked everything to give others freedom - and it made me want to cheer.

From famous generals like Omar Bradley to little known heroes like Michael Collins (the third man on the Apollo 11 mission), Pat Williams unpacks the virtues that make West Point what it is through engaging, informative true-life stories. My only complaint was that the chapters tended to end on a "you can do all the things" guru-style note that was tiring (and not half as inspiring as the stories).

Character Carved in Stone is a great book nonetheless and one that I'd recommend for fans of history and heroes.

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Mark McElreath · Rating 3 out of 5]

Twelve core values are carved in marble on 12 benches at West Point. These values are each given their own chapter and an account of a West Point alumnus who characterized them. The stories are worth the read though the prose is stale. I enjoyed its introduction, for me, to Omar Bradley, "Black Jack" Pershing, Matthew Ridgeway and Norman Schwarzkopf.

[Gretchie · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5 These stories and examples of the values of compassion, courage, dedication, determination, dignity, discipline, integrity, loyalty, perseverance, responsibility, service, and trust remind me the type of person and leader I want to exemplify. It reminds why I put myself through difficult situations to be the best version of myself for the people around me.

The last few chapters definitely lost focus, making it feel like the author was just trying to finish the book. It is also definitely a very West Point book. Overall a great read though.

[Jeff Edwards · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an amazing read on what true leadership must look like, no matter the group, organization or realm. These virtues need to be recaptured and held on to by those men and women who wish to lead. I have read most of Pat Williams’ writing and this book resides among his best works!!! The conclusion alone makes me want to reread it!!

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the compassion of Ulysses S. Grant to the heroism of Peter Wang ROTC (Granted posthumous admission to the West Point class of 2015. You'll have to read the book to find out why.) I was held spellbound and captive as I read of the attributes and accomplishments of some of our country's greatest heroes.

Between the covers of Character Carved in Stone by Pat Williams, you will find stories of West Point graduates whose lives personified the virtues of that institution.  The author then continues with ways to incorporate those some concepts into your own life.



These are my favorite quotes from each of the 12 Virtues:

"Leaders with authentic compassion are strong, courageous, honest, and direct." p35

"Faith replaces fear with courage." p51

"Live each day dedicated to the future." p66

"Determination means making up your mind that you will achieve your goal...expecting roadblocks and obstacles, but prepared to find a way over, around, or straight through them." p77

"Dignity is a priceless virtue--a virtue that is in danger of extinction in our society." p92

"Success is the result of discipline, of repeatedly doing the things that lead to excellence." p104

"A person of integrity is whole and complete--not divided or compartmentalized. A person of integrity will be the same person in public and in private. The inner reality will match the outward reputation." p123

"Always stand up for your people. Always have their backs. If they are attacked or criticized, defend them... That is what loyalty demands of you." p137

"Pray for the power to persevere. Never give in. Never give up. Never quit." p153

"We don't blame other people. We don't blame circumstances. We don't blame God. We accept full responsibility." p167

"Throughout our nation's history, generations of Americans have enjoyed freedom and prosperity because American soldiers have selflessly served their country." p180

"When we trust one another, we can accomplish great things. Without trust, we are defeated before we begin." p199

Who should read and use Character Carved in Stone? Everyone! Parents, preachers, politicians (especially), grandparents, teachers, teenagers, students, farmers, waiters... Everyone!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Revell/Baker Publishing Group. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

[Janelle Cole · Rating 5 out of 5]

When a book takes me back to my Alma Mater, I have a special fondness for it. When an author can weave a message together with historical accounts, personal experiences and practical application, I am hooked.
Character Carved in Stone - The 12 Core Virtues of West Point that Build Leaders and Produce Success - by Pat Williams and Jim Denney was that book.
West Point was such a pivotal part of my life. The training there pushed me well beyond what I ever thought I could do. I found friends that will be in my life forever, and I met my husband. So many leaders and peers influenced me at such a deep level that when I go back there, even just in my mind, my heart swells. Establishing who I was on the foundation they were laying, changed me and the course of my life. These truths that they about beat in to us, are life changing for anyone and can be life changing as well. Discipline, Integrity, Loyalty, Courage - and of course Trust (or honestly) are all needed at a deeper level today than ever before.
Each of the 12 chapters explores a character trait that is tied back to West Point. Each trait is also associated with a historical figure like Grant, and gives an account of their life and how that character trait defined them early on and throughout their lives. As you read about this trait and how it impacts a person you also read about a person who embodied that trait. Seeing how people apply these ideas in their own lives can be inspiring to us to apply them in our own lives as well.
I really enjoyed reading this book, the chapters are well written and flow at a quick pace. I also appreciated the history lesson that continues throughout, even learning some history associated with West Point that I did not know!
I highly recommend this book, it a great read for history lovers, self-help readers and those who are looking to apply character in every area of their lives.
NOTE: I received a copy of Character Carved in Stone in exchange for an honest review.

[Mark · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really don't know much about Westpoint, but this book intrigued me, so I requested it for review. It is more of a deep read than my average reading material, but it was an interesting read. There is a lot of history in it, as the authors go as far back as the Civil War to relate stories of graduates who portrayed the characteristics well.

There are people in the book I have heard and read a lot about, and others I had no clue who they were. The author did a great job of finding the information and compiling it in a book like this. Since I don't know a lot about Westpoint, I had no idea that they had leadership virtues, or what they were. I enjoyed learning about them, as well those who exemplified those virtues down through the last couple hundred years.

In addition to learning about these people, I also walked away with a greater appreciation for our military and what they do to keep our country safe. Along with that, I also learned more about these virtues and how important they are for all of us, not just the military.

I was given a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Sam · Rating 2 out of 5]

Trite and uncompelling.

[Mark Wheeler · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you enjoy military history and if you appreciate books on the character qualities of leaders, then you need to read Pat Williams latest book, Character Carved In Stone: The 12 Core Virtues of West Point That Build Leaders and Produce Success. As the title suggests, the book expounds on the twelve virtues of character that the United States Military Academy seeks to instill in their cadets.

As the author explains in the introduction, there are twelve stone benches at Trophy Point overlooking the Hudson River on the campus of the United States Military Academy at West Point. Each bench is inscribed with a word representing a key leadership virtue: compassion, courage, dedication, determination, dignity, discipline, integrity, loyalty, perseverance, responsibility, service, and trust.

I believe these twelve virtues are crucial to leadership and success in this or any era. If you exemplify these twelve character traits, you will be a leader, because you will stand head and shoulders above most of your peers as a person worthy of being followed and emulated. If you exemplify these twelve qualities, you will be a success in any endeavor you put your mind to, because no one who is a role model of these qualities could ever be considered a failure. Wherever you lead, these twelve virtues will magnify your influence and propel you toward great service, great goals, great achievements, and great distinction.

To flesh out these twelve virtues, Williams profiles the men and women who have graduated from West Point, from the Civil War era to the War on Terror. Ulysses S. Grant embodied compassion. Alexander “Sandy” Ramsy Nininger Jr. demonstrated courage. Buzz Aldrin, Ed White, Michael Collins, and Frank Borman—four astronauts from West Point—showed dedication. Maggie Dixon, who coached the women’s basketball team for one year prior to her death exhibited determination, along with H. Norman Schwarzkopf. John J. “Black Jack” Pershing embodied dignity. Sylvanus Thayer, who helped reform West Point as its Superintendent, showed discipline. Dwight D. Eisenhower was a man of integrity. Matthew Bunker Ridgway demonstrated great loyalty. Perseverance was demonstrated by the lives and deaths of a number of women and men. Mike Krzyzewski and Douglas MacArthur showed what responsibility looks like. David Moniac, the first Native American to graduate from the Academy demonstrated service. Omar Bradley exhibited the quality of trust. The book closes with Peter Wang, who showed true heroism as a Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) member when he was gunned down while saving the lives of fellow classmates during a school shoot in 2018.

In addition to the profiles, the author includes numerous suggestions and practical ideas as to how to build the character qualities into your life. The book is encouraging, uplifting, and challenging. Well worth adding to your leadership library.

Disclosure: I received this book free from Baker Books through the Baker Books Bloggers program. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review.

[Faith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Using examples of both historical and more recent West Point graduates, Pat Williams takes us through the 12 core values of West Point and how they define a good leader. Each of these characteristics are carved into one of twelve stone benches on the West Point campus. Compassion, courage, integrity, dignity, perseverance, determination, dedication, responsibility, discipline, service, loyalty and trust.



I really enjoyed learning about West Point's rich history and about just a few of its famous alumni, from the compassion of Ulysses S. Grant, to the courage of the Astronauts of Apollo II, as well as a family with a long legacy of West Point graduates. Some of my favorite chapters were about lesser known heroes, who though not as commonly praised, were no less deserving, one of my favorite biographies was that of the Father of West Point, Sylvanus Thayer, as well as that of Omar Bradley.



Engaging and inspiring, this was a very quick read that piqued my interest into looking deeper into the stories of some of the people mentioned within its pages. I learned so much, and would definitely recommend this book as a pleasant and entertaining read for all ages, as I believe that it's never too early to learn good character.



Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

[Jill Rey · Rating 3 out of 5]

Authors, Pat Williams and Jim Denney, have paired up to write several leadership based books, including Coach Wooden’s Forgotten Teams: Stories and Lessons from John Wooden’s Summer Basketball Camps. In this, the second book read by author duo, I continue to be amazed by the niche in which they are able to theme their book, but the broad audience in which the lessons apply.

Character Carved in Stone: The 12 Core Virtues of West Point that Build Leaders and Produce Success provides engaging military history with valuable and applicable leadership lessons. For instance, determination is important to achieve your goals whether one is a business leader, coach or military general. Similarly, like military leaders, when you let employees or soldiers make their own decisions and stand back without interference, you show your subordinates that you trust them and simultaneously earn their trust right back.

These lessons are just a few of what you can expect to uncover through an extensive dive into the history and traditions of the West Point Military Academy. Each chapter does a great job following a military hero that stood out in portraying the values and virtues of West Point. This intriguing read of war history and insight shows the steadfast leadership characteristics applicable to both the battle field and board room.

*Disclaimer: A review copy was provided by the publisher. All opinions are my own.

[Vickie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Through a series of vignettes about the great military leaders of our nation who have graduated from West Point, the author encourages his readers that we, too, can develop the qualities of great leaders and have success in our lives. This is like a short biography of many different military leaders, some from the last century and others from the time of the Civil War. I was most interested to find out more about U.S. Grant since he was never really hailed as a hero here in my native South. I also enjoyed reading about General Omar Bradley and his sacrifices, the reason his men trusted him enough to follow him into battle. Each story is told with the backdrop of West Point and the influence it had on each leader. I never knew about the benches at West Point, but the qualities that each leader showed and the qualities taught at West Point are some that I hope others in the United States can aspire to. This was an inspirational book that all should read and refer to frequently.

Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

[Nancy Larimer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is well w"Character Carved in Stone" by Pat Williams and Jim Denney is a non fiction Christian book. This book is written about the 12 different benches at United States Military Academy at West Point. The 12 benches signify these 12 character qualities: compassion, courage, dedication, determination, dignity, discipline, integrity, loyalty, perseverance, responsibility, service, and trust. The author writes about a person who attended West Point who lives out each one of the character qualities. The author gives examples about how the character quality is seen in the person. The book is rich in history and has wonderful stories. The book challenges us to have more of these qualities in our lives. Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for allowing me to read and review this book. I am not obligated to write a positive review.ritten and I highly recommend this book.

[Danielle Urban · Rating 5 out of 5]

Character Carved in Stone by Pat Williams is the essential guide for setting one's character in place. The book is enjoyable to read. It contains stories on each of the twelve virtues. Virtues are necessary to good leaders. They help us to become excellent examples to others. By using these we can then successfully be leaders. I liked how each page contained real situations on virtues such as compassion and courage. The writing was easy to read. It was deep, thoughtful, and meaningful. This book gave a lot to show, think upon, and to do. Despite the military background in which Character in Stone is derived from, these are lessons and virtues that can be used and taken anywhere in life. Overall, I would recommend reading Pat Williams's book to all. 

I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.

[Tom · Rating 2 out of 5]

More like two and a half stars, I read this one after the students at my school were assigned to. The biographies of famed West Pointers are often fine, but the author seems to be stretching a point in some cases to tie his subjects to the qualities he connects them to. Additionally, while I had no real problem with this aspect, the book often connects the way to success to belief in God. Few chapters go by where a subject’s religious faith isn’t mentioned, and the author suggests that courage only comes from God and we should always ask God for forgiveness among other ideas. I’m not a religious person, so I don’t think some of the ideas presented here would be of much use to me. I wasn’t offended or anything along those lines, but figured it was worth saying something here if you’d rather avoid that sort of talk in a book like this one.

[victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was incredible, unexpected stories writing with a rare of entertaining that will be motivates and inspires us to reading with that also Pat Williams had tells us the story and show us the values of The United States Military Academy in action of the twelve West Point virtues that were carved into the souls of the cadets of the Academy of many man or woman who builds a life of those twelve virtues will become, by definition, an ethical effective leader weather in the military or in civilian life. I highly recommend to everyone must to read this book. “ I received complimentary a copy of this book from Revell Reads for this review”.

[Todd McGlinchey · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book on the characteristics that make make West Point Cadets successful and any other leader. The stories are fantastic. The usual West Point heads are there: Grant, Eisenhower, Pershing, MacArther, Bradley. There were a lot of hidden gems for me as well. Each person displaying the 12 virtues carved on the benches at West Point. The introduction about coach K reeled me in from the stat. You will laugh, shed a tear or two, but most leave inspired and motivated to be a better you! I highly recommend this book. It was very easy to read.

[Jennifer Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. The author takes the 12 character traits carved on granite benches overlooking the Hudson River at West Point and presents biographical sketches of people who demonstrate these character traits. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to learn about these amazing people and the contributions they have made to our country. The traits are leadership qualities that should be developed in every young person. I highly recommend this book to teachers, coaches, and anyone who works in a field that strives to develop people of character.

[Rick Gilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Examples worthy of application in our lives

I find myself wanting to metaphorically, if not physically sit on each of the 12 granite benches at West Point and ponder the people and examples of each of these virtues while examining how I might personally sharpen the saw in my own thoughts and actions. I loved the weaving of biography and ideals. Four and five star generals, and people of character in all walks of life shine a light on how we might best live.

[John Gonski · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve had this book sitting on my shelf to read for quite some time, don’t know why I didn’t start it sooner. Outstanding read on leadership and character that we all can take something away from. Even though all the examples correspond with historical figures that passed through West Point, everyone will be able to relate. Tying traits of their character to their actions that are well documented allow to humanize the virtues.

[Autumn Kearney · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Arranged along the walkways near the Battle Memorial are twelve benches carved from costly pink granite. Each bench is inscribed with a word representing one of the twelve leadership virtues of West Point: compassion integrity courage loyalty dedication perseverance determination responsibility dignity service discipline trust"

What a good reminder! That alone makes this book worth the price of admission.

[Jim Serger · Rating 5 out of 5]

Apsolutly one of the author's best books--this will resonate with anyone. 12 core virtues that have stood the test of time.
All ages can learn and instantly adapt the message the author lays out--we have these bench marks, well written and very informative in the rich history of West Point. 5 stars +1 or 2 if I could-/amazing leadership book.

[Eric · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pat Williams shares in "Character Carved in Stone" the 12 core virtues of leadership taught at West Point through examples from historical graduates of the military academy.

The stories are interesting and capture each core values in a mostly enthusiastic way. There are some dry moments in the writing, but overall a good book.

**Received as a Goodreads Giveaway prize.

[Lonnie Visintainer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book detailing the character traits that make good men, and giving historically relevant examples of those who lived according to these values. It's as much a history book as it is a self help book. It's very well written and does a fantastic job keeping your attention. It's one of my Favorites that I will be passing down to my son's.

[Andrew · Rating 5 out of 5]

Terrific read. A perfect balance of history mixed with teaching the importance of these virtues discussed in the book. This book is more than just a self help book but more of a guide on why these virtues are still valuable to today's society and how they are cultivated.

[Rick Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great book and Pat Williams does a fantastic job of weaving the core virtues of West Point into stories about the lives of several graduates. This is a well-written, easy to read book that presents many leadership lessons for people of all ages.