What do you think?
Rate this book
Surf When You Can: Lessons in Life, Loyalty, and Leadership from a Maverick Navy Captain
Inspiring lessons learned from a lifetime of honor, service, and leadership from Captain Brett Crozier, the former commanding officer of the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt and renowned Navy officer.
Amid one of the darkest times in American history, it was a moment that captured the attention of the nation. Brett Crozier, captain of the most powerful and prestigious aircraft carrier in the United States Navy, walked off his ship for the last time while thousands of his sailors saluted and chanted his name in admiration.
This remarkable moment occurred after Crozier made the decision to try to protect his sailors by pleading with his superiors for help when COVID-19 swept through the vessel. Two days later, he was relieved of command.
Now, Crozier reflects on his life, career, and commitment to doing the right thing in a book that celebrates the power of kindness, the importance of teamwork, and the value of standing up for what you believe in. Through a series of captivating stories set all around the world, Crozier takes us along on the grand adventures of his extraordinary career and introduces the incredible people he met along the way.
From his days as fighter pilot facing near-death experiences to commandeering suspected pirate vessels in the Persian Gulf, and of course, seizing any opportunity to enjoy one of his favorite hobbies—surfing—Crozier distills the lessons he has learned and the principles that have guided him, showing how you can apply them to your personal and professional life.
Amid one of the darkest times in American history, it was a moment that captured the attention of the nation. Brett Crozier, captain of the most powerful and prestigious aircraft carrier in the United States Navy, walked off his ship for the last time while thousands of his sailors saluted and chanted his name in admiration.
This remarkable moment occurred after Crozier made the decision to try to protect his sailors by pleading with his superiors for help when COVID-19 swept through the vessel. Two days later, he was relieved of command.
Now, Crozier reflects on his life, career, and commitment to doing the right thing in a book that celebrates the power of kindness, the importance of teamwork, and the value of standing up for what you believe in. Through a series of captivating stories set all around the world, Crozier takes us along on the grand adventures of his extraordinary career and introduces the incredible people he met along the way.
From his days as fighter pilot facing near-death experiences to commandeering suspected pirate vessels in the Persian Gulf, and of course, seizing any opportunity to enjoy one of his favorite hobbies—surfing—Crozier distills the lessons he has learned and the principles that have guided him, showing how you can apply them to your personal and professional life.
240 pages, Hardcover
Published June 13, 2023
146 people are currently reading
3358 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
March 20, 2023
Captain Crozier might actually be the actual real-life Most Interesting Man in the World.
Surf When You Can not only make everyone want to pick up a surfboard and join the navy, it positively influences everyone who reads it to live by life's simple principles and become a better human in return.
I never fully grasped the simplicity of being a leader worth following until I read this book. I hope it becomes a movie because each and every story in it is incredible, unexpected, and comes to life. Until then, this absolutely is a book I will read over and over again.
Surf When You Can not only make everyone want to pick up a surfboard and join the navy, it positively influences everyone who reads it to live by life's simple principles and become a better human in return.
I never fully grasped the simplicity of being a leader worth following until I read this book. I hope it becomes a movie because each and every story in it is incredible, unexpected, and comes to life. Until then, this absolutely is a book I will read over and over again.
December 23, 2023
If I could give this book 6 stars I would. Putting it up there with alpha and black hearts as a must read. Although short read, it’s packed with some of the best sea stores/ military/leadership lessons I’ve ever heard. Not to mention, this man makes it sound easy to be a helicopter pilot, jet pilot, and nuclear reactor trained surface warfare officer. I cannot even fathom how incredibly hardworking and skilled this guy is. Kind of book I know I will want to reread again eventually. Alas, some notes I pulled—
- your true impact in this world, is not solely defined by your own capabilities, but by the relationships you have with other people. They will either magnify your capabilities, or you will magnify theirs, but collectively it will make us a much stronger team.
- It’s ok to fail and be less than perfect as long as you don’t give up and you continue to push your own limits. What’s more important is that we are honest with ourselves to recognize our deficiencies and be willing to address them.
- If you take a risk, you just might achieve more than you ever thought possible
- Admitting what you don’t know is the first step to learning and growing
- Tell someone what to do and they’ll do the task set before them, teach someone how to think for themselves and they’ll solve problems on their own for the rest of their lives
- Take care of your sailors/ marines, they will take care of everything else.
- Good leaders lead, good leaders act, good leaders prioritize, good leaders mentor, good leaders balance family/self/work
- As a leader, you are not just being paid to punch the clock. You are here to make big decisions; and the only way you can make big decisions, is if you have time to think big thoughts. And the only way to think big thoughts is to have uninterrupted time to yourself.
- Important that people feel they can stand up to you, regardless of rank/position. It’s not enough that a high performing organization. Must expect it and build a culture to encourage even the most junior member to speak up when something seems out of line
- We can move through life on a path of least resistance hoping others will take the lead when tough decisions need to be made. But by standing up for what you believe in, standing up for the well being of others regardless of the personal consequences, that’s where true character can be forged.
- Keep your head on a swivel, your eye on a shipmate, and be ready for the fight when the day comes
- If you see a turtle on a fence post, you know it didn’t get there by itself
- your true impact in this world, is not solely defined by your own capabilities, but by the relationships you have with other people. They will either magnify your capabilities, or you will magnify theirs, but collectively it will make us a much stronger team.
- It’s ok to fail and be less than perfect as long as you don’t give up and you continue to push your own limits. What’s more important is that we are honest with ourselves to recognize our deficiencies and be willing to address them.
- If you take a risk, you just might achieve more than you ever thought possible
- Admitting what you don’t know is the first step to learning and growing
- Tell someone what to do and they’ll do the task set before them, teach someone how to think for themselves and they’ll solve problems on their own for the rest of their lives
- Take care of your sailors/ marines, they will take care of everything else.
- Good leaders lead, good leaders act, good leaders prioritize, good leaders mentor, good leaders balance family/self/work
- As a leader, you are not just being paid to punch the clock. You are here to make big decisions; and the only way you can make big decisions, is if you have time to think big thoughts. And the only way to think big thoughts is to have uninterrupted time to yourself.
- Important that people feel they can stand up to you, regardless of rank/position. It’s not enough that a high performing organization. Must expect it and build a culture to encourage even the most junior member to speak up when something seems out of line
- We can move through life on a path of least resistance hoping others will take the lead when tough decisions need to be made. But by standing up for what you believe in, standing up for the well being of others regardless of the personal consequences, that’s where true character can be forged.
- Keep your head on a swivel, your eye on a shipmate, and be ready for the fight when the day comes
- If you see a turtle on a fence post, you know it didn’t get there by itself
August 26, 2023
“Surf When You Can” by CAPT Brett Crozier
A collection of memorable life lessons and stories from over 30 years serving in the world’s greatest Navy…including the absolutely heart wrenching story of facing the global pandemic from the decks of the USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT. As a naval officer myself, I remember hearing about CAPT Crozier’s plight pushing back against Big Navy during the COVID outbreak and being devastated that a leader like that was fired. Reading it from his perspective broke my heart all over again, but it also inspired me. He calls for us as leaders to be courageous and stick to our values no matter what. He tells stories that are relatable and applicable to everyday life and I think I will find myself recommending this book to my JO’s and my wardroom one day. It was entertaining, heartfelt, and I am truly jealous that I did not get an opportunity to serve under CAPT Crozier myself. Bravo!
A collection of memorable life lessons and stories from over 30 years serving in the world’s greatest Navy…including the absolutely heart wrenching story of facing the global pandemic from the decks of the USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT. As a naval officer myself, I remember hearing about CAPT Crozier’s plight pushing back against Big Navy during the COVID outbreak and being devastated that a leader like that was fired. Reading it from his perspective broke my heart all over again, but it also inspired me. He calls for us as leaders to be courageous and stick to our values no matter what. He tells stories that are relatable and applicable to everyday life and I think I will find myself recommending this book to my JO’s and my wardroom one day. It was entertaining, heartfelt, and I am truly jealous that I did not get an opportunity to serve under CAPT Crozier myself. Bravo!
July 30, 2023
one of those books with life lessons
I’m grateful Captain Crozier made the time to share his life lessons from throughout the Navy. One can learn the importance of kindness, grace, readiness, and training for starters. Also the need to be alert and share when things are NKR. Yes, the fight against Covid is in here, but also many lessons on leadership. Go get this book and when done, share with others.
I’m grateful Captain Crozier made the time to share his life lessons from throughout the Navy. One can learn the importance of kindness, grace, readiness, and training for starters. Also the need to be alert and share when things are NKR. Yes, the fight against Covid is in here, but also many lessons on leadership. Go get this book and when done, share with others.
October 2, 2024
I would 100% recommend Surf When You Can. If there's a person you want to hear lessons on life and leadership from, it is the Naval Captain that was cheered on, saluted, and loved by his sailors as he walked off the Teddy Roosevelt for the last time. Most telling, this is after he was fired by the 4-star Chief Naval Officer for trying to protect his sailors during Covid-19.
An easy listen, and I would imagine an easy read as well. Capt Crozier shares anecdotes from his life as he shares the leadership lesson learned along the way. Lessons that fit into the military or civilian world, being a father or a friend, or simply just being a good person. Here are a few of my favorite quotes from the book, transcribed from voice to text (apologies for any incongruencies):
Chapter 2: Learn Like You’re Going To Live Forever
“As a leader interested in setting a positive example and a human who believes he can learn from anyone anytime, I made a point of raising my hand every time someone used an acronym that sounded remotely alien. Hold on a second I’d say, raising my hand. Remind me what a GUI means. The way I saw it one of 3 things would happen. First, someone might laugh at me because I was the only one in the room that apparently didn’t know what a Graphically User Interface or touch screen was. Second, those who didn’t know what GUI meant that were afraid to ask now had greater insight on what was happening. Third and most important, was that I was a setting an example to my ship mates that admitting what you don’t know was the first step to learning and growing, as people, and as an organization.”
Chapter 3: When in Doubt, be Kind.
“Praise in public, reprimand in private.”
“Perfection is an illusive goal. Part of being a good leader is recognizing your mistakes and owning them.”
Chapter 5: Pull Like a Clydesdale.
On being a refueling (support) pilot as the CO: ”It wasn’t the MVP position I had craved in my early days, but I knew the job was just as crucial none the less. As critical as its individual parts may be to its team’s success. An equally important yet often overlooked element of success is how leaders manage the people around them. For me, one of the key aspects of leadership no matter what the circumstance or scenario. Boils down to this Understand the importance of each and every person to the team. Make sure they know it, then delegate to them the power for them to perform to their fullest potential.”
“The flip side of course comes when people are scared of being responsible for things that are out of their control and then fail to successfully delegate to those around them. They fail to let anyone have any control of anything around them, even the little things, because they are so scared it might go wrong. The product of such a mindset is an organization that is so incredibly micromanaged, that nothing gets done. At least not without prior approval and oversight from the boss. It makes for a difficult place to work and a very ineffective organization.
Chapter 7: Surf When You Can
“There are countless characteristics that define quality leadership. But for me, five stand out amongst the rest: Good leaders lead, Good leaders act, Good leaders prioritize, good leaders mentor, and most importantly good leaders balance family self and work. This last one was always met with a few raised eyebrows… Yet here was the captain of the ship saying the most important thing you can do is not work… Don’t lose sight of the many things that make up who you are. When your career is over, your health, your family, and your friends are what will define your life. Don’t think that you can turn your back on those things now… and I bet that by taking time off when you can, you’ll make better decisions at work, and be a better leader.”
Chapter 9: Take a Stand
“I will never forget Chief Thacker or the entire TR Crew. But I know in my heart we did everything we could to keep those sailors safe and healthy. I took a stand for the people I was responsible for and lucky enough to lead. I may have lost my job as a result, but I feel good knowing that when faced with a challenging situation with many lives at steak, I chose to take care of my sailors rather than to protect my career”
“That is the great lesson for my time in the navy. You can move through life on a path of least resistance, hoping others will take the lead when tough decisions need to be made. But by standing up for what you believe in, standing up for the well-being of others regardless of the personal consequences, that is when true character can be forged.
“Keep your head on a swivel, eye on a ship mate, and be ready for the fight when the day comes.”
Acknowledgments:
To his wife: “They say in life one of the most important decisions you’ll make is whom you choose to marry. Choose correctly, and that decision will eclipse whatever else you do and lead to a life of happiness. In that case, I got the decision right.”
An easy listen, and I would imagine an easy read as well. Capt Crozier shares anecdotes from his life as he shares the leadership lesson learned along the way. Lessons that fit into the military or civilian world, being a father or a friend, or simply just being a good person. Here are a few of my favorite quotes from the book, transcribed from voice to text (apologies for any incongruencies):
Chapter 2: Learn Like You’re Going To Live Forever
“As a leader interested in setting a positive example and a human who believes he can learn from anyone anytime, I made a point of raising my hand every time someone used an acronym that sounded remotely alien. Hold on a second I’d say, raising my hand. Remind me what a GUI means. The way I saw it one of 3 things would happen. First, someone might laugh at me because I was the only one in the room that apparently didn’t know what a Graphically User Interface or touch screen was. Second, those who didn’t know what GUI meant that were afraid to ask now had greater insight on what was happening. Third and most important, was that I was a setting an example to my ship mates that admitting what you don’t know was the first step to learning and growing, as people, and as an organization.”
Chapter 3: When in Doubt, be Kind.
“Praise in public, reprimand in private.”
“Perfection is an illusive goal. Part of being a good leader is recognizing your mistakes and owning them.”
Chapter 5: Pull Like a Clydesdale.
On being a refueling (support) pilot as the CO: ”It wasn’t the MVP position I had craved in my early days, but I knew the job was just as crucial none the less. As critical as its individual parts may be to its team’s success. An equally important yet often overlooked element of success is how leaders manage the people around them. For me, one of the key aspects of leadership no matter what the circumstance or scenario. Boils down to this Understand the importance of each and every person to the team. Make sure they know it, then delegate to them the power for them to perform to their fullest potential.”
“The flip side of course comes when people are scared of being responsible for things that are out of their control and then fail to successfully delegate to those around them. They fail to let anyone have any control of anything around them, even the little things, because they are so scared it might go wrong. The product of such a mindset is an organization that is so incredibly micromanaged, that nothing gets done. At least not without prior approval and oversight from the boss. It makes for a difficult place to work and a very ineffective organization.
Chapter 7: Surf When You Can
“There are countless characteristics that define quality leadership. But for me, five stand out amongst the rest: Good leaders lead, Good leaders act, Good leaders prioritize, good leaders mentor, and most importantly good leaders balance family self and work. This last one was always met with a few raised eyebrows… Yet here was the captain of the ship saying the most important thing you can do is not work… Don’t lose sight of the many things that make up who you are. When your career is over, your health, your family, and your friends are what will define your life. Don’t think that you can turn your back on those things now… and I bet that by taking time off when you can, you’ll make better decisions at work, and be a better leader.”
Chapter 9: Take a Stand
“I will never forget Chief Thacker or the entire TR Crew. But I know in my heart we did everything we could to keep those sailors safe and healthy. I took a stand for the people I was responsible for and lucky enough to lead. I may have lost my job as a result, but I feel good knowing that when faced with a challenging situation with many lives at steak, I chose to take care of my sailors rather than to protect my career”
“That is the great lesson for my time in the navy. You can move through life on a path of least resistance, hoping others will take the lead when tough decisions need to be made. But by standing up for what you believe in, standing up for the well-being of others regardless of the personal consequences, that is when true character can be forged.
“Keep your head on a swivel, eye on a ship mate, and be ready for the fight when the day comes.”
Acknowledgments:
To his wife: “They say in life one of the most important decisions you’ll make is whom you choose to marry. Choose correctly, and that decision will eclipse whatever else you do and lead to a life of happiness. In that case, I got the decision right.”
May 9, 2023
This was such a nice read. Captain Crozier demonstrates such humility and humanity throughout the stories he tells from his long and prestigious Naval career. Interesting insights into the life of a Navy pilot and captain, yet still relatable to someone with a non-military background. The seemingly basic lessons he imparts are ones that too easily and often get forgotten in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Kindness, empathy, respect, and learning from others and their values, are just a few of the lessons he learned throughout his career. He is big on empowering others through proper training, prioritizing the most important things for any job or task at hand, and speaking up if something is not quite right (NKR). His attitude of Take care of your Sailors, and standing up for what you believe is right, even if it puts his own career on the line, is so refreshing in a world that so often prioritizes self and personal gain. If a Navy Captain can lead by such a positive example, we all should be able to do some of the same, whether in our personal or professional lives. I highly recommend this book, and also to Surf When You Can!
Thanks Goodreads for the advance reader’s edition.
Thanks Goodreads for the advance reader’s edition.
December 23, 2023
This book fucked me up. I’ve been struggling recently trying to wrestle with a lot of the things Chopper talked about in this book. Particularly how to deal with high ups who don’t want to listen to you. Really enjoyed this one. Highly recommend
April 4, 2023
Don’t miss ordering this book in pre-sale‼️ It’s a winner. I read the galley and it’s a story of a Navy Officer who never lost his moral compass, even when faced with the deadly Covid virus attacking the sailors on the US Teddy Roosevelt that he commanded. Even though his command was taken away from him for sending up the red flag for the safety of his sailors, he never lost his compassionate leadership for his crew. A true American Hero tells his side of the story for the first time. You won’t be able to put it down‼️
July 1, 2023
Sailors FIRST. Mission ALWAYS.
Enough said! AMEN.
5 SOLID stars, Captain. I salute you.
Enough said! AMEN.
5 SOLID stars, Captain. I salute you.
December 10, 2024
I randomly added this audio book to my Spotify library because I saw the title shortly after I started learning to surf. I had no idea what it was about, not even that it was a military memoir. Cue to a few months later when I had free time again, and I started listening to it in earnest only to realize I already knew the story of Capt Brett Crozier and his leaked message about the USS Roosevelt and Covid quarantine because it has been a hot topic amongst midshipman who at the time were displaced around the country after the Navy told us not to return to school following spring break.
Most of the book is reiterations of lessons that we are taught continuously throughout our development as JOs, but I enjoyed Capt Crozier’s delivery. I found his dictation similar to a conversation with a mentor which was very engaging and quite calming. I think this is the second audiobook I’ve made it through, so I guess military memoirs are the only audiobooks I can get behind. Either way hearing his own voice tell his own story was infinitely better than it would’ve been reading it dry. His chapter on his removal from command was interesting and served as a fair summary of the other points he’d been making throughout the book, but I truly enjoyed his recounting of his time as a JO and pilot the most interesting. (I wonder why)
Absolutely would recommend, and absolutely in audiobook format. (to clarify for those whom I’ve misled about my audiobook reading in the past)
Most of the book is reiterations of lessons that we are taught continuously throughout our development as JOs, but I enjoyed Capt Crozier’s delivery. I found his dictation similar to a conversation with a mentor which was very engaging and quite calming. I think this is the second audiobook I’ve made it through, so I guess military memoirs are the only audiobooks I can get behind. Either way hearing his own voice tell his own story was infinitely better than it would’ve been reading it dry. His chapter on his removal from command was interesting and served as a fair summary of the other points he’d been making throughout the book, but I truly enjoyed his recounting of his time as a JO and pilot the most interesting. (I wonder why)
Absolutely would recommend, and absolutely in audiobook format. (to clarify for those whom I’ve misled about my audiobook reading in the past)
August 8, 2023
One of the best books I've read this year! Wonderful approach-to-life, reflective, character-building passages, peppered with fascinating details and specs of F/A-18's and carrier ops at sea. (I wish my Dad were here to discuss it!) it's an easy read and seems like a great gift book with such broad appeal.
Frame of reference: Crozier is the Navy Captain who found himself at the center of a public tempest in March 2020 after sending a proactive email (later leaked to the press) in efforts to save his crew from rapidly spreading Covid, an action which cost him his command. Yet his character remains unimpeachable: his personal stake is never elevated over those he leads, and he writes/speaks without rancor or bitterness. He simply considers it a price worth paying to help his crew, and remains unflinchingly positive about his Naval career, from which he retired in 2022. (Not surprisingly, at a recent speaking engagement-- Crozier is a local alumni-- several attendees suggested he run for public office!)
Frame of reference: Crozier is the Navy Captain who found himself at the center of a public tempest in March 2020 after sending a proactive email (later leaked to the press) in efforts to save his crew from rapidly spreading Covid, an action which cost him his command. Yet his character remains unimpeachable: his personal stake is never elevated over those he leads, and he writes/speaks without rancor or bitterness. He simply considers it a price worth paying to help his crew, and remains unflinchingly positive about his Naval career, from which he retired in 2022. (Not surprisingly, at a recent speaking engagement-- Crozier is a local alumni-- several attendees suggested he run for public office!)
September 25, 2023
Navy Captain Brett Crozier served honorably for 30 years before his sudden termination as Commanding Officer aboard the Aircraft Carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt on April 3, 2020. He was fired because he put his duty to his sailors above petty politics. The acting Secretary of the Navy decided to relieve Captain Crozier because of a email he had sent warning his Superiors about the alarming rise of positive COVID cases aboard his ship.
However, Captain Crozier has maintained a positive attitude about his removal of CO aboard the TR.
Hence his book reflects his philosophy about not only the Navy, but about life in general. "Surf When You Can" is about always thinking on the positive and not the negative. Try not to take life so seriously, and enjoy life as it comes was my take on the Captain's book.
However, Captain Crozier has maintained a positive attitude about his removal of CO aboard the TR.
Hence his book reflects his philosophy about not only the Navy, but about life in general. "Surf When You Can" is about always thinking on the positive and not the negative. Try not to take life so seriously, and enjoy life as it comes was my take on the Captain's book.
August 12, 2023
Great book!
CAPT Crozier has lived many a young person's dream. Navy fighter pilot. Commanding officer of multiple ships. Kickass surfer.
While it didn't end the way he had hoped, the Captain can rest easy knowing that he never compromised his values along the way. Tested in a way most ship captains aren't, he stood firm and did what he felt, and still feels, was right. That is testament to a life well lived.
Filled with positivity, practicality, and humility, this is an excellent read for those aspiring to fill leadership roles.
CAPT Crozier has lived many a young person's dream. Navy fighter pilot. Commanding officer of multiple ships. Kickass surfer.
While it didn't end the way he had hoped, the Captain can rest easy knowing that he never compromised his values along the way. Tested in a way most ship captains aren't, he stood firm and did what he felt, and still feels, was right. That is testament to a life well lived.
Filled with positivity, practicality, and humility, this is an excellent read for those aspiring to fill leadership roles.
July 12, 2023
Really enjoyed this book, it’s a quick, light, and enjoyable read. Good career and leadership insights and perspective, but the books final quarter or so is what you pay for, describing what happened that caused him to lose command of the TEDDY ROOSEVELT aircraft carrier. It’s a great leadership case study and I think CAPT Crozier is open and honest about mistakes he made, as well as respectfully pointing out many of the mistakes “Big Navy” made. strongly recommend
July 31, 2023
Never having met him, I was a big fan of CAPT Crozier’s after the incident on TR. After reading his book, I’m even more of a fan. Doing the right thing when right thing is plainly evident can still be challenging. Doing the right thing on the early
COVID chaos even more so. I enjoyed the look into what made him the person and leader he became. I hope his post Navy life is enjoyable and prosperous for him & his family.
Beat Army
COVID chaos even more so. I enjoyed the look into what made him the person and leader he became. I hope his post Navy life is enjoyable and prosperous for him & his family.
Beat Army
August 12, 2023
simplistic but profound lessons, that are supplemented by incredibly relevant and interesting stories of his time in the navy. what an inspirational and motivated man. captain crozier is dedicated to his country but also to being a good human who leads guided by his morals/beliefs/values. i admire and am inspired by who he is, how he leads, and what he cares about/prioritized throughout his life and career.
great read, great man, great lessons - recommend everyone reads this!!
great read, great man, great lessons - recommend everyone reads this!!
September 7, 2023
Keep your head on a swivel, an eye on a shipmate, and be ready for the fight when they day comes.
I listened to the audio book ready by CAPT Crozier and it was so great. He had such an interesting career and we all loved working for and with him on the TR. Hearing his voice say those words at the end of the book brought a tear to my eye as I recalled him saying it every time he signed off from any announcement.
Awesome leader, awesome book, highly recommend!
I listened to the audio book ready by CAPT Crozier and it was so great. He had such an interesting career and we all loved working for and with him on the TR. Hearing his voice say those words at the end of the book brought a tear to my eye as I recalled him saying it every time he signed off from any announcement.
Awesome leader, awesome book, highly recommend!
June 23, 2023
Read it!! Everyone that had an opinion on how he handled the COVID situation onboard a naval carrier & what they think should've happened, should read it. For me he was more than a rogue captain, he was doing the best he could trying to protect and take care of his sailors. Which in the end he did, it just cost him his career.
July 2, 2023
A must read for all leaders
Extremely well written with very entertaining tales throughout, this book is a must read for all leaders in and out of the military. The world would be a much better place if we had more leaders like Captain Crozier. I couldn’t recommend this book any higher.
Extremely well written with very entertaining tales throughout, this book is a must read for all leaders in and out of the military. The world would be a much better place if we had more leaders like Captain Crozier. I couldn’t recommend this book any higher.
August 15, 2023
inspiring book
I loved this book. It was very inspiring. He really described what loyalty and leadership are all about. I really liked how he treated his crew with love and respect and put their needs before his own. This is a very powerful read. You will learn about how to treat your fellow man or woman.
I loved this book. It was very inspiring. He really described what loyalty and leadership are all about. I really liked how he treated his crew with love and respect and put their needs before his own. This is a very powerful read. You will learn about how to treat your fellow man or woman.
July 12, 2023
While I have the opinion that once you’ve read one leadership book, you’ve read them all.. I’m glad this is the one I chose to pick up.
This book, and the entire end of his career, is a great reminder of why getting out of the navy was a great decision for me.
This book, and the entire end of his career, is a great reminder of why getting out of the navy was a great decision for me.
July 5, 2023
Such an amazingly interesting book!
July 8, 2023
Fabulous book
This is a truly remarkable book by an even more remarkable hero. Great read! I would absolutely recommend it to anyone.
This is a truly remarkable book by an even more remarkable hero. Great read! I would absolutely recommend it to anyone.
July 12, 2023
This was written by the Captain of the USS Theodore Roosevelt during Covid 19. My son was on the ship at the time so it was very interesting to me. Very well written.
July 14, 2023
This book was a fantastic journey through an excellent leaders life and difficult decisions, a must read for any aspiring leader facing difficulties
July 14, 2023
This should be required reading for every Navy leader from LPO to CNO.
July 27, 2023
I am so honored that I got to have him as my CO. This book is absolutely amazing and I wish that ever person who is in a leadership role would read this book and learn from him ❤️
May 13, 2024
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for some good leadership. I think Captain Crozier has some great insight and advice. This is also a book that reflects on recent events and what we learned from these events such as Covid.
One thing that stands out is how he doesn't have any animosity towards the Navy which would be easy to do in his situation and no one would blame him. I think the trait to see both sides of a difficult situation and not put all the blame on one entity speak highly of that person and their leadership. To be able to see the good within the bad, stand tall, and not complain about the other party and how you think they were wrong whether they were or not.
Definitely some great things to take away from this book and implement.
One thing that stands out is how he doesn't have any animosity towards the Navy which would be easy to do in his situation and no one would blame him. I think the trait to see both sides of a difficult situation and not put all the blame on one entity speak highly of that person and their leadership. To be able to see the good within the bad, stand tall, and not complain about the other party and how you think they were wrong whether they were or not.
Definitely some great things to take away from this book and implement.
March 30, 2024
A military memoir without the toxic masculinity, machismo à la David Goggins. Captain Brett Crozier's account of his career in the Navy demonstrates commitment, focus, empathy, respect, and self-awareness.
He and his co-author took great care making the narrative accessible to a civilian audience; he skips the jargon and dumbs down the complexities of aircraft and flight operations to a layperson reading level without sounding patronizing.
Thank you for your service, Captain Crozier, and thank you for writing this book.
He and his co-author took great care making the narrative accessible to a civilian audience; he skips the jargon and dumbs down the complexities of aircraft and flight operations to a layperson reading level without sounding patronizing.
Thank you for your service, Captain Crozier, and thank you for writing this book.
January 8, 2024
" Practice not until we get it right, but so we never get it wrong." My new motto
Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews