THE FIGURE OF A TRUE COMMANDER-LEADER

Abstract

The Russo-Ukrainian war intensified the issue of leadership among officers and commanders, encouraged them to show their best qualities and show a high level of professionalism on the battlefield. The article deals with the portrait of a true commanderleader, clarifies his/her main characteristics and skills that ensure the effective implementation of military and professional tasks and leadership of subordinate personnel, in particular in combat situations. A true commander-leader, capable of leading personnel, making difficult decisions and acting effectively in the face of challenges and threats, motivating subordinates to purposeful actions and heroic deeds, today is a symbol of faith, trust and victory. A true commander-leader is described as a combatant who is always close to his men in battle, is tested in battle, and able to overcome fear and failure of subordinates, strengthens their mental stability, instills in them faith in victory, purposefully moves to success, achieving tactical and strategic goals with his team. The ability of the commander-leader to work under conditions of uncertainty and new challenges, in particular during hostilities, possession of undisputed leadership qualities, oratory is described. It has been found that a true commander-leader is able to train new leaders, he knows and understands that the success of a combat mission is not only the result of his command of the unit, but also the work of the entire team. It is proved that the commanderleader bears full responsibility and makes effective decisions, enjoys considerable respect among subordinates and is fully committed to his work. The article gives examples of real commander-leaders who today successfully manage personnel on the battlefield and lead Ukraine step by step to victory. It is emphasized that the commander’s possession of these qualities and skills allows an officer to be an effective leader and leader in a military unit, to form a team led by him in order to ensure successful combat missions, including in direct threat to life and health of servicemen.