Why Tour Battlefields? Drawing Parallels Between our Shared History and Challenges in Modern Leadership

I was talking to an old friend of mine the other day about the battlefield tours we had participated during our military careers, or “Staff Rides” as we called them. Whether at Antietam or in the Ardennes Forest, we both agreed that even decades later, we still vividly recall the lessons we learned during those visits and all the meaningful discussions we had with our teams, on the same ground where so many men and women served and sacrificed.

To someone who has never done them before, battlefield tours may seem like simple glimpses into the past, strictly designed for military history enthusiasts. But that could be farther from the case--these places offer so many valuable insights into everyday leadership challenges, dilemmas, and decisions that remain relevant for all of us today, in all walks of life.? That's why, when they're designed to appeal to a broader non-military audience, applying the concept of experiential learning to leadership development, I've come to call them, "Leadership Experiences."

Indeed, that's truly what they are.

I've often found myself asking why more of today's leaders don’t take advantage of leadership experiences on these battlefields, at home and abroad. Especially when they're often in such proximity to them. I've come to understand that conducting off-site leadership experiences require some level of innovative thought--and even an unconventional approach to training and development of their teams.

Why, exactly, are these places--still today--essential for our personal?growth?

1. The Universal Nature of Leadership Challenges:?The challenges of leadership are universal, transcending industries, cultures, and historical eras. Historical battlefield tours is experiential learning at its finest—each offering a unique lens to understand timeless leadership dilemmas and unique situations, providing insights that are as relevant in the boardroom as they were on the battlefront.

At Gettysburg, General Lee and General Meade faced critical decisions that would play a crucial role—and arguably, a turning point in the course of the Civil War.?

At Yorktown, the successful partnership and coalition between General George Washington and French General Rochambeau showcased the power of collaborative leadership against the most formidable odds. This collaboration mirrors the challenges faced by today's leaders, where forging alliances can be key to success.

2. Emotions, Sacrifice, and Decision-making:?Both on the battlefield and in business, emotions and sacrifice play pivotal roles in shaping decision-making processes. The weight of human factors can often tip the scales, influencing choices that carry lasting consequences for teams, organizations, and broader communities.

Arlington National Cemetery stands as a somber reminder of the sacrifices made by servicemen and women. When we bring teams to Arlington, they leave with a better understanding of the profound impact of their decisions and the need to lead with compassion.

3. The Role of Strategy and Vision:?In both business and war, the role of strategy and vision can’t be overstated; they serve as guiding north stars that shape tactical decisions and long-term plans. Though the contexts may differ, the principles of setting a coherent vision and employing a well-thought-out strategy to achieve it are equally applicable and critical for success.

When we visit our national monuments and institutions in Washington, DC, we’re reminded of past visionary leaders, from George Washington and Abraham Lincoln to Martin Luther King, who shaped the course of history through their unyielding commitment to a clear vision and the courage to see it through. Today, these monuments serve as enduring testaments to the transformative power of visionary leadership.

Today’s leaders from any walk of life visit Washington, DC and are empowered to learn about the importance of leadership and inspiring people with a shared purpose.

4. The Importance of Collaboration and Coalitions:?In both war and peace, collaboration and coalitions are crucial for achieving objectives that no single entity could accomplish alone. Whether it's nations uniting to face a common enemy or companies partnering for mutual growth, the strength of many often outweighs the power of one.

When we visit Normandy, , it doesn’t take long to understand the enduring lessons of teamwork, and all that we’ve been able to achieve because of it. Nearly eight decades ago, Allies from different countries around the world united for a common goal. Current leaders, in business, non-profits, or politics, can see the value of building alliances and seeking out mutual interests toward a meaningful goal.?

Ultimately, these leadership experiences provide timeless lessons on resilience, vision, adaptability, teamwork and collaboration—all essential components of leadership. Leaders who understand these lessons are better prepared to face today's challenges.