Enhancing Unit Cohesion During Controversial Policy Change

ENHANCING UNIT COHESION DURING CONTROVERSIAL POLICY CHANGE

The Naval force of the 21st century has changed dramatically from that of the 20th century. Technological advancements, increases in joint military operations, and enhancements to quality of life have allowed the United States Navy to enlist highly qualified Sailors. Today's Sailors are a diverse group of intelligent, hard-working, multi-talented individuals who do not blindly follow orders. When faced with a controversial policy change, today's Sailors will be affected in various ways due to their diverse backgrounds and it is up to the Junior Naval Officer to recognize this and adapt as necessary to ensure mission success.

As changes to policy in the Navy take place, it is not unusual to have differing opinions amongst a group. Depending on the scale of the change in policy, resentment and anger may rise among the masses even if the change will ultimately enhance the overall organization. This is why it is immensely important to have the correct leadership in place to maintain unit cohesion. A leader who knows his/her personnel will be better prepared to work through the intermediary period by providing the necessary training and tools to each individual to allow for a smooth transition.

One needs only to turn on the news to understand that leading a group of Sailors in today's Navy requires more than just the ability to manage; one must teach, challenge, and mentor his/her subordinates to instill a cohesive unit that is more than just a group but a team. Without the ability to incorporate a variety of leadership tools during a controversial policy change, an Officer will risk losing the division's unity and will negatively impact mission readiness.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

General Military Law. U.S. Code, Title 10, sec 654. 1993.

Lucas, George R. Jr. and W. Rick Rubel, ed. Ethics and the Military Profession: the Moral Foundations of Leadership. 3rd ed. Boston: Pearson, 2011.

Mack, William P, Harry A. Seymour Jr., and Lesa A. McComas. The Naval Officer's Guide. 11th ed. Annapolis, MD: Naval Institute Press, 1998.