Rear Admiral Dixon R. Smith Commander, Navy Region Southwest and Friend to San Diego AN OFFICER AND A GENTLEMAN

Men make history and not the other way around. In periods where there is no leadership, society stands still. Progress occurs when courageous, skillful leaders seize the opportunity to change things for the better. —Harry S. Truman

My own definition of leadership is this: The capacity and the will to rally men and women to a common purpose and the character which inspires confidence. —General Montgomery

The challenge of leadership is to be strong, but not rude; be kind, but not weak; be bold, but not bully; be thoughtful, but not lazy; be humble, but not timid; be proud, but not arrogant; have humor, but without folly.

A true leader has the confidence to stand alone, the courage to make tough decisions, and the compassion to listen to the needs of others. He does not set out to be a leader, but becomes one by the equality of his actions and the integrity of his intent. —Douglas MacArthur

As we look ahead into the next century, leaders will be those who empower others. -Bill Gates

The supreme quality of leadership is integrity. –Dwight Eisenhower

Nothing so conclusively proves a man's ability to lead others as what he does from day to day to lead himself. - Thomas J. Watson Sr.

The final test of a leader is that he leaves behind him in other men, the conviction and the will to carry on.

… and so we shall. On behalf of the San Diego Regional EDC – Thank you.