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Leadership is often the most important success factor in Lean Manufacturing. The
organizational paradigm shift required for Lean Manufacturing demands visionary leadership.
Visionary leadership is quite different from management. While the necessary qualities may lie
deep in the human psyche, even visionary leadership can be learned.
Archbury, England, 1942
The American 918th Bomber Group has just returned from another mission. The 918th's
performance is dismal. The unit cannot put steel on target and is experiencing high aircraft and
crew losses. The 918th's weak demonstrations contrast with other bomber groups' success. As a
result, the 918th suffers from poor morale and a reputation as "The Hard Luck Unit."
So begins the classic World War II movie Twelve O'clock High. Many viewers, at first, find
this film to be just another good vintage war movie. In fact, it is a superb treatise on
"charismatic leadership". By studying General Frank Savage's conduct and actions, leaders can
experience the U.S. Army's charismatic leader paradigm.
Notes On The Film
This film was directed by Henry King and stars Gregory Peck, Hugh Marlowe, Gary Merrill
and Dean Jagger (Oscar, Best Supporting Actor).
Tales From Twelve O'clock High
Major Attila Bognar has written an excellent analysis of charismatic leadership as
reflected in this film. It makes an excellent accompaniment to the film for study groups or
individuals. We offer it a free download. The article is reprinted from the U.S. Army's Command and
General Staff School magazine, "Military Review".
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