Leaders To Sea : USS Somerset

USS Somerset LPD-25

Still reflecting on one of the most profound experiences I’ve had — being invited aboard the USS Somerset as part of the “Leaders to Sea” program, hosted by Vice Admiral Brendan Mclane , Commander, Naval Surface Forces.

We spent the day on an active U.S. Navy warship, witnessing life at sea, the precision of command, and the unwavering commitment of those who serve.

Did you know? The USS Somerset is named in honor of the heroic passengers of United Flight 93 and Somerset County, PA, where the plane went down on 9/11. Being on this vessel — built from the same steel that once stood tall in NYC — was profoundly humbling.

But what stayed with me most was a quiet conversation with Commanding Officer, Captain Andrew Koy the ship’s commanding officer — a leader who places his crew above all else. Servant leadership at its core.

There’s something deeply admirable about military culture:

When you say you’ll show up — you SHOW UP.

Because lives depend on it.

Words are your bond.

That’s how I’ve tried to build and lead teams over the past 25 years — and how I will continue to aspire to lead. If I say I’m going to do something, I do everything I can to follow through. And if I can’t — I do my best to show up with clarity, humility, and the respect to say so.

Some may call that “blunt,” “intense,” or even “aggressive” — and yes, I’ve heard it before. But over time, I’ve come to see it differently: Integrity, follow-through, and showing up — especially when it’s inconvenient — aren’t just leadership traits. They’re rare commitments. And they’re ones I’ll continue to hold myself accountable to, every day.

It’s not about the bells and whistles.

Not about who you know.

It’s about having that deep, unwavering conviction to set the example.

To show up with relentless enthusiasm.

To lead with deep empathy.

To be compassionate, yet firm. Courageous, yet grounded.

That’s the kind of leadership I admire.

And I’m grateful for moments like this — to witness and learn from those who embody it, every single day.

Leaders To Sea