While on a mission with friendly Iraqi forces, the chaotic environment of war led to a misinterpretation of enemy forces and resulted in one of the worst scenarios of war, a blue-on-blue (friendly fire on friendly forces). It resulted in the death of an Iraqi soldier and a wounded SEAL.

Afterwards, in a debrief meeting, the master chief wanted to know who was to blame for this horrible situation. Some of the members of Jocko’s team stepped up and claimed responsibility. After a few minutes, Jocko had heard enough. There was only one person to blame said Jocko.

Himself.

As the senior man of the operation, he claimed that he was responsible for everything that happened to him and his men below him. It was a heavy burden, but it is the burden that leaders must carry.

Although taking full responsibility could have possibly resulted in Jocko being fired, it was the right thing to do . In hindsight, he notes that his decision to take full ownership actually led to his boss and team trusting him more.

It showed that, as a leader, Jocko could recognize his mistakes, could be humble, and was willing to take a hit for his team before anyone else was held responsible. By taking extreme ownership, Jocko was able to succeed in leading some of the most elite soldiers in the world and retired after twenty incredible years of service.