Navigating the Seven Seas: Leadership Lessons of the First African American Father and Son to Serve at Top in the U.S. Navy

Two high-achieving African-Americans in the U.S. Navy share their leadership experiences over nearly sixty consecutive years of service. Melvin G. Williams Sr. served in the Navy from 1951 to 1978 with a final assignment as a Command Master Chief. His son, Melvin G. Williams Jr., served from 1978 to 2010 with a final assignment as Commander, U.S. Second Fleet. Their book describes how they navigated through the ranks by employing what they call the Seven Cs of leadership: Character, Competence, Courage, Commitment, Caring, Communicating, and Community. The authors contend that their leadership principles can be learned, practiced, and refined for any profession.