Marines who have paid the ultimate price by giving their lives for fellow Marines and the mission have best exemplified the “sacrificial mode” of Servant Leadership. It is embedded within the context of the core values of the Marine Corp’s rich heritage of personal sacrifice.
“The servant leader is first a person who has a natural desire to serve, not necessarily to lead. This model is also considered under the general school of leader and follower theories, but does not require established position or authority. This leader has a demonstrated record of selflessness, preservation of organizational goals, and concern for people within the organization. Although the leader may display qualities of other models, they are clearly willing to forego personal concerns, career concerns and even concern for their own life in preference of accomplishing the mission and taking care of people.” (Greenleaf, 1991) – United States Marine Corps Lejeune Leadership Institute – Leadership Models