Leadership at the Tip of the Spear

Jameson “J.R.” Johnson

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This year, I had the privilege of attending Special Operations Forces (SOF) Week in Tampa, Florida—a convergence of the global special operations community that evolved from a showcase of cutting-edge technology into a reaffirmation of what makes SOF truly exceptional: its people.

I was reminded that the true strength of the SOF community lies not in technology, but in leadership. Representatives from United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) stood alongside elite counterparts from Europe, the Pacific, Latin America, East Asia, and Africa. The impressive displays of technology were only part of the story. The deeper narrative was about leadership—authentic, grounded, and visionary leadership that remains the bedrock of special operations success.

With over four decades of experience inside and around the Department of Defense, I’ve worked with extraordinary leaders. Yet what I encountered at SOF Week 2025 was exceptional. I spoke with individuals ranging from battalion commanders to the Secretary of Defense, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the USSOCOM Commander, and other key leaders.

These were not figureheads. They were humble, mission-focused leaders with an unwavering commitment to their people. Whether in formal discussions or chance hallway conversations, I encountered consistent depth of experience, integrity, and care for the force. Leadership, I realized, remains the decisive advantage in special operations.

The Human Factor

This people-first ethos is embedded in SOF culture. SOF culture has long recognized that technology can enable, but never replace, human judgment and resilience. At SOF Week, this ethos was unmistakable. Leadership excellence was not the exception; it was the standard.

The U.S. special operations community is undergoing a generational shift, guided by leaders who are both guardians of tradition and pioneers of future capabilities. Their professionalism and shared sense of purpose left me encouraged about the direction and future of the enterprise.