A lot of people took to the podium on March 26, 2024.
But in the days that followed, leadership showed up where it mattered most. Out of view.
When a massive container ship struck and collapsed the Francis Scott Key Bridge, the Port Of Baltimore, a critical hub of American commerce, came to a grinding halt.
In an instant, the supply chain in Maryland and across the eastern seaboard shifted.
Autos.
Heavy equipment.
Defense logistics.
Thousands of workers whose livelihoods depend on constant flow. Billions in economic activity suddenly at risk.
This was not just an infrastructure failure.
It was a national logistics crisis with real economic consequences.
While cameras rolled and public statements were delivered, a different kind of leadership went to work. Quietly. Immediately. Relentlessly.
At the center of that effort was Scott Spellmon, then Chief of Engineers and Commanding General of the US Army Corps of Engineers, responsible for restoring safety, navigability, and confidence under extreme pressure.
He led the unified effort to clear the channel, coordinate across agencies, and move with urgency without sacrificing safety.
This is command leadership at its highest level.
✔️ Calm under pressure
✔️ Precision amid chaos
✔️ Execution over optics
✔️ Accountability without applause
The work was complex and dangerous. Debris removal. Channel clearance. Worker safety. Coordination across federal, state, local, and private sector partners. All with no margin for error and no time to waste.
Most people will never see how close systems like this come to failure. I know how quickly disruptions ripple, because I built a company in the supply chain management space.
They will also never see how much depends on leaders who do not step into the spotlight, but step forward when it matters most.
This is the 7th post in my series recognizing William Webster Profiles in Leadership honorees, leaders who embody integrity, service, and responsibility under extraordinary circumstances.
I also want to continue recognizing Lynn Mattice, whose vision and commitment made this awards program possible and whose leadership ensures these stories are told. And thank Philip Niedermair “The price of Liberty is eternal vigilance.” for the invitation to this wonderful event.
Real leadership is not always visible. But its impact is undeniable.
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