“Miracle at the Midway” Book by Gordon Prange Report

Introduction

Honor, commitment, and courage are crucial pillars on which the ethics code of the Navy is built. Therefore, analyzing the specified elements closely is essential to the development of these qualities in Navy recruits. By scrutinizing the notions in question, one will recognize their weight and significance for a Navy leader and the rest of the participants involved. “Miracle at the Midway” by Gordon Prange highlights the significance of devotion to the Navy, the Chief Petty Officer community, an individual, and the Sailors. The story shows that with bravery, loyalty, and honor, the leader of a Navy can turn the tides of a battle and win against all odds.

Main body

The reading in question depicts the essential qualities of a Navy commander, as well as the Chief Petty Officer community, in a very accurate and profound manner. “Miracle at the Midway” pays especially close attention to the notion of honor, allowing readers to develop a vivid image of a member of a Navy driven by their sense of responsibility and an unshakable code of ethics. For instance, by pointing out that truth and honor were inseparably connected for a Navy officer, Prange set the foundation for decision-making for a Navy leader: “The truth held enough honor for a whole generation of sailors” (116). The portrayed image of devotion and ability to follow orders exactly is genuinely stunning.

The story also paints a very accurate picture of the notion of commitment that defines a soldier. The formidable courage that characterizes a Navy member and especially an effective leader is shown in all its glory in the narrative. Specifically, the author delineates a clear distinction between courage as an essential characteristic of an officer and the necessity to act in the best interests of the common goal: “Spruance knew the exact point where courage becomes damn-foolishness” (Prange 386). Therefore, Prange makes it abundantly clear that the notion of courage should stem from devotion to the military and not from the need to prove one’s individual worth.

Put differently, the author teaches that the well-being of civilians outweighs the decision to remain ethically impeccably. The described solution represents a profound perspective on the concept of Utilitarianism ethics. Therefore, “Miracle at Midway” serves not only as an important piece of history that has survived the test of time but also as a guide for a Navy leader and Navy members to gain essential professional characteristics and especially an appropriate code of ethics. Outlining the importance of honor and commitment for a Navy leader, the book has become more than a part of the historical narrative. Prange showed explicitly that, even when being outnumbered or being placed in very unfavorable circumstances, one can win a battle once equipped with a profound sense of honor and sufficient courage.

Conclusion

Shedding light on the phenomena of honor, bravery, and commitment, “Miracle at the Midway” by Gordon Prange examines the qualities that a Navy leader should exhibit in order to inspire soldiers and encourage them to follow the ethics code of the Navy. Delving into the details of the battle that happened in 1942, the book makes a profound impression on its readers by describing exemplary cases of leadership and responsibility in the Navy. The focus on the ethical aspect of decision-making and the development of qualities such as courage and loyalty makes the book a valuable resource for a leader willing to shape the attitudes of soldiers. “Miracle at the Midway” inspires with its analysis of the battle and proving that whether a miracle will happen is fully in control of a leader and their team members.

Work Cited

Prange, Gordon W. Miracle at Midway. Open Road Media, 2014.