According to military leadership principles, what are the two most critical responsibilities of a leader?

The two most critical responsibilities of a leader are mission accomplishment and the welfare of the soldiers. This choice emphasizes the dual focus that leaders must have in the military setting. Successfully completing the mission is paramount, as it ensures the tactical and strategic objectives of the military organization are met. However, equally important is the welfare of the soldiers, as a leader must care for their team members’ physical and mental well-being. Leaders who prioritize their soldiers’ welfare foster a positive environment, enhance morale, and promote resilience among their troops, which ultimately contributes to mission success.

The balance between achieving objectives and looking after the needs of personnel is a core tenet in military leadership, ensuring that while missions are pursued with vigor, the human element — the soldiers who carry out these missions — is always given appropriate attention and support. This commitment leads to more effective teams and a cohesive unit ready to face challenges.