“We own this incident, and I take full responsibility,” stated John Horner, president and CEO of Easton Utilities, in response to the recent fuel spill that fouled the Bay Street Ponds. The incident was a shocking blow to the local environment and an embarrassing blunder for Easton Utilities. However, it was very refreshing to have a business CEO quickly and decisively admit to the problem AND take personal responsibility for it.
Unlike many business and government officials today, Mr. Horner didn’t deny, lie, delay, obfuscate, blame subordinates, or otherwise attempt to “pass the buck.” In my estimation, Horner’s honest admission of responsibility followed the examples set by President Truman, and Generals Eisenhower and Marshall. His response also exemplifies the US Army Command Policy (AR 600-20) that states: “Commanders are responsible for everything their command does or fails to do.”
Other business and government leaders would profit from reading and following the policy and Mr. Horner’s example!
Joseph Koper
Talbot County
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