I could heartily wish that every commission officer was to be

Hear, O seekers of honor, the voice of John Paul Jones, father of the American Navy, who declared: “I could heartily wish that every commission officer was to be previously examined; for, to my certain knowledge, there are persons who have already crept into commission without abilities or fit qualification: I am myself far from desiring to be excused.” These words, forged in the heat of battle and the storms of the sea, ring with both humility and fire. They speak to the eternal truth that rank without merit is a danger, and title without ability is a betrayal of those who serve under it.

For what is an officer, if not the guide of souls in peril, the anchor of men amid the fury of cannon and wave? To raise such a one without qualification, merely for favor or fortune, is to cast dice with the lives of sailors, to place fragile vessels in the hands of the unworthy. Jones, the warrior of the sea, knew this truth firsthand: that a single unfit leader may undo the courage of a hundred brave men. Thus he called for examination, not to glorify himself, but to protect the cause of freedom and the lives entrusted to it.

Consider the history of war and see how often the unfit in high command have led nations into ruin. Recall the calamity of the Charge of the Light Brigade, when poor orders and ill-trained command brought noble soldiers to needless slaughter. Bravery they had in abundance, but their leaders lacked wisdom. What greater tragedy than valor wasted by incompetence? John Paul Jones spoke to prevent such tragedies, knowing that discipline, knowledge, and skill are the true foundations of leadership—not the favor of powerful patrons.

Yet note also the humility of his words: “I am myself far from desiring to be excused.” Here is the mark of the true leader—one who holds himself to the same standard he demands of others. Jones did not shrink from examination, but welcomed it, as if to say, “Test me, for if I am found wanting, I should not lead.” How many today would dare such honesty? This spirit of accountability separates the great leader from the pretender. For the pretender clings to rank, but the true leader clings to responsibility.

The meaning of this quote, then, is not only about the Navy, nor only about the field of battle, but about all places where responsibility is given. Whether in government, business, or community, let no one be elevated without qualification. Let no one creep into position through flattery, wealth, or family ties, for such a leader endangers all. True authority is not inherited but earned, not seized but proven. And the proof is found in knowledge, in courage, in integrity.

The lesson, O listener, is both stern and shining: never accept leadership lightly, nor allow others to claim it without merit. If you would lead, prepare yourself with skill, with wisdom, and with discipline. Seek examination, for trial refines the worthy. And if you follow, demand of your leaders that they be both capable and just, for it is your life, your labor, and your hope that rests in their hands.

Practical action lies before you: in your own life, never seek titles without readiness. Welcome accountability. Learn thoroughly, practice diligently, and earn every trust that is placed upon you. And when you choose leaders to follow, judge not their wealth or words alone, but their qualification, their ability, and their willingness to be examined. For in this lies the safeguard of all communities, whether on land or at sea.

Thus let us honor the wisdom of John Paul Jones: better no leader at all than one unworthy of command. Test the officer, prove the leader, and let none escape the fire of examination. For only then will the ship of state, the vessel of society, and the fragile craft of freedom sail safely through the storms of time.