Surf When You Can

Brett Crozier's "Surf When You Can: Lessons in Life, Loyalty, and Leadership from a Maverick Navy Captain" offers an intimate look at leadership under pressure through the eyes of a naval officer who became unexpectedly famous in 2020. As captain of the USS Theodore Roosevelt aircraft carrier, Crozier made headlines when he sent a letter pleading for help as COVID-19 spread through his ship, a decision that cost him his command but earned him widespread respect from his crew and the public.

The book's title comes from a simple yet profound philosophy that Crozier embraced during his naval career: take advantage of opportunities when they present themselves, whether literal waves in the ocean or moments in life that deserve attention and presence. This metaphor runs throughout the memoir, serving as a framework for understanding how Crozier approached both his personal life and his professional responsibilities.

Crozier traces his journey from his childhood and early fascination with aviation through his decades-long naval career. The narrative covers his training as a naval aviator, his progression through various ranks and assignments, and the relationships that shaped his understanding of leadership. The author writes with candor about his experiences, including deployments, the demands of military life on family relationships, and the weight of responsibility that comes with commanding thousands of sailors.

The central event of the book remains the COVID-19 outbreak aboard the Theodore Roosevelt in early 2020. Crozier provides detailed context about the situation he faced: a deadly virus spreading in the confined spaces of an aircraft carrier, limited options for quarantine, and a crew looking to their captain for protection. His decision to send a letter requesting assistance, which was subsequently leaked to the media, is explored from his perspective. He examines the thought process behind his actions, the immediate consequences of his relief from command, and his reflections on whether he would make the same choice again.

What distinguishes this memoir from typical military leadership books is Crozier's willingness to discuss vulnerability and the human dimensions of command. He writes about the loneliness of leadership positions, the difficulty of making decisions with incomplete information, and the tension between following protocol and doing what feels morally necessary. These themes resonate beyond military contexts, offering insights applicable to anyone in positions of responsibility.

The book also serves as a tribute to the sailors who serve in the Navy. Crozier consistently emphasizes that leadership in the military is fundamentally about taking care of people. His descriptions of life aboard an aircraft carrier help civilians understand the unique environment where thousands of personnel live and work in close quarters for months at a time. The dedication and professionalism of enlisted sailors and junior officers receive considerable attention throughout the narrative.

Crozier addresses the concept of loyalty from multiple angles: loyalty to subordinates, to the mission, to the institution, and to core values. He grapples with questions about what happens when these loyalties appear to conflict, and how leaders navigate competing obligations. His handling of the Theodore Roosevelt crisis becomes a case study in prioritizing immediate human welfare while accepting potential professional consequences.

The writing style is straightforward and accessible, avoiding military jargon where possible and explaining necessary technical terms. Crozier writes as someone who has spent considerable time reflecting on his experiences rather than simply recounting events chronologically. The tone remains measured even when discussing his controversial removal from command and the public attention that followed.

Some readers may find the book most valuable for its practical leadership lessons, while others will be drawn to the personal story and the ethical questions it raises. The memoir does not attempt to settle all debates about whether Crozier's actions were correct according to military protocol, but it does provide essential context for understanding the human dimensions of that moment.

"Surf When You Can" ultimately presents leadership as an ongoing practice of balancing competing demands, staying true to core principles, and maintaining focus on the people who depend on those in command. Crozier's experience offers a compelling example of how one leader navigated an unprecedented crisis, made a controversial decision, and continued to reflect on the principles that guided his career. The book contributes meaningfully to discussions about leadership, institutional loyalty, and the responsibilities that come with authority in any field.