Page 49 - FDCC Flyer Spring 2022

FDCC Pillars
Jennifer E. Johnsen
I just finished reading a great book - TheSplendidand the Vile, by Erik Larson. The book tells the story of Winston Churchill
during the 12-month blitz of the United Kingdom during World War II. While Larson’s central theme
is Churchill’s ability to galvanize
a nation to persevere despite the onslaught of horrific nightly air raids, he also provides insight into the complex relationship between Churchill and President Roosevelt
- a special relationship cultivated over an extended period of time was critical to the outcome of the war.
How did these leaders, separated by a vast ocean, without the benefit of Face Time, e-mail or any other high-tech, and in the midst of a devastating world war, develop what has been characterized as “the most celebrated political relationship in modern history?” Well, they did it the way we all
do – by connecting with and, importantly, listening to each other. Here is what I learned. Over the course of six years, Churchill and Roosevelt exchanged nearly two thousand letters and cables. “They talked, dined and drank together, and they stayed up late, following Churchill’s habit.” They mixed work with pleasure, and they enjoyed each other. They “cultivated each other’s friendship, not insincerely but as the ultimate act of diplomacy.”
Roosevelt, in a long letter to Churchill sent after the two spent Christmas together in 1941,
This photo was taken at the Annual Meeting at The Greenbrier last summer – and truly says it all. These young people, children of Federation members, are right in the thick of things – connecting with each other, making new friends and yes, developing relationships.
observed “it is fun to be in the
same decade with you.” Reflecting on their relationship, Churchill stated “meeting Franklin Roosevelt was like opening your first bottle
of champagne; knowing him was like drinking it.” Although they
did not always agree, Churchill
and Roosevelt developed a deep respect and affection for each other,
benefitting not just themselves but those who relied upon them as leaders.
While we may not be world leaders, Federation members are defense leaders. And, like Churchill and Roosevelt, we benefit from strong, fulfilling relationships. It is not an overstatement to say relationships are the lifeblood of the Federation.
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spring | federation flyer 46