Leaders are Readers Book Review: "Fighting Spirit: The Profession of Arms in Canada"

"Fighting Spirit: The Profession of Arms in Canada" stands as a new capstone doctrine publication for the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). Published in 2024 under the auspices of the Chief of the Defence Staff and the Canadian Defence Academy, this publication represents a comprehensive guide to understanding the profession of arms in Canada. It is essential reading for anyone involved in the Canadian military profession, providing an in-depth exploration of the values, ethos, and professional standards expected of Canadian military personnel.

Organization

The book is organized into several chapters, each delving into critical aspects of military service and professionalism:

1. Security in an Uncertain World: This chapter sets the stage by discussing the role of the military in safeguarding national security amidst global instability and emerging threats. It emphasizes the importance of government in protecting citizens and outlines the evolution of the military profession.
2. The Purpose and Composition of Professions: Here, the concept of a profession is defined, highlighting the attributes that distinguish professions from other occupations. The chapter explores the fundamental imperatives and professional attributes necessary for maintaining the credibility and trust of a profession.
3. The Canadian Profession of Arms: This chapter focuses on the unique characteristics of the Canadian military profession. It discusses the responsibilities, expertise, ethos, and identity of military professionals in Canada, emphasizing their commitment to the defense of national interests.
4. The Canadian Armed Forces Ethos: This section delves into the values and principles that underpin the CAF ethos. It examines how these values are internalized and applied by military professionals, stressing the importance of trust, character, competence, and commitment.
5. The Organizing and Functioning of the Profession of Arms in Canada: This chapter outlines the structure and functioning of the Canadian military profession. It discusses civil-military relations, the professional construct, and the impact of fundamental imperatives on military expertise, identity, ethos, and responsibility.
6. Self-Regulation: The Engine of Adaptation: The final chapter addresses the importance of self-regulation in the military profession. It covers personnel management, leadership, professional development, and the institution's policies and programs aimed at sustaining the profession.

Importance as a Capstone Doctrine

The significance of "Fighting Spirit" as a capstone piece of doctrine cannot be overstated. It follows in the footsteps of previous foundational documents such as "Duty with Honour: The Profession of Arms in Canada" (2003) and "The Canadian Armed Forces Ethos: Trusted to Serve" (2022). By synthesizing and expanding upon these earlier works, "Fighting Spirit" establishes a renewed commitment to professionalism within the CAF. It emphasizes the need for a Canadian Armed Forces that not only possesses the necessary technical and tactical prowess of a 21st century military, but also embodies the highest ethical standards and values reflective of Canadian society.

The Importance of Fighting Spirit

Central to the doctrine is the concept of fighting spirit, which is portrayed as the cornerstone of military effectiveness. Fighting spirit is defined as an attitude of determination, perseverance, and grit that must be inherent in all members of the profession of arms. It is not about seeking conflict but about the unwavering commitment to overcoming challenges and obstacles in pursuit of mission success. This fighting spirit is what enables military personnel to maintain their resolve in the face of adversity, danger and uncertainty both on the battlefield and in garrison, ensuring that they remain focused and effective in their duties.

Having a fighting spirit entails willingly taking on challenging and sometimes dangerous tasks, maintaining the will to succeed and demonstrating grit in the face of adversity.

The Essence of Professionalism

Professionalism is a recurring theme throughout "Fighting Spirit." In general terms, professionalism is the conduct, aims, and qualities that characterize a profession or professional person. It involves adherence to a set of standards, behaviors, and ethical guidelines that ensure the integrity and effectiveness of a profession. In the context of the profession of arms, professionalism encompasses the following attributes:

• Responsibility: The assigned role, function, and legitimate boundaries that define the profession.
• Expertise: The systematically acquired body of knowledge, skills, abilities, and competencies required to perform military duties effectively.
• Ethos: The ethical framework and values that guide the behavior and decisions of military professionals.
• Identity: The sense of belonging and commitment to the profession and its values.

"Fighting Spirit" emphasizes that military professionals must embody these attributes to maintain the trust and respect of the Canadian public and their peers. The CAF's ethos, rooted in Canadian values, is essential for guiding the actions and decisions of military personnel in both peacetime and conflict.

Simply put, the profession of arms is weakened when military professionals do not pursue the highest standards of expertise and fall short of the ethical principles, military values and professional expectations demanded by the military ethos.

Unique Nature of Military Service

"Fighting Spirit" delves deeply into the unique nature of military service, highlighting the distinct responsibilities and expectations placed upon military professionals. It underscores the notion that serving in the military is not merely a job but a calling that requires a profound commitment to the defense of Canada and its interests, including the concept of unlimited liability. The doctrine articulates the dual roles of military personnel as both warriors and peacekeepers, capable of engaging in combat while adhering to strict ethical and legal standards.

Unlimited liability means the legal requirement for CAF members to accept that, in the process of their duties, they may have to risk their lives or the lives of those they lead to achieve success in the military missions assigned by the Government of Canada.

Military Service: Not for Everyone

The publication is candid about the fact that military service is not for everyone. It stresses that there are specific skills, commitments, and capabilities required of all members of the CAF. These include physical fitness, mental resilience, technical proficiency, and an unwavering dedication to duty. The doctrine makes it clear that those who choose to serve must be prepared to accept the inherent risks and responsibilities that come with the profession. This realism serves to reinforce the respect and admiration due to those who undertake such service.

Military service is not an inherent right but rather is contingent upon meeting specific criteria, including medical, educational, cognitive, physical, conduct and citizenship or permanent residency requirement. - Fighting Spirit.

Core Values and Commitment

Throughout "Fighting Spirit," there are numerous references to the core values that underpin military service. These include character, competence, and commitment, which are described as the pillars of trustworthiness in the profession of arms. The doctrine emphasizes that military professionals must embody these values in their daily conduct, continually striving for excellence and integrity. The commitment to lifelong learning, professional development, and the pursuit of mastery in their craft is portrayed as essential for maintaining the credibility and effectiveness of the CAF.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "Fighting Spirit: The Profession of Arms in Canada" is a critical piece of Canadian military doctrine that encapsulates the ethos, values, and professional standards of the Canadian Armed Forces. It serves as a comprehensive guide for Canadian soldiers, sailors and air force personnel, outlining the expectations and responsibilities that come with serving in the Canadian military. The emphasis on fighting spirit, the unique nature of military service, and the need for unwavering commitment and ethical conduct make this publication an indispensable resource for anyone involved in the profession of arms. As a capstone doctrine, it reaffirms the CAF's dedication to professionalism and excellence, ensuring that it remains a trusted and respected institution within Canadian society.