Hornblower!

I've just been watching the film with Greg Peck and Virginia Mayo, and rattling good stuff it is too.
But what struck me more than anything, and it was a theme that ran through the books as well, was how much his men adored him and were prepared to follow him anywhere. They trusted his judgement and they knew he would lead them to victory - or at least damn close to it. As a result, they were prepared to give that bit extra of effort required to make it happen.
And I couldn't help contrast that leadership ( albeit fictional) with our present so-called leaders. They aren't leading us - they are driving and herding us like sheep, and mostly over a cliff.
They don't even elicit loyalty amongst their own.