GET INVOLVED
At the outset of the Battle of Cedar Creek, the Union commander, Major General Philip Sheridan (no relation), was 20 miles away, talking about administrative matters. The Confederates, under Jubal Early had surprised Sheridan's forces and driven them from their camps, causing a dramatic retreat. Early's men, ill equipped and hungry, looted the Union camps, losing their discipline.
Sheridan galloped towards the front, turning around the retreating men, reforming units and eventually leading a successful counter-attack, routing Early's men and giving Lincoln a victory that helped ensure his re-election.
When things go wrong, leaders need to get involved personally and drive the recovery.