Leadership is a necessity in times of war and adversity, and few understand this better than retired U.S. Air Force Col. Leon “Lee” Ellis. For him, leadership goes beyond authority and decision-making—it is a profound commitment to resilience, selfless service, and inspiring others, even in the face of overwhelming adversity.
Ellis’s journey is one of profound transformation. A young aviator with dreams of flight, he was thrust into a trial of suffering and emerged as a beacon of hope and guidance for countless others. Captured during the Vietnam War and held for more than five years in the notorious “Hanoi Hilton,” Ellis endured conditions designed to break even the strongest spirits. Yet, instead of succumbing to despair, he became a pillar of support for his fellow prisoners, embodying honor, unity, and perseverance.
Col. Ellis recently visited Misawa Air Base, Japan, to share his remarkable story of resilience, leadership, and service. A former Vietnam War fighter pilot and prisoner of war (POW), Ellis captivated audiences with stories of survival and the leadership lessons he gleaned during one of history’s harshest crucibles.
Raised in rural Georgia, Ellis embraced the values of hard work, faith, and patriotism. Drawn to aviation, he pursued a career in the Air Force. In 1967, at just 25 years old, Ellis was flying a combat mission over North Vietnam when his plane was shot down. Captured within minutes, Ellis began a harrowing journey to Hanoi, where he endured bombings by friendly forces and countless challenges before his eventual imprisonment.
Life as a POW was marked by alternating monotony and moments of sheer terror. Despite brutal conditions—including torture, isolation, and deprivation—Ellis found strength in unity with his fellow captives. Through covert communication methods like tapping codes on the walls, they maintained morale and provided mutual support.
“In those camps, I learned that pain purifies, and tomorrow is another day,” Ellis said, reflecting on the profound lessons that emerged from his traumatic time as a POW. “It wasn’t just about surviving; it was about finding purpose in the pain and hope in the possibility of a better tomorrow. We leaned on each other and learned that even in the darkest moments, there’s always a way forward.”
Capt. Darryl Scarver, 35th Fighter Wing commander’s action group director, said Ellis’s message resonated deeply with Misawa’s Airmen.
“Col. Ellis’s story reminds us of the profound strength found in unity and purpose,” Scarver said. “He embodies the resilience we strive to instill in every Airman—a resilience that transforms adversity into an opportunity to lead.”
Throughout his years in captivity, Ellis uncovered the true essence of leadership: building trust, uplifting others, and preserving a sense of purpose even in the face of overwhelming adversity. The unwavering leadership of his fellow POWs profoundly shaped his understanding of life, duty, and service.
During his visit, Ellis urged Airmen to cultivate self-awareness and lead with integrity. He shared a leadership framework rooted in character, courage, and commitment.
“Good leaders are confident, yet humble,” Ellis said. “You don’t have to be perfect, but you must be willing to learn and adapt. Acknowledge your weaknesses, value your team, and commit to doing the right thing every day.”
Scarver emphasized the importance of this approach, pointing out how it fosters resilience, trust, and a commitment to excellence within the ranks, qualities essential for effective leadership at every level.
“One of the most powerful lessons Col. Ellis shared was that leadership is not about perfection; it’s about dedication to growth and service,” Scarver said. “That’s a mindset we want every leader at Misawa to embrace.”
Ellis returned home in 1973, his story capturing the nation’s attention. He resumed his Air Force career, earning prestigious awards, including the Silver Star and the Legion of Merit. Yet his post-military work ultimately defined his legacy.
As a leadership consultant, author, and speaker, Ellis draws on his POW experiences to inspire individuals and organizations. He advocates for mental health initiatives, transition assistance, and community reintegration for veterans. Through his mentoring, he emphasizes that true leadership is about serving others.
“It’s not about being in charge,” Ellis said. “It’s about taking care of those in your charge.”
His words echo the leadership principles that define the Air Force’s mission.
“Col. Ellis’s approach to leadership aligns with the core values we uphold in the Air Force,” Scarver said. “Integrity, service, and excellence are not just words—they’re principles we live by, and Col. Ellis exemplifies them.”
Today, Col. Leon Ellis’s life serves as an enduring reminder that adversity can forge character and leadership. From his darkest days in captivity to his role as a mentor and motivator, Ellis exemplifies the power of resilience and the impact of leading with honor.
“Leadership is not about rank, status, or even success,” Ellis said. “It’s about the impact we have on others and the legacy we leave behind.”
Col. Leon Ellis’s legacy is clear: a life devoted to service, a message of resilience, and an unyielding commitment to leading with honor.
