BUS FPX 3050 Assessment 1 Communication, Ethics, and a Command Decision

Student Name

Capella University

BUS-FPX3050 Fundamentals of Organizational Communication

Prof. Name

Date

Communication, Ethics, and a Command Decision

Part 1: Analysis of the Scenario

The outbreak of COVID-19 on the U.S.S. Theodore Roosevelt in April 2020 provides a significant opportunity to delve into ethical communication issues. However, the distinct context within the United States Navy introduces complexities that may limit the generalizability of lessons learned. The hierarchical structure of the military’s chain of command, while conventional, can be opaque to the public, yet it lies at the heart of this case. Thus, a comprehensive examination of the facts is crucial to fully evaluate the ethics involved.

It is now apparent that Captain Crozier directed his communication solely to Navy officers, including those of higher rank than his immediate superior, contrary to assertions made by Acting Navy Secretary Modly. Modly’s misrepresentation of the letter’s distribution and its contents, particularly regarding Crozier’s concerns and Rear Adm. Baker’s dismissal of them, highlights the ethical nuances at play (Kheel, 2020).

In bypassing Baker, Crozier’s actions do not appear unethical. While the chain of command serves organizational efficiency, it should not override ethical considerations, as emphasized by the Army War College (Piellusch, 2018). By disregarding Crozier’s concerns, Baker effectively pushed the issue into the public sphere. Consequently, Crozier’s decision to circumvent Baker seems justified, especially given the urgent health crisis aboard the ship.

BUS FPX 3050 Assessment 1 Communication, Ethics, and a Command Decision

Crozier’s letter itself demonstrates clear, solution-oriented communication, devoid of personal agendas or sensitive information. The absence of ethical concerns within the letter’s contents supports the notion that Crozier acted with integrity.

Regarding potential leaks to the press, there is no evidence suggesting Crozier engaged in such actions. Even if he had, in the absence of indications of ulterior motives, concerns about the ethics of public dissemination appear unfounded.

When comparing military and private sector standards, the higher ethical expectations in the military imply even fewer concerns in civilian contexts. Thus, the focus shifts to the disproportionate consequences faced by Crozier, driven by political motives, which stand as a more egregious ethical breach than any action by Crozier himself (Ignatius, 2020).

Part 2: Public Communication

In light of the unjust consequences faced by Captain Crozier, it is imperative to address the systemic issues hindering effective communication within the U.S. military. Recent events surrounding the U.S.S. Theodore Roosevelt reveal a troubling trend of punitive measures against those endeavoring to safeguard the health and safety of service members.

BUS FPX 3050 Assessment 1 Communication, Ethics, and a Command Decision

As a Navy captain deeply troubled by these developments, I implore national attention to the erosion of integrity within our institutions. The ordeal faced by Captain Crozier underscores the urgent need to shield our armed forces from political interference and uphold the principles of meritocracy and ethical conduct.

It is time to restore confidence in our institutions, ensuring that dedicated individuals like Captain Crozier can serve without fear of reprisal. The integrity of our military and the safety of our personnel depend on it.

References

Ignatius, D. (2020, April 6). Acting Navy chief fired Crozier for ‘panicking’ – and before Trump could intervene. The Washington Post. https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2020/04/05/acting-navy-chief-fired-crozier-panicking-before-trump-might-intervene/.

Kheel, R. (2020, April 16). Fired captain sent memo to fewer people than former Navy head alleged: report. The Hill. https://thehill.com/policy/defense/493192-fired-captain-sent-memo-to-fewer-people-than-former-navy-head-alleged-report.

Piellusch, M. (2018, September 6). IS THE ‘CHAIN OF COMMAND’ STILL MEANINGFUL? War Room – U.S. Army War College. https://warroom.armywarcollege.edu/articles/chain-of-command/.

BUS FPX 3050 Assessment 1 Communication, Ethics, and a Command Decision