Leadership Module Final – Adolf Eichmann

LAS 497AErin Walton

Adolf Eichmann 1906-1962

• Full name: Otto Adolf Eichmann

• A fundamental organizer and instigator in the Holocaust

• Charged as a main culprit in organizing the death and deportation of many Jews.

Eichmann, when confronted with the various war crimes he was charged with, took a very interesting defense. He stated that he was simply “doing his duty” as a soldier. The concept became a fascination to many, as the thought of something so terrible being a “job” disturbed the people. Eichmann was convicted of his crimes and was executed. To date, Eichmann is the only man ever sentenced to death in Israel.

If you find it difficult to imagine someone like Eichmann, with no remorse, who believed he was purely acting on the best interests

of the people, perhaps you should watch “A Few Good Men”

“A Few Good Men” tells the story of two Marines charged with the murder of a fellow Marine. Ultimately we find out that their comrade was killed only after they were ordered to perform a hazing ritual on him, called a Code Red. But, does this excuse them from the consequence? Does it make it morally ‘okay’? After all…they were only doing their jobs, right?

Drawing Parallels between Characters

• Held the rank of Lt. Colonel• Stubborn• Born leader and military

man• No sense of moral justice• Overwhelming “Sense of

duty”

• Held the rank of Colonel• Strong willed, stubborn• Respected Leader• Career military man • Looks at the ‘bigger picture’• Doesn’t display guilt

In this scene, Colonel Jessup is confronted by Lieutenant Kaffee. You can see he eventually admits to his ordering the Code Red.

He believes he has done what is right.

***This clip contains adult language.

The result?

The two Marines were eventually acquitted of the murder charge, however they were found Guilty of “Conduct Unbecoming a United States Marine” and were dishonorably discharged.

One Marine does not understand the charge, and is confused as to why he got in trouble for following orders.

The second Marine responds very poignantly…

So, what do you think?

• Is murder always murder? Is it ever allowed or should it be condoned?

• Do you see Eichmann/Jessup’s point-of-view in regards to their decision? Do you understand their position?

• In hindsight, everything seems clear. But in the moment things are not always as simple. Do you think that each man did the best they could, within the limited scope of the impact they were having?