What has happened in the years since Henry V’s speech to Westmoreland on St Crispin’s Day October 1415, that our leader have become a rabble, covetous of the trappings of office and not much concerned beyond the next game, financial year or election?
Where are the Henrys of today, those who will inspire us, and lead us into our daily Agincourt?
Are great leaders just a thing of yore, captured only in the text of battles fought? Where are our great Kings and Queens to emphasise justness, valour and the memory of triumph past?
Was it really that long ago that we were moved by the actions and words of Whitten, Deakin, Palfreyman and Packer. What has become of their eloquence, their charisma, their command?
Has their legacy of leadership been lost in the fog of doorstops and sound bites, of pressers and tweets?
Are those that are born to lead, unable? And those who are paid to unskilled or like Westmoreland, burdened with dismay?
Many who stand in front of us today have no wounds of war, no battle scars; no feats, no faith, no battle cry. Their focus, outliving each day; devoid of actions, antics or emphasis of claim!
Where is the honour, the plan of attack, why should we join them and at what cost?
When is our St Crispin’s day?
This is my call to arms, nay honour, for all of those who are called to lead.
Spare a thought for the anniversary of the battle of Agincourt and take the time to read Shakespeare’s Henry V, St. Crispin’s Day Speech.
Make time to view the past for its lessons and the future for its opportunities.
… And in the words of King Henry “But if it be a sin to covet honor, I am the most offending soul alive”.
Be honourable, deliver actions not excuses!
• Watch Kenneth Brannagh deliver the St Crispin’s Day speech …
