Two high-achieving African Americans in the U.S. Navy share their leadership experiences over nearly sixty consecutive years of service. Melvin G. Williams Sr. served in the Navy from 1951 to 1978 with a final assignment as a Command Master Chief. His son, Melvin G. Williams Jr., served from 1978 to 2010 with a final assignment as Commander, U.S. Second Fleet. Their book describes how they navigated through the ranks by employing what they call the "Seven Cs" of leadership: Character, Competence, Courage, Commitment, Caring, Communicating, and Community. The authors contend that their leadership principles can be learned, practiced, and refined for any profession.