A lack of composure, sometimes even panic under pressure, can spread like wildfire throughout an organization. In two thousand six i was serving in our rack as the director of air operations in the western sector of our rack. I was responsible for air support and medical evacuations for about 30 thousands marines and soldiers on the ground and about 200 aircraft. The one thing i remember that day, if you find yourself in a combat leadership situation, it's inevitable, when the pressure's on and lives are on the line, you will physically and emotionally feel the urge to panic. When that happens, take a deep breath, speak calmly and clearly, because if you don't, it will only get worse.