That's a great story and lesson. One of my proudest times as a operations manager was running Ops in the US and Canada, (from Canada.) When the oil business stalled in the US, I brought my guys up north, one a time. 3 of 6 were ex Marines, and I loved them. Beautiful men, fiercely loyal, 100% dependable. After we all moved on from the company, they each left remarks on my LinkedIn that I still value. Much to the lesson you shared here.

You've got to have broad shoulders as a leader and make sure they know you have their back, as much as they have your own.