What attributes make a man? Depends on the man. My dad was a strong man and always took charge. We looked to him to solve all our problems. He was quite tough in many respects.
Tough is good. I believe a man should have the ability to stand up, take responsibility for himself and his actions. Of course, that depends on his upbringing. By and large, I think the role model in a small child's life sets their personality into adulthood.
Steve McGarrett's father was a well respected member of the Honolulu Police. In my version of Steve’s back story, young Steve watched his dad strap on his gun before work, kiss his mom goodbye and walk out the door thinking how long it might be before he could spend time with him again. He watched his mom hold down the fort as his dad worked well into the night, sometimes not coming home for two days straight. Steve was the little man of the house on those days. What kind of man would young Steve become? He would become a Navy SEAL.
From viewing the Hawaii Five-0 pilot, I can see that Steve McGarrett doesn't exactly fit the Navy SEAL personal profile based on a 1992-1993 study by the U.S. Navy.
SEALs scored lower in Neuroticism and Agreeableness, average in Openness, and higher in Extraversion and Conscientiousness [compared to adult male norms for five broadly defined domains]. SEALs seek excitement and dangerous environments, but are otherwise stable, calm, and rarely reckless or impulsive. *
The New Steve McGarrett is quite reckless and impulsive. Yet, the foundation of his character is based on the Navy SEALs creed.
The Navy SEAL Creed
In times of war and uncertainty there is a special breed of Warrior ready to answer our Nation’s call. A common man with uncommon desires forged by adversity he stands alongside America’s finest Special Operation Forces to serve his Country, the American people, and protect their Way of Life. I am that Man!My Trident is a symbol of honor and heritage bestowed upon me by the Heroes that have gone before and embodies the trust of those I am sworn to protect. By wearing the Trident I accept the responsibility of my chosen profession and it is a privilege that I must earn every day.My loyalty to Country and Team is beyond reproach. I humbly serve as a Guardian to my fellow Americans always ready to defend those who are unable to defend themselves. I do not advertise the nature of my work or seek recognition for my actions. I voluntarily accept the inherent hazards of my profession placing the welfare and security of others before my own.I serve with honor on and off the battlefield. The ability to control my emotions and my actions regardless of circumstances sets me apart from other men. Uncompromising integrity is my standard. My character and honor are steadfast. My Word is my Bond.We expect to lead and be lead. In the absence of Orders I will take charge, lead my Teammates, and accomplish the mission. I lead by example in all situations. I will NEVER Quit!I persevere and thrive on adversity. My Nation expects me to be physically harder and mentally stronger than my enemies. If knocked down I will get back up every time! I will draw on every remaining ounce of strength to protect my Teammates and accomplish the mission. I am NEVER out of the fight!We demand discipline. We expect innovation. The lives of my Teammates and the success of our mission depend on me, my technical skill, tactical proficiency, and attention to detail. My training is NEVER complete!We train for War and fight to win. I stand ready to bring the full spectrum of combat power to bear in order to achieve my mission and the goals established by my Country. Execution of my duties will be swift and violent when required, yet guided by the principle that I serve to defend.Brave men have fought and died building the proud tradition and fear of reputation that I am bound to uphold. In the worst of conditions the legacy of my Teammates steadies my resolve and silently guides my every deed.I will NOT fail!
This is the resolve of a resolute, tough, proud, steely eyed man. Now, ignore the chain of command, break the rules of conduct, throw in a sarcastic partner to play off of and you have the new Steve McGarrett.
This really is a lot to live up too (a heavy load for any man's shoulders).....but it just make me love the character more!
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