Keeping command present without stifling subordinate initiative

Once a formation was underway and its officers understood their jobs, the senior commander could do harm by continually intervening. Micromanagement encouraged subordinates to wait for instructions and weakened their ability to deal with unexpected situations. Vian's role during the Sicily passage was therefore partly to sustain morale, watch for problems, and provide reassurance while leaving routine work to the officers responsible. When an escort captain reported capturing a carrier pigeon and requested instructions, Vian replied with a joke about questioning it in 'pigeon English'. The exchange illustrates how a commander could remain engaged with the force without taking over subordinate decisions.