It is very easy in hindsight to analyse and judge Lt Col H Jones' actions on that fateful day, however I think you have to bear 2 things in mind: he gave up his life whilst serving his country in a selfless act and he was on the ground at the time knew the situation and made a courageous decision. Many of the heros of the past were actually people who you wouldn't chose as friends or even bosses - they are only human at the day.
Leaders should lead from the front, provided they can do the job without being a liability. For example a Sqn Cdr or Stn Cdr should be able to fill a role on ops competantly and if, due to his lack of recent experience, that means a Gp Capt co-pilot then so be it. He would be showing he is willing to take the risks without putting more risk and hardship on the guys at the coalface. It is only when they can experience the issues first hand that they really understand what their people are going through and do something about it.
Analyse what people do by all means to learn from peoples mistakes, but respect the sacrifice many of these people make.
GB2.