If you're in people's faces all the time, they grow to disrespect you or take you for granted. Leaders must exude an aura of power, respect, and intimidation. If Commander Abrashoff tried his hands-on tactic for four or five years, it would wear thin. He would become a buddy to the soldiers, and they would lose respect for his authority as commander. He likely would sabotage his authority by being so chummy with his crew.
Diverse groups produce diverse thinking.
Those who rely on diverse people are more likely to innovate than those who rely on platoons of similar people. Employees who scoff at their company culture likely won't get very far. If you are a colorful person, you may have to mute your colors and demonstrate your unique thinking in different, clever ways. By melting into the environment and mimicking your peers, you show that you respect and agree with the company ethos. It's good to be different.