Sometimes it's just not appropriate for the leader to go into the field with the troops. After all, it's dangerous out there and you don't want your wisest strategic planner in the face of danger when they could be comfortably directing things from a safe distance. Captain Jean-Luc Picard exemplifies this eminently sensible approach.

Interestingly though, most roleplayers tend much more towards the Kirk side of the Picard-Kirk spectrum.

Transcript

Leia: Well, whatever the hell our plan is, you pilots need to get into space, pronto.
Leia: I'll lead the attack fleet.
General Dodonna: I shall serve as the primary liaison to coordinate action and response activity of our mobile asset inventory.
General Dodonna: All battle protocols and imperatives will be routed through my station for centralised redistribution and dissemination.
Leia: <sigh> I'm gonna have to veto that, General. Because I need you to... Do a thing. Which I'll explain later.
Luke: Hmm. I guess I'll lead the attack.
Wedge: Good idea. Do you want me to give you some advice on leading squadrons? I've led a few before.
Luke: Uh...
Wedge: As you know, it's not just about formation and tactics. You need total familiarity with everyone on your team. I'm sure you've studied the pilot profiles.
Luke: Actually...
Wedge: So you'd know I was next in line for leadership. But I'm sure you'll do great. I'm glad to be Red Two.
Wedge: Right behind you.
Luke: On an unrelated note: Do the fighters have rear shields?