On some level I agree; however, this article in particular is not a collection of virtue signals.
If I have failed to see how this is not the case, I would appreciate some examples.
Due to the second law of thermodynamics, all work is neverending wack-a-mole. That in of itself doesn't mean that the work is useless.
Virtue signalling is a good thing and an essential part of leadership.
Why do you see virtue signalling as a good thing? What good comes from empty posturing?
Leaders obviously aren’t required to personally do the things they ask you to do. An army where the general dies in battle isn’t a good army.
I extremely disagree. Leaders that don't lead by example aren't real leaders, but demagouges and deceivers. To become a general, you must first be a soldier.
That's not how generals work, they go to officer school, don't they?
Actually I don't think "virtue signalling" implies "doesn't do it themselves". Vegans who go around telling everyone they're vegan generally don't secretly eat meat.