I am currently reading "5 Years to Freedom" by James N. Rowe. Do you have any suggested "must reads" before I commission next May?

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 13 May 2016 21:29:16 -0400

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 13 at 2016 9:33 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 13 May 2016 21:33:19 -0400

Do you know what branch?

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 13 at 2016 9:33 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 13 May 2016 21:33:41 -0400

Extreme Ownership
Gates of Fire
Lions of Kandahar
Not necessarily in that order, just giving you some options.

Response by CPO Joseph Grant made May 13 at 2016 9:40 PM

CPO Joseph Grant — Fri, 13 May 2016 21:40:46 -0400

Miracle at Midway. Yes, I know it's Navy but there are so many leadership lessons in that work. Then there's Thunder Below. You'll see how a change in leadership style made an unsuccessful Submarine crew very, very successful.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made May 13 at 2016 9:41 PM

CSM Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 13 May 2016 21:41:03 -0400

Response by SSG Roger Ayscue made May 13 at 2016 9:55 PM

SSG Roger Ayscue — Fri, 13 May 2016 21:55:49 -0400

Yes
You must read "Service" by Marcus Luttrell and "the Soldier's Load and the Mobility of the Nation" by SLA Marshall.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 13 at 2016 9:56 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 13 May 2016 21:56:48 -0400

Unforgiving Minute by Craig Mullaney was one of the best pieces of professional development I had as a cadet. It's an officers story from his time at west point , through his time in Afghanistan as a captain, along with his lessons learned. Great read.

Response by SFC John Hill made May 13 at 2016 11:13 PM

SFC John Hill — Fri, 13 May 2016 23:13:13 -0400

I thought this was a good read. The Forgotten Soldier (1965), by Guy Sajer, (originally published in French) about a young Frenchman, impressed by the prowess of the German military during the invasion of France in early WWII, he then joined the German Army and spent the war on the Eastern Front and made it home to France after the war. I have since learned it is mandatory reading for USMA students.

Response by SSgt Mark Lines made May 13 at 2016 11:14 PM

SSgt Mark Lines — Fri, 13 May 2016 23:14:12 -0400

"Follow Me: The Human Element in Leadership, Vol 1-3" by retired US Army General Aubrey S. Newman. They are his collected articles for "The Army Magazine". The books are short but contain lessons in leadership that apply to both Officers and Enlisted. They are out of print, but I they should be available in your post's library.

Response by Maj John Bell made May 13 at 2016 11:33 PM

Maj John Bell — Fri, 13 May 2016 23:33:11 -0400

Small Unit Leadership by Dandridge Malone.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 14 at 2016 12:06 AM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 14 May 2016 00:06:03 -0400

Especially since you are in the Army you need to read "Conversations with Major Dick Winters" (of Band of Brothers fame if you didnt know) as well as read Band of Brothers. Two of my favorite books that really shape what i feel a leader should be

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 14 at 2016 12:07 AM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 14 May 2016 00:07:28 -0400

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 14 at 2016 3:09 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 14 May 2016 03:09:01 -0400

Logic of Failure
Thinking Fast, Slow
Blink

Anything that helps you think on a different level.

Response by PO1 Tony Holland made May 14 at 2016 4:17 AM

PO1 Tony Holland — Sat, 14 May 2016 04:17:43 -0400

"About Face" by Colonel David Hackworth

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made May 14 at 2016 4:45 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 14 May 2016 04:45:21 -0400

Read Hammerhead Six by CPT Ronald Fry. Great 2003-4, insights into Special Forces mission of Foreign Development, in the Afgan environment. Some team dynamics, intro to the quality of NG SF soldiers, challenges of 'working' higher HAs, and building rapport with everybody. Requirement for USAF to retain A-10s. Did Oppresso Liber!

Response by Sgt Tom Cunnally made May 14 at 2016 5:46 AM

Sgt Tom Cunnally — Sat, 14 May 2016 05:46:29 -0400

"The Korean War"....by Max Hastings I think it would be good to know about this war because so many have no idea what our military did in Korea from June 1950 to July 1953 & today we have the North Koreans rattling their sabers again.

Response by SSG Leo Bell made May 14 at 2016 6:04 AM

SSG Leo Bell — Sat, 14 May 2016 06:04:12 -0400

No sir I don't right now, just want to wish you the best of luck in your career.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 14 at 2016 7:59 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 14 May 2016 07:59:04 -0400

That's an awesome book. My must read is "Black Hearts: One Platoon's Descent Into Madness in Iraq's Triangle of Death" by Jim Frederick.

Response by CPT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made May 14 at 2016 8:49 AM

CPT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 14 May 2016 08:49:30 -0400

Eyes of Orien, Platoon Leader, Ice to the Eskimos (surprisingly relates), The Men, The Mission, and Me

Response by Cpl Rc Layne made May 14 at 2016 10:24 AM

Cpl Rc Layne — Sat, 14 May 2016 10:24:31 -0400

Sun Tzu The Artist of War
David Hackworth Steel my Soldiers Hearts
Ross Scott Carter Those Devils in Baggy Pants
Marine. The life of Chesty Puller
Eric Greitens The Heart and the Mind
Sean Parnell Outlaw Platoon
Richard Marcinko Leadership Secrets of the Rogue Warrior
Miyomoto Musashi The Book of Five Rings
Patrick O'DONNELL Wednesday were One
Donovan Campbell Joker One
Roy Hazelwood The Evil that Men Do
EB Sledge With the Old Breed
Thomas Cleary The Code of the Samurai
Jim DeFelice Code Name Johnny Walker
Can't quote the authors name. Hakagure or Hidden amongst the Leaves, Wisdom from the Courts of the Samurai.
And like TSGT Frank Shirley, you can never go wrong with reading the Bible.
I know it's a long list, but I learned something from each of them about human nature and was able to apply it to work.

Response by Capt Mark Strobl made May 14 at 2016 12:35 PM

Capt Mark Strobl — Sat, 14 May 2016 12:35:11 -0400

" A Message to Garcia" - It's not illustrated, so I had a little trouble with it. But the message of the story should be embraced by ANY leader in ANY capacity. And congratulations, CPT Private RallyPoint Member on your pending commission. The Corps, apparently, has lost its monopoly on leadership. Bravo-Zulu, lad!

Response by CPT Joseph K Murdock made May 14 at 2016 3:04 PM

CPT Joseph K Murdock — Sat, 14 May 2016 15:04:27 -0400

Read about COL Chamberlain's Maine Regiment. He picked up stragglers from another Main Unit and gained their trust to fight with him. At Gettysburg his unit protected a flank from a massed divisional attack. The Union Army placed his men in the middle of the battlefield defenses to give them a rest, only to see the confederates massing forces going straight to him. You will learn about his compassion, ingenuity, and heart of lion.

Response by MAJ Keira Brennan made May 14 at 2016 5:08 PM

MAJ Keira Brennan — Sat, 14 May 2016 17:08:45 -0400

That's a great read! I'd suggest "Time for Trumpets: The Untold Story of the Battle of the Bulge" by Charles McDonald. My Dad got me reading military history as a teen. This is one of my all time favorites. I treated him to a personal guided tour of the Bastogne for his retirement. :)

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made May 14 at 2016 5:51 PM

CSM Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 14 May 2016 17:51:02 -0400

Five Years to Freedom is a great book. I read it back in 1990 or thereabouts.

Go look up the Chief-of_Staff of the Army's reading list. It is broken down into appropriate books for different grades. Congrats on commissioning

Response by COL Jon Thompson made May 14 at 2016 6:26 PM

COL Jon Thompson — Sat, 14 May 2016 18:26:51 -0400

Little over a month ago, we had a retired Major General talk to the cadets in my program. Before his talk, he was looking at the library that we have in our classroom. He pointed out ONCE AN EAGLE by Anton Myrer and said the book looked decidedly unread. He said that it was a classic and he had several bosses who used it regularly. As someone who prides myself on reading a lot of the classics, I wondered why I never heard of it before. So a few days later, I took it home and just finished reading it today. It is a contrast between the two general types of leaders in the Army. The one who really cares about their Soldiers and does their best to lead them. The other is the one who uses connections to work through the ranks and punches the necessary tickets to get promoted. After reading this, I do recommend it as well. It is almost 950 pages so it will take some time.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made May 15 at 2016 9:51 PM

PO1 William "Chip" Nagel — Sun, 15 May 2016 21:51:59 -0400

Not unless you are going in my Field of Cryptology then I recommend The Puzzle Palace and Body of Secrets.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 16 at 2016 7:02 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 16 May 2016 19:02:47 -0400

He was more than a test pilot and his discipline and ground experience after being escaping from France during WW2 is a good read too.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 16 at 2016 7:04 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 16 May 2016 19:04:08 -0400

I met him while I was in the hospital at Fort Lewis after breaking my ankle in combatives in Afghanistan. I have a signed copy.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 16 at 2016 7:06 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 16 May 2016 19:06:52 -0400

This guy was a James Bond type of guy in France in WW2 and it ties in with the Yeager book. He made it to 2 star General and he got fired confronting President Carter when, in 1977 Carter, was stupidly thinking of pulling US troops out of Korea. He is still alive too.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 16 at 2016 7:08 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 16 May 2016 19:08:43 -0400

Why air power alone will not make you win a war. The Polticians & the Pentagon should reread this book.

Response by SFC Jerry Shaw made May 17 at 2016 6:35 AM

SFC Jerry Shaw — Tue, 17 May 2016 06:35:25 -0400

Basic English might help! Proof read the message

Response by CPT Daniel Glorsky made May 17 at 2016 6:43 AM

CPT Daniel Glorsky — Tue, 17 May 2016 06:43:14 -0400

"Platoon Leader" by James McDonough and "Matterhorn" by Karl Marlantes. These books will specifically talk about difficulties you might face as a PL

Response by GySgt Patrick Gerdeman made May 17 at 2016 7:52 AM

GySgt Patrick Gerdeman — Tue, 17 May 2016 07:52:18 -0400

We were Soldiers once and young
The Ugly American

Response by LTC Marc King made May 17 at 2016 8:19 AM

LTC Marc King — Tue, 17 May 2016 08:19:51 -0400

The Generals: American Military Command from World War II to Today by
Thomas E. Ricks

Best of luck with your career!

Response by Maj Jared Holt made May 17 at 2016 8:25 AM

Maj Jared Holt — Tue, 17 May 2016 08:25:02 -0400

A few good captains

Response by 1LT Tom Welch made May 17 at 2016 8:26 AM

1LT Tom Welch — Tue, 17 May 2016 08:26:40 -0400

Fields of Fire, by James Webb
About Face, by David Hackworth
Leavenworth papers on the Korean War, in particular those that deal with the Chinese reaction to US forces

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 8:37 AM

CW4 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 08:37:00 -0400

"brief" by Joseph McCormack and "Leaders eat last" by Simon Sinek.

Response by CW4 Pam Collins made May 17 at 2016 8:44 AM

CW4 Pam Collins — Tue, 17 May 2016 08:44:08 -0400

There are a number of great leadership books available. Good to great, courage the backbone of leadership by gus lee, anything by Malcolm Gladwell. leadership courses have recommended reading lists

Response by SSgt Arthur Young made May 17 at 2016 8:50 AM

SSgt Arthur Young — Tue, 17 May 2016 08:50:14 -0400

1. Bloods
2. Chickenhawk
3. 1984
4. The Art of War by Sun Tzu
5. Bat21

Response by SSgt Arthur Young made May 17 at 2016 8:51 AM

SSgt Arthur Young — Tue, 17 May 2016 08:51:30 -0400

1. The Art of War by Sun Tzu
2. Chickenhawk
3. Bat21
4. 1984
5. Bloods

Response by SGT Paul Dare made May 17 at 2016 9:12 AM

SGT Paul Dare — Tue, 17 May 2016 09:12:48 -0400

I can only really suggest books if you are planning on serving in an airborne unit. If you are, then I would highly recommend reading Combat Jump and The First Men in, both by Ed Ruggero. He is an excellent writer and this will give you a very readable history of the early Airborne.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 9:23 AM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 09:23:40 -0400

Have you read Black Hearts yet?

Response by LTC Anthony Merola made May 17 at 2016 9:25 AM

LTC Anthony Merola — Tue, 17 May 2016 09:25:13 -0400

Read "Once an Eagle", by Anton Myrer. For a work of fiction, one of the best written studies in leadership and ethics I have ever seen. The story spans WWI through the peacetime army of the 1920s and 30s, through WWII. Sam Damon and Courtney Massengale are two bitter rivals for career and promotions. Damon has moral courage. Massengale is an unethical perfumed prince.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 9:25 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 09:25:36 -0400

"Patton: A Genius for War" by LTC (R) Carlo D'Este,
http://www.amazon.com/Patton-Genius-War-Carlo-DEste/dp/ [login to see] /ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid= [login to see] &sr=1-1&keywords=carlo+d%27este+patton+a+genius+for+war
"The Mission, the Men, and Me" by Pete Blaber.
http://www.amazon.com/Mission-Men-Me-Lessons-Commander/dp/ [login to see] /ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid= [login to see] &sr=1-1&keywords=mission+men+and+me

Amazon.com: Patton: Genius for War, A (9780060927622): Carlo D'Este: Books

Response by COL David Wayne made May 17 at 2016 9:25 AM

COL David Wayne — Tue, 17 May 2016 09:25:55 -0400

Matterhorn: A Novel of the Vietnam War by Karl Marlantes

I don't know how you will be branched but this is the best primer to understand the life of an infantry LT in combat. Well written and compelling.

Response by MSG John Pitstick made May 17 at 2016 9:26 AM

MSG John Pitstick — Tue, 17 May 2016 09:26:31 -0400

"ABOUT FACE", by David Hackworth, COL. U.S. Army, Retired, is one of the best writings that I have had the opportunity to read! Excellent professional advice on leadership and the importance of training by one of the most decorated officers to serve in the Army, that earned his commission on the battlefield. Very informative, especially for young officers who are seeking career advice from someone that has been there and done it all.

Response by SSgt Chris Frey made May 17 at 2016 9:31 AM

SSgt Chris Frey — Tue, 17 May 2016 09:31:13 -0400

Iron John A book about men.

Response by PFC David Miller made May 17 at 2016 9:34 AM

PFC David Miller — Tue, 17 May 2016 09:34:30 -0400

"We Were Soldiers Once...And Young" by LTG Harold G. Moore (Ret.) And Joe Galloway. An excellent study in leadership. And believe it or not, I would also recommend 'Starship Troopers' by Robert A. Heinlein. While it is science fiction, there are excellent lessons to be learned. Additionally "Patton: The Man Behind the Legend" by Martin Blumenson. Gain inspiration and insight from one of our greatest commanders. Good luck to you cadet.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 9:36 AM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 09:36:07 -0400

Response by CPT Peter Ossmann made May 17 at 2016 9:37 AM

CPT Peter Ossmann — Tue, 17 May 2016 09:37:43 -0400

About Face - Col. Hackworth. An outstanding soldier and Leader.
Attacks - Rommel

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 9:42 AM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 09:42:37 -0400

Passion of Command. Short read but puts everything that you are about to embark on into perspective

Response by CSM William Johnson made May 17 at 2016 9:45 AM

CSM William Johnson — Tue, 17 May 2016 09:45:07 -0400

I know that I'm late posting, but I would recommend Black Hearts by Jim Frederick. It's a great book to learn how things can get out of control. Leaders at every level both Commissioned, and Non-Commissioned must maintain standards "all standards", when we start to let things slide it's easy to get to a point of no return. I challenge you to read it and let me know what you think? Good luck, and GOD Bless you for your service!

Response by SrA Chris Hendra made May 17 at 2016 9:49 AM

SrA Chris Hendra — Tue, 17 May 2016 09:49:35 -0400

Extreme ownership

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 9:51 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 09:51:33 -0400

The Constitution is a good start. Platoon Leader is a good, easy read. Ender's Game another (not the movie, the book). The Soldier and the State is way deeper, but if not that, look for something that discusses the role of a citizen versus that of a Soldier in American society.

Response by SSG Brett Jones made May 17 at 2016 10:00 AM

SSG Brett Jones — Tue, 17 May 2016 10:00:05 -0400

I just finished "With Schwarzkopf Life Lessons of The Bear". I highly recommend it!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 10:05 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 10:05:46 -0400

Leaders eat last

Response by MAJ Seth Goldstein made May 17 at 2016 10:06 AM

MAJ Seth Goldstein — Tue, 17 May 2016 10:06:59 -0400

Platoon Leader

Response by COL Jerold Wood made May 17 at 2016 10:10 AM

COL Jerold Wood — Tue, 17 May 2016 10:10:59 -0400

Read As much as you can as it provides a solid career/life foundation for who you are and how you interpret situations and perform in those situations. The Chief of staff of the Army publishes his recommended reading list which has some good titles.

I recommend reading:
The Bible.
Dereliction of Duty by H.R. McMaster.
Soul of the Lion, A biography of Joshua L. Chamberlain, by Willard Wallace.
Company Commander, by Charles MacDonald
The Forgotten Soldier, by Guy Sajer
Anything about Dick Winters.
The Patton Papers, (Two Volumes) by Marten Blumenson
The Personal Memoirs of Ulysses S. Grant
The Pictorial Life of George Washington by John Frost.

Best of luck to you in all your future endeavors.

Response by SSG Don Maggart made May 17 at 2016 10:15 AM

SSG Don Maggart — Tue, 17 May 2016 10:15:54 -0400

https://www.amazon.com/War-Comes-Home-Washingtons-Americas-ebook/dp/B007O98I4K?ie=UTF8&btkr=1&ref_=dp-kindle-redirect

The War Comes Home: Washington's Battle against America's Veterans - Kindle edition by Aaron...

The War Comes Home: Washington's Battle against America's Veterans - Kindle edition by Aaron Glantz. Download it once and read it on your Kindle device, PC, phones or tablets. Use features like bookmarks, note taking and highlighting while reading The War Comes Home: Washington's Battle against America's Veterans.

Response by SPC Brian Lewis made May 17 at 2016 10:16 AM

SPC Brian Lewis — Tue, 17 May 2016 10:16:19 -0400

We were soldiers once and young. By col hal more
Streets of Mogadishu : Leadership at odds best, political correctness at its worst by col Danny McKnight
And 2 that I forget the airport name of hand
The first is called on combat and the second is on killing

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 10:19 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 10:19:29 -0400

The Boys of '67, it's about the Vietnam War, and it is a very good read.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 10:23 AM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 10:23:46 -0400

About Face by Col. David Hackworth. 25 year military career, served in Korea and Vietnam, probably the best tactical mind of his generation and an amazing leader. The one and only officer who got it right in 'nam and kept his soldiers alive.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 10:27 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 10:27:34 -0400

Charlie Mike for leadership development. Duty (robert Gates) to understand the bigger picture of what you will be executing as an officer. Watch 12 O'Clock High (Gregory Peck) and pay attention to how much a leader can get over involved and invested in his troops. Read the Quran to understand your enemy, then The Art of War to understand how to defeat him. Get the latest Officer's Guide and get very, very familiar with it.

For leisure, read anything by or about about Nick Rowe. Read early Harold Coyle and Tom Clancy for tactics and strategy. read anything you can get your hands on to understand how the world works.

Your Basic Course will also have a reading list for you. Absorb it with a rain of salt (often it is instructor preference).

Go forth and do awesome things!

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 10:35 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 10:35:45 -0400

Six Silent Men (three book series)

Response by MSgt Danny Hope made May 17 at 2016 10:45 AM

MSgt Danny Hope — Tue, 17 May 2016 10:45:05 -0400

Into The Mouth Of The Cat by Malcolm McConnell

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 10:50 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 10:50:08 -0400

I recommend that you read The Things They Carried. As well as flags of our fathers and the flip side to that one letters from Iwo Jima. All good reads

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 10:54 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 10:54:18 -0400

This is a grate book with a lot of older English if you can find this read it

Response by SGM Scott Blum made May 17 at 2016 10:54 AM

SGM Scott Blum — Tue, 17 May 2016 10:54:30 -0400

The art of War by Sun TZU, Leadership Secrets of Attila the hun, by Wess Roberts, and A Street Without Joy by Bernard , all good reads, and remember you are only as good as the Soldiers, Marines, Airmen or Sailors you lead

Response by SGT Steve Adams made May 17 at 2016 10:55 AM

SGT Steve Adams — Tue, 17 May 2016 10:55:01 -0400

1. Some Survived by Manny Lawton (Bataan Death March; Japanese POW) Heroic
2. Strike and Hold by Moffatt Burriss (WWII paratrooper; D-Day; Market Garden, etc.) Heroic
3. Four Hours in My Lai (My Lai Massacre) The facts regarding this civilian massacre in Vietnam,
.................................................................................its cover-up, and the subsequent "trial"
4. Last Night I Dreamed of Peace by Dang Thuy Tram Perspective of young female MD -
.................................................................................................a North Vietnamese patriot
5. Against All Enemies by Richard Clarke Former "Terrorism Czar" most informative perspective on
............................problems with the myriad of US intelligence agencies and government policies
6. When in the Course of Human Events by Charles Adams Different perspective on events
...................................................................surrounding and reasons for American "Civil War"

Too many other books to list, much less read! Some detail heroic actions, others present perspectives less common to Americans. Even reading short parts of these and/or other books could be greatly informative and horizon broadening.
Best to scan through books to determine whether or not it is worth the time to read the entire book (unless you read 2,000+ words per minute - then you may have the luxury of doing more than scanning).

Response by Sgt Greg Cope made May 17 at 2016 10:58 AM

Sgt Greg Cope — Tue, 17 May 2016 10:58:12 -0400

I'm the author of what the USMC calls the most accurate depiction of enlisted boot camp, The Pink Marine (http://www.thepinkmarine.com) and completed Officer candidates as well. You're smart to get informed ahead of your service. I wish you much success.

Response by COL David Anderson made May 17 at 2016 10:58 AM

COL David Anderson — Tue, 17 May 2016 10:58:33 -0400

Once An Eagle. Best piece of American military literature ever written. The best literary teacher of the tenets of military leadership. When you get commissioned always strive to be Sam Damon and never Courtney Massengale.

Response by LTC Wayne Dandridge made May 17 at 2016 11:01 AM

LTC Wayne Dandridge — Tue, 17 May 2016 11:01:27 -0400

The Killer Angels, Blades of Thunder (Book One), and all the military history you can find.

Response by Cpl Glynis Sakowicz made May 17 at 2016 11:06 AM

Cpl Glynis Sakowicz — Tue, 17 May 2016 11:06:43 -0400

And here I go, wading in on the Corps' perspective, but we have our share of leaders, my friends. I'd say, "I'm staying with my Boys" by John Basilone or maybe "Marine" about Chesty Puller. Both are focused on some amazing warriors, and, should you be working with Marines in a war zone, knowing how we're trained and what the mindset is, might come in handy....
Oh, Mazel Tov on the upcoming rank. From your question, I'd say that you are going to be one of the few officers that troops not only look to, but look up to, which is a totally different animal! We respect the rank, yes, but respecting the one who wears the rank is a sure sign that you are doing it right.

Response by LT Isaac Gordon made May 17 at 2016 11:29 AM

LT Isaac Gordon — Tue, 17 May 2016 11:29:25 -0400

Many excellent suggestions have already been made. I'd like to suggest "Starship Troopers" by Robert Heinlein. This one might surprise you a bit once you get into it. Also, read the Constitution in its entirety at least once a year.

Response by LTC Raymond Millen made May 17 at 2016 11:32 AM

LTC Raymond Millen — Tue, 17 May 2016 11:32:51 -0400

Rommel's "Attacks" is pretty good. I wrote a book on company-level tactics and mission preparation, "Command Legacy," which should help you as a platoon leader and company commander.

Response by SFC Arai Pooley made May 17 at 2016 11:43 AM

SFC Arai Pooley — Tue, 17 May 2016 11:43:35 -0400

Sir,
There are a number of great book out there, they Army has always been good about providing a suggested reading list . . . . based upon rank. If I was to suggest a book that would be of the most service to you coming into active duty, I would recommend picking up a NCO promotion board study guide at clothing and sales. I have always liked the one authored by CSM Skinner. You are going to have a lot to learn in a very short period, studying like you would for a promotion board will fill in a lot of information gaps, and may keep your junior NCOs from attempting some well known practical jokes.

Sitting on my bookshelf are: "The American Lion", "House of War", "Plan of Attack", "Chain of Command", "The Secret History of the Iraq War", "Fiasco", "The Dictators", "The Hornets Nest" . . . . . and many more. You will have plenty of time for theory, spend your time getting familiar with the practical during your first year in the military.

I wish you the best of luck!

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 11:50 AM

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 11:50:20 -0400

The above mentioned books are great for leadership development. As for the management side of house, I would reccomend the Dan Kennedy NO BS guide to management or the emyth(orignial and not the revisited) to at the very least round out your leadership qualities and processes. There is still the business side of house that needs to be taken into account.

Response by SGT Tony Muro made May 17 at 2016 11:58 AM

SGT Tony Muro — Tue, 17 May 2016 11:58:13 -0400

It's Your Ship: Management Techniques from the Best Damn Ship in the Navy

Book by Captain D. Michael Abrashoff

Response by PO1 Kerry French made May 17 at 2016 12:53 PM

PO1 Kerry French — Tue, 17 May 2016 12:53:36 -0400

The Law- Bastiat. The constitution. Seriously. The 5000 Year Leap -Sousken.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 1:25 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 13:25:57 -0400

Dale Carnegie's How To Win Friends and Influence People. A must read for everyone in my humble opinion.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 1:37 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 13:37:46 -0400

Heres the reading list I gave my cadets- If I could do the last 9 years again. A lot of lists out there that you should research including current and past CSA. Also I'd recommend looking at some of the blogs for input. It's been a while since I read most of these so some of the descriptions may be a little weak.

I. Junior/Senior Year (18 Months)
a. “The Things they Carried” Tim O’Brien
A fictional account of the Vietnam War that blurs the line between fact and fiction. Covers the art of storytelling as much as the trials a Soldier faces.

b. “Defence of Duffers Drift” by Ernest Dunlop Winton
Fictional account of a Lieutenant during the Boer War who continues to relive a defensive battle incorporating lessons learned. Places importance on lessons learned and planning as well as tactical considerations.

c. “A Message to Garcia”- Elbert Hubbard
Short story about the exploits of LT Rowan who was tasked to deliver a message to Garcia. Teaches the lesson about understanding intent and executing- no complaining. Reread this as before taking command as a CPT and reflect on what information would have better enabled LT Rowan.

d. “Starship Troopers” Robert A. Heinlein
Phenomenal fictional account of direct level leadership. The movie doesn’t come close to comparing. More about leadership in tough situations than a sci-fi book

e. “Band of Brothers” Stephen Ambrose
Historical account of Easy Company 506th ,Infantry 101st Airborne Division that details the Company’s training to D-Day and the V-E Day. An excellent comparison between the toxic leadership of CPT Sobel and the compassionate leadership of CPT Dick Winters. The HBO Mini-series does a good job telling the story.

f. “Art of War” Sun Tzu
Probably the easiest original military advice book, and a good place to start before trying to tackle Clausewitz. Filled with advice such as “In raiding and plundering be like fire, in immovability like a mountain.

g. “Gates of Fire” Steven Pressfield
Historical fiction of the Spartans 300 at Thermopylae. No easily read true history of this battle exists and even though fiction, the book is considered historically accurate. The movie would have been even better if it was based off this book, rather than the graphic novel.

II. 2LT (2 Years)
a. “East of Chosin” Roy E. Appleman
A great history about the battle of the Chosin Reservoir, and RCT 31 who fought there. A story of Bravery and cowardice at the same time. It truly highlights the need to keep a well prepared force.

b. “Not a Good Day to Die” Sean Naylor
Contemporary historical account of Operation Anaconda, the first major combat operation in Afghanistan. Details how Special Operations and conventional forces worked in close proximity- also details failures in planning and execution throughout the operation.

c. “The Outpost” Jake Tapper
The story of COP Keating, and the Battle of Kamdesh. Details the history of the COP, why the location was chosen, and the Battle that resulted in two Medal of Honor recipients.

d. “Ghost Fleet” P.W Singer and August Cole
The fictional account of the next world war, taking place in the not too distant future. China attacks Pearl Harbor and America faces the first hostile troops on its land since Gettysburg.

e. “Leaders Eat Last” Simon Sinek
Lessons on leadership designed for the business world that have very real application during every day military operations. The title is obviously taken from Army and Marine history.

f. “Black Hearts” Jim Frederick
The true story of the Soldiers from one company during a 2005 deployment to Baghdad that ended with three Soldiers raping and murdering a 14 year old girl, murdering her family, and burning their house. An example of toxic leadership at its worst and the disintegrating effect of poor leadership.

g. “My Share of the Task” GEN Stanley McChrystal
The Memoir of a former Ranger Regiment Commander, Special Forces Commander, and ISAF Commander. He relives lessons he learned as a young LT and Company Commander with as much detail as when he commanded all NATO Forces in Afghanistan. Perhaps the best part of the book is the ending. He doesn’t allow his memoir to become a “gripe session” over the largely false “Rolling Stones” article that ended his career.

h. “We Were Soldiers Once and Young” LTG Hal Moore and Joe Galloway
The classic account of the Battle of Ia Drang, the first major operation in Vietnam where American Soldiers engaged the NVA. Written by the Battalion Commander and an embedded reporter, an excellent account of leadership under fire.

i. “The Mission, Men, and Me” Pete Blabber
Leadership lessons from a former Delta Commander that he learned through a long career fighting in multiple conflicts. The summations at the end of each chapter are lessons for business but they clearly relate to all military leaders, regardless of branch.

III. 1LT (2 Years)
a. “Start with Why” Simon Sinek
Designed for business it highlights that successful organization have a true purpose that all members buy into. Highlighting examples of business successes and failures he explains what really motivates individuals and organizations to succeed.

b. “The Killer Angels” Michael Shaara
Historical fiction account of Gettysburg. Basis for the movie “Gettysburg”

c. “Battle Cry of Freedom” James McPherson
In-depth historical account of the American Civil War that details causes and political consequences, while still covering specific battles and campaigns. Probably the best general history of the civil war available.

d. “Team of Teams” GEN Stanley McChrystal and Tantum Collins
The Authors depict how changing organizations, flattening networks, and sharing information and responsibility helped defeat AQI, and how those same principles can be applied in all military operations and the business world.

e. “Guns of August” Barbra Tuchman
Historical account about the events leading to and the beginning of World War I. It leaves the reader with an impression that War was absolute, but both sides only planned for a short struggle, not the massive conflict that set the stage for a tumultuous 20th century.

f. “Lone Survivor” Marcus Luttrell
The story of Operation Red Wing, one of the deadliest operations in the history of the US Navy Seals. What the movie misses is the importance of Pastuwali that Luttrell addresses in detail.

g. “World War Z” Max Brooks
Written by the son of Mel Brooks (Blazing Saddles, Spaceballs, Bride of Frankenstein etc…) a fictional after action report on how humans finally defeated a zombie outbreak. Technology didn’t help humans survive, ingenuity and true struggle prevail. Don’t watch the movie- it doesn’t compare and won’t teach the lessons the book addresses. Following his father’s lead it’s extremely entertaining too.

h. “Cobra II” Michael R. Gordon and Bernard E. Trainor
The strategic and operational view of the 2003 invasion of Iraq. The reader is left with the strong impression that the defeat of the Iraqi Army was nothing short of a complete victory, but knowing the future of Iraq can’t help but notice the failures of planning during the occupation.

i. “1776” David McCullough
History of the start and American Revolution. Well written and easy to read.

IV. CPT- 7 Years
a. “Just and Unjust Wars” Michael Walzer
Written following the Vietnam War the author lays out clear principles for determining if Military operations can be considered just. It establishes a framework that should be read by both Politicians and Soldiers.

b. “This Kind of War” T.R Fehrenbach
A complete history of the Korean war. Any Soldier that reads it should take special note of Task Force Smith and how unpreparedness wastes Soldiers lives. It details battles and leaders that every leader can gain insights from, but also details the wasted lives at the end of the war. It saddens the reader to understand the wasted lives both at the onset of war and the closing of the war.

c. “On War” Carl von Clausewitz
The basis for modern warfare and our doctrine. In-depth discussions on strategy and tactics. His ends and means are still useful today, and he advocated destroying enemy forces rather than focusing on terrain (a concept that Grant and Sherman used effectively to end the American Civil War).

d. “The Generals” Tom Ricks
An outline of American Generals and how we used to assess them to how we assess them now. Tactical incompetence used to result in relief, now it’s just personal accountability issues that lead to relief. A great lesson on leadership and allowing failures young so the right leaders succeed later.

e. “Patton, Montgomery, Rommel” Terry Brighton
A history of WW II that follows three rivals and how they led and affected operations. Most striking is the differences between Patton and Montgomery’s movements across Europe as the Germans were facing defeat.

f. “Gettysburg: The Last Invasion”
A detailed history outlining the campaigns that ended with the Battle of Gettysburg and effectively sealed the fate of the Confederacy. Details how commanders fought and provides a great picture of the battlefield.

g. “Command Culture” Jorg Muth
Written by a German, he outlines the differences between the American Officer Education System and the German systems before WWII. He argues that German education better prepares officer to succeed under the principles of Auftagstaktik (Mission Command). He also argues that German officers were more principled and ethical, solely blaming the atrocities of the Holocaust on the SS and generally relieving the Wehrmacht of responsibility.

h. “Personal memoirs of U.S Grant” Ulysses S. Grant
Grant’s own account of the Civil War that outlines his campaigns and battles from Vicksburg to Appomattox. Edited by Mark Twain, it is remarkable easy to read for a memoir of that era, and gives readers a good feel for balancing risk and audacity.

i. “Once an Eagle” Anton Myrer
The story of Sam Damon as he progresses from an enlisted Soldier in the Mexican War to a career Officer. The struggles of a post war Army and the theme of a moral leader who takes care of Soldiers are prevalent throughout the book.

Response by PO3 James Sites made May 17 at 2016 1:51 PM

PO3 James Sites — Tue, 17 May 2016 13:51:13 -0400

I strongly suggest you get get a copy of "the Essentials of Liberty" from The Patriot Post,and re-read the Constitution of the United States,and the thoughts of our founding fathers BEFORE you take the Commissioning Oath! You will be swearing to defend the document,best you be fresh on what it says,not what your superiors tell you it says!

Response by MSG Antonio Giuliano made May 17 at 2016 1:51 PM

MSG Antonio Giuliano — Tue, 17 May 2016 13:51:15 -0400

Cadet CPT Micah Simpson,
I highly recommend 3 Books for you to own and to read and to continue to read and apply throughout your Army career and your life, regardless.

1. The MacArthur Study Bible
https://www.gty.org/products/study-bibles

2. The Book on Leadership By: John MacArthur
http://www.christianbook.com/the-book-on-leadership/john-macarthur/ [login to see] 381/pd/88389

3. Lincoln on Leadership: Executive Strategies for Tough Times
http://www.amazon.com/Lincoln-Leadership-Executive-Strategies-Tough/dp/ [login to see]

I leave you with two great quotes to apply to your young life and I say Godspeed.

“I believe the Bible is the best gift God has ever given to man. All the good from The Savior of the world is communicated to us through this Book.”
–Abraham Lincoln

"Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character give him power." -Abraham Lincoln 16th President of the US (1809 - 1865)

MacArthur Study Bibles

Grace to You... John MacArthur’s in-depth Bible teaching brings the life-transforming truth of God’s Word to millions of people every day.

Response by SPC James Butler made May 17 at 2016 1:56 PM

SPC James Butler — Tue, 17 May 2016 13:56:07 -0400

"Why Courage Matters" (McCain/Salter) is a good read.

Response by SGT Craig Northacker made May 17 at 2016 2:08 PM

SGT Craig Northacker — Tue, 17 May 2016 14:08:25 -0400

Catch 22. Also, any of the Gunner Asch series by Hans Hellmut Kirst.

Response by PO1 Anthony VanCampen made May 17 at 2016 2:19 PM

PO1 Anthony VanCampen — Tue, 17 May 2016 14:19:58 -0400

Starship Troopers, R A Heinlein
Spots the Space Marine, M C A Hogarth
Frontier Arithmetic, R Kipling

Response by CW3 Dr. Carrie A. Register-Haley, CPC, ELI-MP made May 17 at 2016 2:54 PM

CW3 Dr. Carrie A. Register-Haley, CPC, ELI-MP — Tue, 17 May 2016 14:54:28 -0400

Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead: Sheryl Sandberg

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 2:55 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 14:55:09 -0400

"The Forgotten Soldier" by Guy Sajer, "Sun Tzu's Art of War", "The Bible", "War as I knew it" G.S. Patton Jr.. Nick Rowes book is a very good choice. "Islam and Terrorism", Mark A. Gabriel, One other, Fred Down's book "The Killing Zone".

Response by COL Dave Sims made May 17 at 2016 3:12 PM

COL Dave Sims — Tue, 17 May 2016 15:12:33 -0400

Three come to mind : With the Old Breed: At Peleliu and Okinawa , The Killer Angels and Rebel Yell. What they all have in common is that war is a nasty, vicious business where utter determination is required to triumph over the enemy..... and how leadership either works or fails.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 3:16 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 15:16:06 -0400

"This Kind of War"
"Starship Troopers"

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 3:17 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 15:17:32 -0400

"This Kind of War"
"Starship Troopers"
"The Federalist Papers" (those sections that discuss the military).

Response by Col Talbot Vivian made May 17 at 2016 3:55 PM

Col Talbot Vivian — Tue, 17 May 2016 15:55:28 -0400

Lots of great advice on how to succeed in the military. Also a good overall read.
Basic Airman to General: The Secret War & Other Conflicts: Lessons in Leadership & Life -
Jan 29, 2014
by General Piotrowski

Response by SMSgt Roy Dowdy made May 17 at 2016 4:32 PM

SMSgt Roy Dowdy — Tue, 17 May 2016 16:32:53 -0400

"Once an Eagle" by Anton Myrer is a great fictional profile of two leadership dynamics.

Response by PFC Ed Dunnigan made May 17 at 2016 5:04 PM

PFC Ed Dunnigan — Tue, 17 May 2016 17:04:00 -0400

"A Rifleman Went to War" by Herbert W. McBride
"When Hell was in Session" by Adm. Jeremiah Denton The man personifies the word "perseverance"

Response by LT Adam Morgan made May 17 at 2016 5:24 PM

LT Adam Morgan — Tue, 17 May 2016 17:24:14 -0400

Ender's Game
Delilah (Classics of Naval Literature) Goodrich, Marcus
Sand Pebbles.
Starship Trooper.

They all give an outlook on the military and mission that are not found in textbooks or self aggrandizing biographies. And read them, don't think the movies even started to capture why they are worthwhile.

Response by LTC Jonathan Reinebold made May 17 at 2016 5:34 PM

LTC Jonathan Reinebold — Tue, 17 May 2016 17:34:12 -0400

Ops manuals!

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 5:41 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 17:41:43 -0400

"It Doesn't Take a Hero" by Gen. H. Norman Schwarzkopf, "To Hell and Back" by Audie Murphy, "We Were Soldiers...." by LTG Hal Moore, "The Art of War" by Sun Tsu.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 5:42 PM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 17:42:28 -0400

First, if you haven't already, read the Constitution of the United States. You are about to take an oath in which you swear to defend the ideas in that document with your life. It would be wise to know what they are. After that read "When Thunder Rolled" by Ed Rasimus.

Response by Brig Gen Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 5:47 PM

Brig Gen Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 17:47:13 -0400

I would strongly recommend Colin Powel's book on leadership; The Leadership Secrets of Colin Powell.

Response by SSG Ray Cherry made May 17 at 2016 6:04 PM

SSG Ray Cherry — Tue, 17 May 2016 18:04:40 -0400

A good book for any Officer (or SNCO) to have is "Service Etiquette" by Cherlynn Conetsco and Anna Hart. http://www.amazon.com/Service-Etiquette-5th-Cherlynn-Conetsco/dp/ [login to see]

Amazon.com: Service Etiquette, 5th Edition (9781591143574): Cherlynn Conetsco, Anna Hart: Books

Buy Service Etiquette, 5th Edition on Amazon.com â FREE SHIPPING on qualified orders

Response by CW3 Susan Burkholder made May 17 at 2016 7:33 PM

CW3 Susan Burkholder — Tue, 17 May 2016 19:33:11 -0400

Honestly I'd read "The One Minute Manager" by Ken Blanchard and Spencer Johnson. Even though it was written with business in mind; by the book's end you will know how to apply it to your situation and enjoy the benefits. It is a concise, easily read story that reveals three very practical secrets: Everyone responds to One Minute Goals, One Minute Praisings, and One Minute Reprimands. And how nothing is more important the weekly one minute meetings.

Another leadership book that most military people will dismiss but - is genius at motivating and getting the most out people is; "Mary Kay on People Management."

Response by LTC Doug Fenwick made May 17 at 2016 8:02 PM

LTC Doug Fenwick — Tue, 17 May 2016 20:02:34 -0400

I highly recommend Taking Charge by Perry M. Smith.

Response by SPC Brian Stephens made May 17 at 2016 8:27 PM

SPC Brian Stephens — Tue, 17 May 2016 20:27:42 -0400

I would say, get it over and be one up and read Clausewitz's six volumes "On War."

Separately, I am FINALLY reading "Under Fire" by Lt. Col Oliver North, USMC (Ret.) about his time at the NSC supporting the Nicaraguan Contras.

Response by MCPO Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 9:11 PM

MCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 21:11:12 -0400

Turn the Ship Around.

Talks about Navy, but the lessons and concepts are applicable everywhere.

http://www.amazon.com/Turn-Ship-Around-Turning-Followers/dp/ [login to see]

Turn the Ship Around!: A True Story of Turning Followers into Leaders: L. David Marquet, Stephen...

Buy Turn the Ship Around!: A True Story of Turning Followers into Leaders on Amazon.com â FREE SHIPPING on qualified orders

Response by 1SG Patrick Sims made May 17 at 2016 9:37 PM

1SG Patrick Sims — Tue, 17 May 2016 21:37:42 -0400

I'm not going to suggest anything to read---just something to remember. Your Platoon Sergeant is responsible to train the men---and also you---You have to determine if you can trust his judgment---Don't disregard suggestions from anyone, regardless of their rank. The biggest mistake a new 2nd Lieutenant makes is to think he has all the answers. Your commission didn't give you that knowledge, it just made you responsible for everyone and everything. Also don't take the suggestions of West Point graduates as the final word from God----i don't know what their teaching in that school nowadays---But some of the biggest idiots I've ever seen come out of West Point. Sure they push out a Patton or an Eisenhower from time to time, but to do it they have to graduate 10,000 duds. I know my last remark will upset more than one West Point alumni----But the facts are, collage ROTC programs are producing better officers.

Response by SFC Brian Randall made May 17 at 2016 9:40 PM

SFC Brian Randall — Tue, 17 May 2016 21:40:29 -0400

Duty and A Passion For Leadership. Both authored by former Secretary of Defense Robert Gates.

Response by PO3 William Weaver made May 17 at 2016 9:58 PM

PO3 William Weaver — Tue, 17 May 2016 21:58:06 -0400

Extreme ownership, Raising men and Turn this ship around. "You are the Skipper and the skipper always knows, even when he does'nt." COB, U571 (Harvey Kietel) Leadedhip Secrets of Attlia the Hun also. It's definitely not what you think it is.

Response by CWO3 Curtis Conway made May 17 at 2016 10:02 PM

CWO3 Curtis Conway — Tue, 17 May 2016 22:02:47 -0400

For Tactics and Strategy you should have your own copy of Art Of War by Sun Tzu. I am told that the US Military Academy at West Point has some excellent books on the strategies used by both sides during the Civil War, which are good. However, you most valuable reference will be the same book the Israelis study, the Holy Bible and the Battles of the Old Testament. Find as many commentaries as you can find on the context and goings on around each battle. Understand Thyself, and Understand Thine Enemy, and you will always be Victorious.

Response by PO2 Michael Henry made May 17 at 2016 10:39 PM

PO2 Michael Henry — Tue, 17 May 2016 22:39:37 -0400

5 years to freedom... Sounds like my time in the Navy. Anyway, I recommend American Sniper by Chris Kyle, Lone Survivor by Marcus Luttrell or Beyond Band of Brothers by Major Winters. It goes in further detail that wasn't covered by the series and a great read.

Response by SFC David Szucs made May 17 at 2016 11:37 PM

SFC David Szucs — Tue, 17 May 2016 23:37:13 -0400

Sun Tsu, David Drake almost anything, Vietnam Vet fiction author covers alot of combat stress related things and unit personalities, Mask of Command was useful.

Response by LTC Erik Spike Thiesmeyer, Sr. made May 17 at 2016 11:48 PM

LTC Erik Spike Thiesmeyer, Sr. — Tue, 17 May 2016 23:48:17 -0400

I remember Five Years to Freedom like I read it yesterday. Epic story.

I recommend The Brotherhood of War series by W.E.B. Griffin. I read "The Lieutenants" and "The Captains" while in OCS. Then I was hooked. "The Majors, The Colonels, The Berets, The Generals, The Aviators, and The New Breed" are each outstanding. Most of the characters are can be found in history and you get to watch their careers through WW2, Korea, Viet Nam and beyond. I learned so much about leading men in the field from this series. Infantry, Armor, Field Artillery, Intelligence, Special Forces are all covered in this series. Although fiction, much of it is based on real battles and real places.

When someone I know graduates from ROTC or OCS, I give them a brand new copy of "The Lieutenants". Good luck you!

Response by A1C Jeff D. made May 18 at 2016 12:36 AM

A1C Jeff D. — Wed, 18 May 2016 00:36:51 -0400

Total Money Makeover, By Dave Ramsey. AND follow it, and live it. Why? With the pay raise you will get, become debt free, and give you future troops a real role model to look up to.

Response by CPO Michael Barnhart made May 18 at 2016 1:26 AM

CPO Michael Barnhart — Wed, 18 May 2016 01:26:47 -0400

Given today's asymmetric warefRe read "Horse soldiers" the Koran and pick and choose from the litany of choices from other respondants. I spent 6 months in a VSP (village stability platform) in AFG and the more you can learn about our enemies culture and intended actions the better. I know there will be narrow minded responses to the Koran but Sun Zui said to know your enemy and our enemy is derived by religious and self serving goals that need to be known not ignored to defeat them.

Response by LTC Troy P. Thomas made May 18 at 2016 3:07 AM

LTC Troy P. Thomas — Wed, 18 May 2016 03:07:47 -0400

Once an Eagle
Gates of Fire
Starship Trooper

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made May 18 at 2016 3:49 AM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 May 2016 03:49:33 -0400

A lot of good information here. I didn't read everything but I would highly recommend A Message to Garcia. It's a quick read with a strong message.

Response by MAJ Jeffery Miller made May 18 at 2016 4:48 AM

MAJ Jeffery Miller — Wed, 18 May 2016 04:48:55 -0400

The bible. sun tzu the art if war, and any levanworth papers you can fund that are specific

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 18 at 2016 8:27 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 May 2016 08:27:27 -0400

Once an Eagle
Novel by Anton Myrer
Read it and live it

Response by Sgt Jason Edwards made May 18 at 2016 9:53 AM

Sgt Jason Edwards — Wed, 18 May 2016 09:53:48 -0400

Armor by John Steakly, Ender's Game and Starship troopers. Trust you NCO's to take care of the troops as well as you!

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made May 18 at 2016 10:37 AM

CSM Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 May 2016 10:37:47 -0400

Once and Eagle

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made May 18 at 2016 10:38 AM

CSM Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 May 2016 10:38:23 -0400

Once an Eagle

Response by SGT Matthew Schenkenfelder made May 18 at 2016 11:28 AM

SGT Matthew Schenkenfelder — Wed, 18 May 2016 11:28:58 -0400

Aside from the Bible as mentioned before, I'd suggest The Bridge over the River Kwai. It's a great read and has quite a few really good points as far as navigating military politics and being a leader of soldiers.

Response by SGT Matthew Schenkenfelder made May 18 at 2016 11:35 AM

SGT Matthew Schenkenfelder — Wed, 18 May 2016 11:35:52 -0400

With the Old Breed: At Peleliu and Okinawa is a good read for first-hand experience and accounts dealing with the stresses of combat and battle fatigue. There is a lot of politics and emotion s that contribute to the fog of war, and this book shows what to generally expect, how not to deal with it, and how to act without overreacting.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 18 at 2016 11:57 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 May 2016 11:57:10 -0400

Read letters from Vietnam (BIll Adler). It is a collaboration of personal letters that where sent home during the Vietnam War that detail their personal thoughts, first hand. The letters where ultimately saved and shared with the author who collected it for publishing. Very Surreal!

Response by SPC Rob Robinson made May 18 at 2016 12:23 PM

SPC Rob Robinson — Wed, 18 May 2016 12:23:37 -0400

When I went to war as a Private, I read and discussed with my Pastor, the St. Francis Prayer. The paradox of "Thous Shalt Not Kill" and "...to close with and destroy the enemy by means of firepower and maneuver" caused a discussion between us. How to reconcile the two. I read the prayer and told the priest that I felt I was bringing peace to a situation where one group was being threatened , raped and killed by another. I would deny the belligerent that option. He, a total pacifist, said, "Then, go in good conscious but bear that prayer in mind and don't cross over into the Dark." So, I'd read that prayer and carried that spirit with me through my tour in RVN.

I'd also read 'Brute', by General Krulak, USMC, Ret., and, if you haven't already, Army FM 3-24, Counterinsurgency Field Manual.

Of course, if you're not Infantry, you might as well read Vanity Fair. :-)

Response by Capt Hansel Bumgarner made May 18 at 2016 12:57 PM

Capt Hansel Bumgarner — Wed, 18 May 2016 12:57:19 -0400

Band of Brothers. Steven Ambrose
With the Old Breed. E.B. Sledge
A Soldiers Load and the Mobility of a Nation. S.L.A. Marshall
Fields of Fire. James Webb
The Art of War. Sun Tzu

Believe it or not, Starship Troopers was a must read for many Marine Infantry officers.

Response by SSG Nicholas Wright made May 18 at 2016 2:37 PM

SSG Nicholas Wright — Wed, 18 May 2016 14:37:38 -0400

"The Power of Habit" by Charles Duhigg and "Thinking Fast and Slow" by Daniel Kahneman - knowing how to develop good habits is critical in teaching Soldiers how be consistently successful. As Aristotle said, "We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit."

"The Game Theorist's Guide to Parenting" by Paul Raeburn and Kevin Zollman - you're going to be "platoon daddy" and might benefit from some strategies for getting what you want done without having to resort to a hard touch.

"Liespotting" by Pamela Meyer - people are going to lie to you to get what they want. Learn how to spot it in your own platoon and you'll be able to prevent some of the behaviors that sap morale.

Response by 1SG Melvin Rolon made May 18 at 2016 4:03 PM

1SG Melvin Rolon — Wed, 18 May 2016 16:03:18 -0400

Look up the Marine Corps Reading List for starts. Army has one too. Concentrate on Infantry reading; tactics and leadership. Whatever you learn here, implement in your tool box. But above all, I do hope that they'll stick ya' with a good Platoon SGT. You better suck his brain of knowledge.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 18 at 2016 7:50 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 May 2016 19:50:59 -0400

Read "The 5,000 Year Leap" by W. Cleon Skousen. I suggest that anyone who lives in America reads that book. If I could I would make it required reading for anyone in any public office, including active duty. If the Constitution of the United States is the undying source of our rights and authority of our laws, then we ought to understand its words and the context and understanding of its framers the best we can.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 18 at 2016 9:52 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 May 2016 21:52:53 -0400

Cadet Simpson, first, Thank You for picking up where a lot of people won't and becoming a Soldier/Officer. Second, for the required reading's, always check the U.S. Army Chief Of Staff's Professional Reading List. Most of my Commanders have been given readings from his site to read and even while I was in was given a few of his books to read as an NCO. Still, there are other sites, book clubs or friends to assist you in finding a "Must Read", but this is the fastest.

Response by CPL Sean Grogan made May 19 at 2016 1:16 AM

CPL Sean Grogan — Thu, 19 May 2016 01:16:00 -0400

Cadet CPT Simpson,
You can download this book from amazon, It's Your Ship: Management Techniques from the Best Damn Ship in the Navy. While I never served in the US Navy, as a civilian POST MILITARY, I find that I wish I had officer leaders who had this type of thinking in the past. This is a great book on leadership, team development, and personal accountability as an officer in the US Armed Forces. You can get the book in hardback, paperback, or eBook. If you find the funds lacking, send me a private message and I will buy it for you. http://www.amazon.com/Its-Your-Ship-Management-Anniversary/dp/145552302X

Enjoy!

Sean

It's Your Ship: Management Techniques from the Best Damn Ship in the Navy, 10th Anniversary...

It's Your Ship: Management Techniques from the Best Damn Ship in the Navy, 10th Anniversary Edition [D. Michael Abrashoff] on Amazon.com. *FREE* shipping on qualifying offers. The story of Captain D. Michael Abrashoff and his command of USS Benfold has become legendary inside and outside the Navy. Now Abrashoff offers this fascinating tale of top-down change for anyone trying to navigate today's uncertain business seas. When Captain Abrashoff...

Response by CMDCM Kermit Cain made May 19 at 2016 1:34 AM

CMDCM Kermit Cain — Thu, 19 May 2016 01:34:40 -0400

I spent 31+ years in the USN, retired with last nine years as E-9 as a CMC (Command Master Chief (Senior Enlisted Advisor)). I would read Colin Powell's Leadership (boils down to three pages versus a massive book which is useless). NOT the one that's been changed for the business world, the original created for military leadership. Also The Foundations of Moral Obligation (The Stockdale Course). There numerous more but if you adhere to these two you're more than halfway there. Your primary responsibility is to ALWAYS take care of your men - if they KNOW you care about them they will do whatever it takes, THEY ARE YOUR JOB, they can still do the mission without you, you cannot do the mission without them - it's amazing how many people forget this simple fact as they move up the chain. Good luck. CMC Kermit CAIN, (ret.)

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2016 3:20 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 19 May 2016 15:20:20 -0400

CPT. Simpson,
My personal suggestion, having seen some of the others here, would be the entire "Brotherhood Of War" series by "W.E.B. Griffin", (Pen name for William Edward Butterworth III). His series "The Corps" is also a good read. Keep in mind that Mr Griffin was writing to both the civilian and military audience in both series.

Response by CDR John Selberg made May 19 at 2016 5:45 PM

CDR John Selberg — Thu, 19 May 2016 17:45:07 -0400

Yes. The first book is "The Guns of August" by Barbara Tuchman---and make sure you read the forward of the book too in order to put the book in perspective before the shooting started in World War I. The second book is "The Last Stand of the Tin Can Sailors" by James Hornfischer---a story about an improbable victory against the Japanese Navy near Leyte Gulf during the liberation of the Philippines in World War II---what Americans with their backs against the wall can do when the chips are down.

Response by HN Rick Strul made May 19 at 2016 6:50 PM

HN Rick Strul — Thu, 19 May 2016 18:50:58 -0400

Try "The 5000-year Leap" and "Execution By Hunger."

Response by Nicholas Efstathiou made May 19 at 2016 8:11 PM

Nicholas Efstathiou — Thu, 19 May 2016 20:11:01 -0400

If it hasn't been mentioned yet, you should read "One Bullet Away" by Captain Nathaniel Fick. If you read "Generation Kill" or watched the HBO series of the same name, Captain Fick was the officer in command of the Marine Force Recon unit depicted in both. "One Bullet Away" is an excellent work, especially for someone taking a commission in a combat arm.

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made May 19 at 2016 8:43 PM

SGM Mikel Dawson — Thu, 19 May 2016 20:43:01 -0400

"Citizen Soldier" is a great read. Also look at the writings of Teddy Roosevelt. I've read a few of his books, two that come to mind are: "Rough Riders" and "Hunting Trips of a Ranchman"

Response by SPC John McKenna made May 19 at 2016 8:47 PM

SPC John McKenna — Thu, 19 May 2016 20:47:24 -0400

Dear James Rowe, my nephew just got a full scholarship to Texas A&M, for the Marine ROTC. I bought him "Chosin", by Eric Hammel, and " Colder than Hell", (can't remember author now ). You should also read, " With the Old Breed", and Admiral Nimitz's biography, written by one of his very close staff officers, Potter I believe. There are soooo many more, but those are my favorites. God Bless you, James. ( I served under Jimmah, in 1976- 79. :( ) p.s. and Patton, and the Bible, especially about Jael, and David, ....... see below.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2016 11:32 PM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 19 May 2016 23:32:22 -0400

Autobiography of Ulises S. Grant

Response by CPO David Sharp made May 20 at 2016 5:20 AM

CPO David Sharp — Fri, 20 May 2016 05:20:17 -0400

Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand.

Response by PO1 Jack Howell made May 20 at 2016 11:56 AM

PO1 Jack Howell — Fri, 20 May 2016 11:56:57 -0400

Band of Brothers and Blackhawk down, to start with.

Response by MSG Don Burt made May 20 at 2016 6:27 PM

MSG Don Burt — Fri, 20 May 2016 18:27:44 -0400

James Rowe "suffered grueling psychological and physical torment. He experienced the loneliness and frustration of watching his friends die. And he struggled every day to maintain faith in himself as a soldier and in his country as it appeared to be turning against him." With that being said, the only good book I highly recommend to fill in the gaps and in between the lines for you would be reading The Good Book, aka, The Bible! And spend as much time reading it as your other readings.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made May 23 at 2016 8:37 AM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 23 May 2016 08:37:16 -0400

The Gates of Fire by Steven Pressfield
Wild at Heart / Way of the Wild Heart by John Eldrich

Response by MAJ Scott Meehan made May 24 at 2016 9:25 PM

MAJ Scott Meehan — Tue, 24 May 2016 21:25:00 -0400

I would not necessarily categorize it as a "must read," but my memoirs, "Stone In A Sling," covers my Army career from 1980-1987 as an enlisted medic, 1987-1989 in ROTC, and 1990-2005 as a Military Intelligence and Acquisitions Officer. I did a tour in Berlin when the wall was still standing, a Desert Storm tour, and three tours to Iraq during OIF, one of those as a contractor after retirement.
Here's the link if you are interested: http://ow.ly/JSmo300yhd9

Stone In A Sling: A Soldier's Journey: Scott Meehan, Laura LaRouche: 9781530042210: Amazon.com:...

Stone In A Sling: A Soldier's Journey [Scott Meehan, Laura LaRouche] on Amazon.com. *FREE* shipping on qualifying offers. A coming of age story about a modern military soldier who served in the U.S. Army from 1980 to 2005. Both

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2016 5:10 PM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 May 2016 17:10:26 -0400

Recommend the writings of John Keegan
A History of Warfare
Mask of Command
The Face of Battle
Fields of Battle: The Wars of North America
The First World War
The Second World War

Response by SPC Greg Burnett made Dec 7 at 2016 10:33 PM

SPC Greg Burnett — Wed, 07 Dec 2016 22:33:32 -0500

Green Eggs and Ham

Response by MAJ Scott Meehan made Dec 8 at 2016 11:47 AM

MAJ Scott Meehan — Thu, 08 Dec 2016 11:47:43 -0500

Although a bit early, "Company Command: The Bottom Line" by John G. Meyer Jr.
Are you in ROTC or OCS? Were you ever enlisted? I ask these questions because, "All I Could Be" by Scott Meehan (Retired major) is good because it covers enlisted, ROTC, commissioned, and a year of retired life as a contractor in Iraq. Highly recommended!

Response by 1SG Melvin Rolon made Dec 8 at 2016 1:52 PM

1SG Melvin Rolon — Thu, 08 Dec 2016 13:52:28 -0500

Oh Gee! Where do you start? Well! The Army has an excellent reading list that'll keep ya' busy. The Marince Corps has a mandatory reading list also that is pretty much the best list out there. This one goes from Private all the way to General. I strongly suggest you to start with this two list. General Patton and Mattis as an example, strongly recommend their subordinates to read before they go to combat.

Response by MSG Frederick Otero made Dec 8 at 2016 5:15 PM

MSG Frederick Otero — Thu, 08 Dec 2016 17:15:26 -0500

The Myth of the Strong Leader Archie Brown. Dereliction of Duty H.R. McMasters and Follow Me 1 (The Human Element in Leadership) and the follow up Follow Me 2 Major General Aubrey "Red" Newman, USA. The last two may be difficult to find but worth the effort. Good Luck.

Response by COL David Wayne made Dec 8 at 2016 7:49 PM

COL David Wayne — Thu, 08 Dec 2016 19:49:14 -0500

Matterhorn: A Novel of the Vietnam War
by Karl Marlantes

Response by MSG Dan Castaneda made Dec 9 at 2016 9:25 AM

MSG Dan Castaneda — Fri, 09 Dec 2016 09:25:59 -0500

Read the Ranger Hand Book.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 11 at 2016 2:21 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 11 Dec 2016 14:21:42 -0500

Once an Eagle by Anton Myrer. It is the best book I've ever read about how to be a great leader and how not to be a leader for your Soldiers. It's also just a great story period.

Response by CMDCM Kermit Cain made Dec 16 at 2016 2:27 AM

CMDCM Kermit Cain — Fri, 16 Dec 2016 02:27:52 -0500

"The Foundations of Moral Obligation" (The Admiral Stockdale Course), "1984" and "Brave New World". "The Art of War", "The 48 Laws of Power", "The March to Folly", "War Through the Ages", ALL of Paul Fussell's books, Colin Powell's rules of leadership (not the civilian version, the military original). "The Lucifer Effect: Understanding How Good People Turn Evil" - there's countless more I could recommend but a good leader NEVER stops reading and NEVER stays with the same subject for too long of a time.

Response by MAJ Karen Wall made Dec 18 at 2016 10:44 PM

MAJ Karen Wall — Sun, 18 Dec 2016 22:44:37 -0500

1. Leaders Eat Last: Why Some Teams Pull Together and Others Don't by Simon Sinek
2. FISH
3. My American Journey by Colin Powell