Month: July 2020

Why Marines Fight

Background

Published in 2007, Why Marines Fight is a collection of interviews from some of the most noted Marines in the latter twentieth century. James Brady (author) himself served in Korea with the Marines and true to “once a Marine, always a Marine” he uses “we” and “our” when referring to the Marines.

Why Marines Fight
Why Marines Fight

My Thoughts

This book was a great insight into the culture that is the United States Marine Corps. This band of brothers is hard to understand from the outside but Marines are fiercely loyal and famously tenacious. While there was no big reveal, it was interesting to see how so many people see the Marine Corps from different perspectives.

Recommendation

It was worth my time to read as I have strong interest in the Marines. However, I believe it will not keep interest in someone without a vested interest.

Lincoln on Leadership

Background

Originally published in 1992, Lincoln on Leadership is a compilation of the leadership styles and theories acted out by Abraham Lincoln.

Lincoln on Leadership
Lincoln on Leadership

My Thoughts

Great book full of practical and actionable thoughts and theories. Some of it can be conflicting yet, when taken through the lens of true Christ-like love and compassion it is easy to see what “should” be done.

Recommendation

One of the best books on leadership I’ve read.

Brute

Background

Brute is the biography of 3 star general Victor “Brute” Krulak by Robert Coram. It takes him through his entire storied life and career and highlights his impact on the United States Marine Corps and America as a whole.

Brute
Brute

My Thoughts

Tradition, honor, integrity, and being “squared away” have always been hallmarks of the Marines. None more so than Brute Krulak. His stories are legend and those stories impact both the morale and behavior of Marines today. (Even reading the book made me want to lose weight…)

However, he was a hard man both willing to embellish and outright lie when it suited him. I didn’t like that. I much more preferred the straight-shooting from other leaders like Grant and Lee. I much prefer the truth over what someone might want to be true.

Recommendation

A great read and imperative to understanding the modern Marine Corps.