Exploring Professional Growth: Kickstart Your Career Advancement Via Literature
In the pursuit of excellence and continuous learning, junior military leaders in the Army can find invaluable guidance from a variety of books that focus on leadership, history, military strategy, and decision-making.
One such list, curated by infantry officer Tom Dull, includes a selection of books that have influenced his thinking about the profession of arms. Books like "Band of Brothers", "Brief", "Infantry Attacks", "Legacy", "One Bullet Away", and "Prisoners of Geography" offer insights into cohesion, communication, small-unit tactics, team-building, and global politics.
However, the journey of learning does not end there. Junior leaders can benefit from several other highly regarded books that complement Dull's list.
"On War" by Carl von Clausewitz provides a foundational understanding of the theory and philosophy of war, helping leaders grasp the complexities of military conflict. "Leadership in War" by Andrew Roberts examines the leadership qualities of great commanders and their impact on historical outcomes.
"The Art of Command" by Harry G. Summers Jr. offers practical guidance on military leadership and command based on historical lessons. "The Armed Forces Officer" by the U.S. Department of Defense is an official guide outlining core professional values and leadership principles for officers.
"Call Sign Chaos" by Jim Mattis and Bing West offers insights on leadership and strategic thinking from a modern general’s perspective. "The Warrior Ethos" by Steven Pressfield explores the mindset and values that drive effective warriors and leaders.
"Extreme Ownership" by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin focuses on leadership accountability and decision-making, while "Counterinsurgency Warfare" by David Galula provides a classic manual on irregular warfare and leadership in complex conflict environments.
Historical leadership biographies like "Grant" by Ron Chernow, "Washington: A Life" by Ron Chernow, or "Patton: A Genius for War" by Carlo D'Este broaden perspective on leadership in different eras.
These books, combined, offer historical context, leadership principles, tactical insight, and personal development, all essential for junior leaders seeking to grow in the military profession.
The Army Junior Officer Counsel initiative also encourages ongoing leadership development through community and innovation, emphasizing the importance of broad, continual learning, as Dull himself advocates.
Remember, the views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not reflect the official position of the United States Military Academy, Department of the Army, or Department of Defense.
Army Regulation 25-50, Preparing and Managing Correspondence, provides standards for military correspondence in the Army. Reading these books can help junior leaders pursue excellence and continue to learn and lead.
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