Francis J. West Boeken

This account chronicles Jim Mattis's distinguished military career, highlighting his leadership in three wars and his command of a quarter of a million troops in the Middle East. Mattis shares foundational experiences that shaped his understanding of warfighting and peacemaking, the significance of alliances, and the strategic challenges facing the nation. He emphasizes the need for America to adopt a strategic approach to avoid winning battles while engaging in inconclusive wars. The narrative is divided into three parts: Direct Leadership, Executive Leadership, and Strategic Leadership. In the first section, Mattis reflects on his early days leading Marines, forming bonds akin to brotherhood. The second part delves into commanding large forces and adapting leadership styles to ensure even the most junior troops grasp their missions. The final section addresses the complexities of strategic leadership, where military and political realms intersect, and the stakes of imprudence are high. This memoir captures Mattis's evolution from Marine recruit to four-star general, illustrating his journey of leadership development and the unique philosophy he cultivated through continuous learning and action, offering insights applicable to all.

For months, author F.J. "Bing" West lived among the Marines besieging the insurgent stronghold of Fallujah, interviewing members of the three US Army units involved before the Marines' arrival. With access to frontline personnel and senior policymakers, West provides an astonishing account of strategy discussions, tense night patrols, and rooftop fighting, revealing a story largely untold in the media. Initially, the Marines aimed to enter Fallujah "as soft as fog," but following the horrific mob killing of four American contractors in March 2004, they launched a fierce attack. West details the brutal street battles, the unexpected resistance, and the sweeping US counterattack that sparked outrage in the Arab world. He takes us behind the scenes of intense negotiations aimed at persuading Iraqis to take charge and eliminate terrorists like al-Zarqawi, who exploited the city as a sanctuary—negotiations with long-lasting implications for Iraq. The narrative centers on the everyday heroism of American soldiers and Marines grappling with the paradox of Iraqis who both desired and resisted American presence. This firsthand account captures the gritty fighting, political maneuvering, and ongoing struggle in Fallujah, serving as a microcosm of the complex and frustrating Iraqi war.

The book features a compelling narrative that has garnered attention on CBS This Morning Saturday, highlighting its relevance and appeal. It explores themes of resilience and personal growth, offering readers an engaging journey through the author's experiences and insights. The storytelling is enriched with vivid details that bring the characters and their challenges to life, making it a thought-provoking read.

Chronicles the actions and efforts of the 1st Marine Division on their 22-day march into Baghdad, reporting firsthand accounts of strategic plans, failures, and ultimately, victory

Napínavá historie od všeobecně uznávaného válečného dopisovatele vychází z šesti let frontových reportáží o vývoji války a možnostech, před nimiž nyní Amerika stojí. V průběhu zuřivých bojů o Falúdžu se Bing West zeptal svého známého plukovníka nové irácké armády, proč jeden z vůdců teroristů Abú Musab al-Zarkáví uprchl z města v přestrojení do ženských šatů. Plukovník kývl hlavou k hlídce americké námořní pěchoty procházející okolo a řekl: „Vy Američané jste totiž nejmocnější kmen.“ Spojené státy se dopouštěly v Iráku jedné chyby za druhou. Mnozí Američané začali proto na válku kašlat. Pak však došlo k prudkému obratu. Generálové David Petraeus a Raymond Odierno začali předvádět způsob velení, který Amerika očekávala. Toto pozoruhodné vyprávění přivádí čtenáře z Bílého domu přímo mezi americké vojáky účastnící se pouličních bojů a vysvětluje, proč dokázali situaci zvrátit.