Lt. Gen. Sklenka on Staying in the Fight

Victor Davis Hanson's "The Soul of Battle" explores the nature of leadership and combat through the lives of three commanders: Epaminondas, William Tecumseh Sherman, and George S. Patton. Hanson analyzes their strategies, personalities, and the impact they had on their troops' morale and fighting spirit. The book delves into the importance of understanding the human element in warfare and how different leadership styles can influence the outcome of battles. It also touches upon the role of democracy and its impact on military effectiveness. Hanson's work offers valuable insights into military history and leadership principles.

This book is a compilation of James B. Stockdale's essays and speeches from the 1980s and 1990s, focusing on his experiences as a prisoner of war in Vietnam and how Stoic philosophy, particularly the teachings of Epictetus, helped him endure and thrive under extreme conditions. It explores themes of character, leadership, integrity, and ethics.

In 'The Pentagon's Brain', Annie Jacobsen provides a detailed account of DARPA's history, from its inception during the Cold War to its current projects in AI, biotechnology, and space exploration. The book delves into the ethical dilemmas surrounding DARPA's research and its profound impact on global politics and technology. Jacobsen's narrative is based on extensive research, exclusive interviews, and declassified documents, offering a balanced view of DARPA's achievements and controversies.

In 'Nuclear War: A Scenario', Annie Jacobsen presents a meticulously researched and chilling scenario of a nuclear war. The book begins with a surprise nuclear attack by North Korea on the United States, triggering a cascade of events that involve multiple nations and lead to catastrophic consequences. Jacobsen draws on exclusive interviews with military and civilian experts, as well as recently declassified government reports, to outline the minute-by-minute unfolding of a nuclear conflict. The book highlights the dangers of the 'Launch on Warning' policy, the inadequacy of current nuclear defenses, and the devastating impact on global civilization, including the immediate destruction, long-term environmental damage, and the eventual collapse of societal structures. Jacobsen's work serves as a call to action for disarmament and a stark reminder of the existential threat posed by nuclear weapons.