317: Self-Reliance, Self-Control, and Initiative. What We Learn from "Infantry Squad Leader: Combat Leadership" Manual

The Forgotten Soldier is a memoir by Guy Sajer, detailing his experiences as a teenager in the German army during World War II. The book provides a vivid and brutal portrayal of life on the Eastern Front, focusing on the psychological journey of a soldier amidst the horrors of war. It is known for its lyrical storytelling and honest depiction of the deprivations and terror faced by soldiers.

About Face is a compelling memoir by Colonel David Hackworth, detailing his experiences in the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Hackworth's candid account offers a critical perspective on military leadership and policy, highlighting the challenges faced by soldiers on the ground. The book is known for its unflinching portrayal of combat and its insightful analysis of military strategy and politics. It also provides a personal reflection on the psychological toll of war and the importance of soldier welfare. Hackworth's writing style is direct and engaging, making the book accessible to a wide audience.

Guadalcanal Diary is a firsthand account of the pivotal battle for Guadalcanal, where Tregaskis embedded with the U.S. Marine Corps during the early stages of the campaign. The book provides a vivid and detailed portrayal of life on the front lines, offering insights into the daily struggles and heroic actions of the soldiers. Originally published in 1943, it became a classic of World War II literature.

Men Against Fire, published in 1947, is a seminal work by S. L. A. Marshall that explores the psychological and behavioral aspects of soldiers in combat. Marshall's controversial assertion that only a small percentage of soldiers actually fired their weapons in combat sparked significant debate and influenced military training doctrines. The book remains a critical study in understanding combat effectiveness and the psychological factors affecting soldiers' actions during war.

This book by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin focuses on the principle of 'Extreme Ownership,' where leaders take full responsibility for their actions and decisions. The authors use their experiences in the U.S. Navy SEALs to illustrate how this mindset can lead to success in any organization. The book covers various principles such as believing in the mission, checking ego, and leading by example. It emphasizes that leaders must own all failures, develop plans to overcome them, and ensure their teams are well-conditioned and aligned with the mission. The authors also stress the importance of humility, discipline, and effective communication in leadership.

This book explores the motivations behind soldiers' actions in battle, examining psychological factors and their impact on combat performance. It provides insights into how soldiers are motivated and how these motivations affect their behavior during military engagements.

Battle at Best by S.L. A. Marshall tells the stories of soldiers in key battles, including Omaha Beach, the liberation of Paris, and the Korean War. The book provides a firsthand account of the experiences of soldiers in these significant conflicts. Marshall's work is known for its detailed historical insights and personal narratives from the battlefield.

Battle Leadership by Adolf von Schell is a personal account of his experiences as a junior officer in the German Army during World War I. The book explores key principles of effective leadership in combat, including character, psychology, personal courage, and adaptability. It emphasizes the importance of understanding soldier psychology and leading by example to maintain morale and achieve battlefield success.

Battle Studies by Ardant du Picq is a seminal work that explores the nature of warfare by focusing on the psychological and physical demands faced by soldiers. It emphasizes the importance of morale, leadership, and the human element in combat, drawing from du Picq's military experiences and historical analyses. The book remains influential for its insights into the timeless aspects of human behavior in conflict.

This memoir continues John Masters' story from where 'Bugles and a Tiger' left off, detailing his experiences with the Chindits during World War II. It provides a vivid account of continuous combat and personal reflections on war, love, and the changing world around him. Masters also shares his perspectives on notable figures like General Slim and Orde Wingate.