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No Better Friend, No Worse Enemy: The Life of General James Mattis
The first in-depth look at the marine hero who has become one of the most beloved and admired men in America Secretary of Defense James Mattis.
A devout student of history and erudite reader revered by rank and file soldiers, officers, academics, politicians, and ordinary citizens, General James Mattis is one of the most admired leaders serving America today. A man who has long used his position as a model for the soldiers he leads, Mattis in 2003 shared a "Message to All Hands" with the men and women under his command, outlining their responsibilities as soldiers of the corps. Emphasizing the importance of the mission and the goal to act with honor, Mattis ended with the motto he had adopted from another great figure, Roman general Lucius Cornelius "Demonstrate to the world that there is ‘No Better Friend, No Worse Enemy’ than a US Marine."
The first Trump presidential cabinet nominee, Mattis, retired from activity military duty for only three years at the time, received a rare Congressional waiver to hold the civilian position of Secretary of Defense, and in the hyper-partisan political atmosphere of 2017, astonishingly received nearly unanimous, bipartisan support for his nomination. After months of headline-making chaos involving the White House, Mattis remains one of the few widely revered members of the Trump administration.
In this illuminating biography, Jim Proser looks beyond Mattis’ professional competence to focus on the driving element behind Mattis’ his unimpeachable character—a formidable personal integrity that fosters universal confidence. Proser carefully examines the events of Mattis’ life and career to reveal a man who leads with insight, humor, fighting courage, and fierce compassion—not only for his fellow Marines, but for the innocent victims of war. Chronicling how Mattis’ martial and personal values have elevated him to the highest levels of personal success and earned him the trust of a nation, Proser makes clear how America is stronger because of his service and his example.
A devout student of history and erudite reader revered by rank and file soldiers, officers, academics, politicians, and ordinary citizens, General James Mattis is one of the most admired leaders serving America today. A man who has long used his position as a model for the soldiers he leads, Mattis in 2003 shared a "Message to All Hands" with the men and women under his command, outlining their responsibilities as soldiers of the corps. Emphasizing the importance of the mission and the goal to act with honor, Mattis ended with the motto he had adopted from another great figure, Roman general Lucius Cornelius "Demonstrate to the world that there is ‘No Better Friend, No Worse Enemy’ than a US Marine."
The first Trump presidential cabinet nominee, Mattis, retired from activity military duty for only three years at the time, received a rare Congressional waiver to hold the civilian position of Secretary of Defense, and in the hyper-partisan political atmosphere of 2017, astonishingly received nearly unanimous, bipartisan support for his nomination. After months of headline-making chaos involving the White House, Mattis remains one of the few widely revered members of the Trump administration.
In this illuminating biography, Jim Proser looks beyond Mattis’ professional competence to focus on the driving element behind Mattis’ his unimpeachable character—a formidable personal integrity that fosters universal confidence. Proser carefully examines the events of Mattis’ life and career to reveal a man who leads with insight, humor, fighting courage, and fierce compassion—not only for his fellow Marines, but for the innocent victims of war. Chronicling how Mattis’ martial and personal values have elevated him to the highest levels of personal success and earned him the trust of a nation, Proser makes clear how America is stronger because of his service and his example.
277 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 7, 2018
323 people are currently reading
798 people want to read
About the author
Jim Proser
7 books22 followersI dropped out of high school, disdained college and paid no attention to the prominent connections my father had in the entertainment industry. I was determined to survive, or not, simply by my natural grit, work ethic, talent and luck. I failed a lot. I succeeded occasionally and I'm proud of those achievements. I do regret, at this late point in my life, that I always chose the hard way of the lone wolf. I realize now that I was an angry young man with something, or everything, to prove.
My regrets I hope will be the seeds of a greater understanding that I can convey to young people considering a similar path. Writing is the greatest job in the world but everybody doesn't have to start from zero like I did. The world will see your light, you just have to keep the flame inside you burning brightly. Be prepared to accept a life of failure without becoming resigned to it. You will succeed in small ways and occasionally in large ones if you're lucky. The work is the same. Be a writer. Temper the steel in your soul and keep your hand of friendship open to everyone, even friends you haven't earned.
My regrets I hope will be the seeds of a greater understanding that I can convey to young people considering a similar path. Writing is the greatest job in the world but everybody doesn't have to start from zero like I did. The world will see your light, you just have to keep the flame inside you burning brightly. Be prepared to accept a life of failure without becoming resigned to it. You will succeed in small ways and occasionally in large ones if you're lucky. The work is the same. Be a writer. Temper the steel in your soul and keep your hand of friendship open to everyone, even friends you haven't earned.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
December 29, 2018
I listened to the audiobook edition while tucking. It was a great book to listen to and I learned much more about General Mattis, who is one hell of a Marine and combat veteran. Care deeply about his marines and trusted them to do their jobs, even with everything on the line.
November 22, 2019
I wanted to learn more about Mattis and am certainly impressed with his resume. It was helpful to better understand how Mattis got to become Secretary of Defense and his devotion to the Marine Corps. What the author didn’t do well was tell his story like a grand odyssey and thus the book reads like a long Wikipedia entry.
January 31, 2021
A banal hagiography. It seems Mattis did not cooperate with the project, so all the analysis of his character and approach come at a distance and from published accounts.
Given that distance, most of the book is filled with war stories, especially from the first and second Gulf Wars and Afghanistan. Mattis appears this invincible super soldier, standing guard over the nation, always with a copy of some ancient classic on hand to know that nothing has changed in 5000 years.
I've only heard Mattis speak in person once, and while I admire the man, I couldn't understand his obsession with Iran, a small, largely irrelevant country for US security interests. The one thing this book taught me was that Mattis was deployed to the Middle East during the US's response to the 1979 Iranian revolution and hostage crisis. Which, along with the 1983 Beirut bombing helps explain his 40 year concern.
Mattis' own book (which came out after Proser's book) is a better read, though I think we're still awaiting someone with the distance and intellect to provide a first-rate assessment of this modern day stoic.
Given that distance, most of the book is filled with war stories, especially from the first and second Gulf Wars and Afghanistan. Mattis appears this invincible super soldier, standing guard over the nation, always with a copy of some ancient classic on hand to know that nothing has changed in 5000 years.
I've only heard Mattis speak in person once, and while I admire the man, I couldn't understand his obsession with Iran, a small, largely irrelevant country for US security interests. The one thing this book taught me was that Mattis was deployed to the Middle East during the US's response to the 1979 Iranian revolution and hostage crisis. Which, along with the 1983 Beirut bombing helps explain his 40 year concern.
Mattis' own book (which came out after Proser's book) is a better read, though I think we're still awaiting someone with the distance and intellect to provide a first-rate assessment of this modern day stoic.
September 26, 2018
Very worthwhile book that covers the life to date of James Mattis, US Secretary of Defense.
It bordered on being a hagiography at times, but the connections between events (Kobar bombing, Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, 1991-Iraq/Kuwait war, the 1993 Twin Towers bombing, 9-11, and the 2003 Iraq war) and depth of detail by the author concerning Mattis's career was very illuminating.
The book suffered at the end. Little detail was provided (in comparison to the Mattis's early career), and left me wanting another chapter or two to complete the journey to date.
It bordered on being a hagiography at times, but the connections between events (Kobar bombing, Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, 1991-Iraq/Kuwait war, the 1993 Twin Towers bombing, 9-11, and the 2003 Iraq war) and depth of detail by the author concerning Mattis's career was very illuminating.
The book suffered at the end. Little detail was provided (in comparison to the Mattis's early career), and left me wanting another chapter or two to complete the journey to date.
April 1, 2019
What an outstanding person and leader! James seems like a down to earth person that values everything this life has to offer. I feel like I got to peek into the mind of a genius. The only issue I had with the book is the long drawn out battle descriptions. I feel like some could have been a little summarized. Good read overall though!
December 21, 2018
This is the first book on James Mattis. Mattis is probably our generation’s best combat general. A career Marine who served in uniform for forty four years he also went on to become the Secretary of Defense and one who received nearly unanimous bipartisan support for his nomination which is quite impressive in a day and age of much political division and partisanship in the United States. For years I have been amazed at how low profile General Mattis have been compared to how much public attention the US media has given other Army generals. It seem overnight a few years ago Mattis started to finally receive a lot of attention and praise and usually through the medium of social media making jokes about his exploits and strength. Yet people’s hunger to know more about this tough talking and private general has only increased when news broke that Trump wanted him to be Secretary of Defense. Personally as a Marine who served under General Mattis’ 1st Marine Division in Iraq I am glad that the author wrote this book. I actually think it has been long overdue.
While the book comes in at 416 pages don’t let the number fool you. The book’s font is rather large print. After an introduction there are ten chapters followed by an epilogue. The work is written in a journalistic style. The author Jim Proser didn’t narrate chronologically but each chapter goes back and forth in time. For instance the first four chapters focus largely on the invasion of Iraq in 2003 but then chapter five looks at a Jim Mattis’ youth and also his interests of a young woman that he almost married but didn’t. Jim Mattis would go on to become a lifelong bachelor with the nickname of Warrior Monk (among other things such as Chaos). Then chapter six looks at Mattis pre-Gulf War Marine Corps career followed by a chapter on Mattis’ service during the Gulf War. Chapter eight explores the pre-9/11 years while chapter nine looks at Mattis leading Task Force 58 which was the Marine and Navy task force that spearheaded the invasion into Afghanistan. Chapter ten then looks at Mattis’ involvement in Iraq after the Iraq war invasion.
It felt the first four chapters quoted a lot more online internet sources that many fans of Mattis would have been familiar with through searches engines of the internet. Also the book quotes heavily from Generation Kill in the opening of the book and Thomas Ricks’ books and articles throughout the book (who is a writer with excellent insight by the way). For those who have read these works at times it seems the block quotes from these works was a revisit of previous materials. Yet I don’t want to fault the author too much since the author is writing about a man who would not enjoy the limelight and no sources of this book came from direct interviews of Mattis as far as I can tell from the end notes. The part of the book that I thought was the most richest in terms of new contents comes from the book’s look at Mattis’ early years, Mattis’ leadership in the Persian Gulf War and also the invasion of Afghanistan. Here the author is to be commended for the great work of personal interviews with Mattis’ superiors and subordinates. Also there’s sources from Mattis’ career record, other official studies and publication and those who fought under Mattis. I learned the most from this book in those time of Mattis’ life. As a result of reading this book I appreciated not just only Mattis but Marine Desert Storm veterans much more as a result of hearing what Mattis’ infantry battalion and his task force went through during the invasion of Kuwait. I was genuinely surprised to learned that at one point Mattis’ unit was surrounded by the enemy in the front and rear of where they were at; that’s pretty crazy! Also I appreciated reading about the incredible feat of Mattis in mobile warfare while also being an expert of counterinsurgency. It is not every day that you get a military expert in either of those area but to have a guy expert in one is truly incredible. Also it is incredible to think that General Mattis led not just only the invasion of Afghanistan but also Iraq. Most people might be accustom to think of General being in a place safer than the average grunt but what I appreciate the most about Mattis from this book is his love for the infantry. He would be visiting the front often. Also I was very moved to read of the danger Mattis put himself in in order to lead effectively. His “jump platoon” that protected him received higher casualties than any infantry platoon in the Marines; out of 29 Marines 17 would be killed or wounded. The book talks about Mattis’ convoy being ambushed in Afghanistan and his escort taking casualties and killing the insurgents with Mattis’ uniform being bloodied as he showed up late to the meeting with the local leaders will blood on his uniform. This was the context for the (in)famous quote where Mattis said he didn’t bring the artillery but he pleads with tears in his eyes not to mess with him.
A book that was worth reading. A book worth buying. I hope more critical and analytical biographies would come out on Mattis in the future.
While the book comes in at 416 pages don’t let the number fool you. The book’s font is rather large print. After an introduction there are ten chapters followed by an epilogue. The work is written in a journalistic style. The author Jim Proser didn’t narrate chronologically but each chapter goes back and forth in time. For instance the first four chapters focus largely on the invasion of Iraq in 2003 but then chapter five looks at a Jim Mattis’ youth and also his interests of a young woman that he almost married but didn’t. Jim Mattis would go on to become a lifelong bachelor with the nickname of Warrior Monk (among other things such as Chaos). Then chapter six looks at Mattis pre-Gulf War Marine Corps career followed by a chapter on Mattis’ service during the Gulf War. Chapter eight explores the pre-9/11 years while chapter nine looks at Mattis leading Task Force 58 which was the Marine and Navy task force that spearheaded the invasion into Afghanistan. Chapter ten then looks at Mattis’ involvement in Iraq after the Iraq war invasion.
It felt the first four chapters quoted a lot more online internet sources that many fans of Mattis would have been familiar with through searches engines of the internet. Also the book quotes heavily from Generation Kill in the opening of the book and Thomas Ricks’ books and articles throughout the book (who is a writer with excellent insight by the way). For those who have read these works at times it seems the block quotes from these works was a revisit of previous materials. Yet I don’t want to fault the author too much since the author is writing about a man who would not enjoy the limelight and no sources of this book came from direct interviews of Mattis as far as I can tell from the end notes. The part of the book that I thought was the most richest in terms of new contents comes from the book’s look at Mattis’ early years, Mattis’ leadership in the Persian Gulf War and also the invasion of Afghanistan. Here the author is to be commended for the great work of personal interviews with Mattis’ superiors and subordinates. Also there’s sources from Mattis’ career record, other official studies and publication and those who fought under Mattis. I learned the most from this book in those time of Mattis’ life. As a result of reading this book I appreciated not just only Mattis but Marine Desert Storm veterans much more as a result of hearing what Mattis’ infantry battalion and his task force went through during the invasion of Kuwait. I was genuinely surprised to learned that at one point Mattis’ unit was surrounded by the enemy in the front and rear of where they were at; that’s pretty crazy! Also I appreciated reading about the incredible feat of Mattis in mobile warfare while also being an expert of counterinsurgency. It is not every day that you get a military expert in either of those area but to have a guy expert in one is truly incredible. Also it is incredible to think that General Mattis led not just only the invasion of Afghanistan but also Iraq. Most people might be accustom to think of General being in a place safer than the average grunt but what I appreciate the most about Mattis from this book is his love for the infantry. He would be visiting the front often. Also I was very moved to read of the danger Mattis put himself in in order to lead effectively. His “jump platoon” that protected him received higher casualties than any infantry platoon in the Marines; out of 29 Marines 17 would be killed or wounded. The book talks about Mattis’ convoy being ambushed in Afghanistan and his escort taking casualties and killing the insurgents with Mattis’ uniform being bloodied as he showed up late to the meeting with the local leaders will blood on his uniform. This was the context for the (in)famous quote where Mattis said he didn’t bring the artillery but he pleads with tears in his eyes not to mess with him.
A book that was worth reading. A book worth buying. I hope more critical and analytical biographies would come out on Mattis in the future.
April 12, 2019
I guess it was the nick name "Mad Dog" that gave me a negative image of the General, but after reading the book on his career and finding out that he was steeped in knowledge of history and used it to his advantage, he is now raised in stature in my mind.
While short at times on diplomatic/public relations skills, his men were devoted to him and, as he said, the Marines accomplished great things by taking part of Afghanistan and then had the good sense to give it back to the Afghan people. And then others were in charge.
What's missing from the book is the two years he served as Secretary of Defense from January 2017 through December 2018. It's not like a man like Mathis to give up a position, but when the Commander in Chief won't listen, the only option is to resign. More is the pity.
While short at times on diplomatic/public relations skills, his men were devoted to him and, as he said, the Marines accomplished great things by taking part of Afghanistan and then had the good sense to give it back to the Afghan people. And then others were in charge.
What's missing from the book is the two years he served as Secretary of Defense from January 2017 through December 2018. It's not like a man like Mathis to give up a position, but when the Commander in Chief won't listen, the only option is to resign. More is the pity.
November 24, 2018
As I read this "Life of General Mattis", there are questions swirling around the media asking if Trump will fire him from his Secretary of Defense position. Currently Mattis has told the troops on the Mexican Border not to read media about what they are doing but to do what their superiors say to do.
Enjoyed the way the book was easy to read when not trying to read every word in the battle scenes. What I liked was the description of Mattis' character, beliefs and way he studied history to came up with strategies to reuse and others that are totally new and his. His attention to doing with passion what has been best for the country in his view makes him a standout in todays world.
Enjoyed the way the book was easy to read when not trying to read every word in the battle scenes. What I liked was the description of Mattis' character, beliefs and way he studied history to came up with strategies to reuse and others that are totally new and his. His attention to doing with passion what has been best for the country in his view makes him a standout in todays world.
December 22, 2018
Just finished No Better Friend, No Worse Enemy: The Life of General James Mattis by Jim Proser, a book recommended to me by a retired Marine buddy. The timing of reading this book in light of this past week’s headlines is fortuitous. Jim Mattis is brilliant yet humble man, notably refereed to as the Warrior Monk, a nickname he much prefers to Mad Dog. He is a really interesting person, life long bachelor, food bank volunteer, carries his own bags, extremely well read, the list goes on and on. I highly recommend this book!
January 12, 2019
I’m a huge fan of General Mattis but this book was disappointing. It was largely a rehash of many articles I’ve read about him. I had hoped for a more intimate portrayal of the General but this felt more like a reporter writing from the sidelines. There was very limited discussion of his life beyond his major campaigns in Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom. The most enjoyable parts for me were reading about his interactions with his troops and his relationships with other leaders. I am proud to have served during his tenure as SECDEF.
July 30, 2018
Soooo military heavy. Good writing and I love the insight into Mattis' life but the military scenes really wore me out. However, if you LIKE military scenes (active duty type stuff and strategy) you'll LOVE this book. I liked the inclusion of interviews Mattis has done during the years.
July 27, 2019
Disappointing, story starts in the middle, moves to the beginning, and then jumps around. Most of the book is related from excerpts of other books. Very little new information and what there is, is poorly presented. It is ok if you know nothing about Jim Mattis, but if you do it is a let down.
June 4, 2019
I read this because James Mattia is from Central Washington & held the post of Secretary of Defense for Donald Trump.he is a no nonsense kind of guy, as you’d expect with someone who held that position.his roots in the military run deep. I suspect that we’ll see him again.
May 29, 2019
Great book. Amazing man. A little too deep into the endeavors of the Marines and the military as a whole.
October 7, 2018
This book increases my admiration for the current Secretary of Defense, General James “Mad Dog” Mattis. With the nickname of “The Warrior Monk” and his studying of history in the carrying out of war and conflict. His humility, dedication of service, studying of conflicts and lessons learned from others who’ve gone before us. He really is a remarkable leader that Americans should be proud and glad he is at the top. Learning more about him personally was also cool, such as reasons he’s stayed a bachelor, his role in the Iraq war and how he was unanimously confirmed beyond party lines despite being disqualified for his recent service in the military. It’s also inspiring that he has a personal library of over 7,000 books which he’s read. This book explains why he is a better person to have as a friend and how you couldn’t find a worse person to be an enemy against. This is worth reading if you want to understand current events and military conflict and strategies better. I would love to see what his library consists of and his thoughts on those books. As it would be a serious masterclass to gain knowledge and insight from. This book mentions his thoughts on a few books and how it influenced his thinking, but it only scrapes the surface. Will look forward to reading his memoir one day.
June 9, 2020
Jim Mattis deserves better. I struggled between a 2 and 5 rating -- a 3 is generous.
The author / editors were sloppy - as a Marine I grimaced over things like:
Overstating the number killed in Tet Offensive as 10,000. TYotal of US / South Vietnamese deaths were estimated as between 2,500 and 3,500 - with about 1,100 US troops
Says Camp Pendleton is 5 miles from San Diego airport - its 40 miles.
Refers to George W. Bush as a "former military commander". He was a pilot, a 1st Lt., and his service in the Texas National Guard and assignment to the Alabama National Guard remain controversial as to his fulfillment of his duties, He wasn't a "commander".
Refers to "Third Marine Battalion of the Third Marine Division (3/3)" 3/3 would be the 3rd Battalion - 3rd Regiment (yes its 3/3 is in 3rd MarDiv, but there are more than one 3rd Battalion in a Division)
Says a Marine officer was a "machine gunner" - not an officer billet.
Author says the
Sometimes he got it - other times I was scratching my head.
I love General Mattis - hope he gets the biography he deserves.
The author / editors were sloppy - as a Marine I grimaced over things like:
Overstating the number killed in Tet Offensive as 10,000. TYotal of US / South Vietnamese deaths were estimated as between 2,500 and 3,500 - with about 1,100 US troops
Says Camp Pendleton is 5 miles from San Diego airport - its 40 miles.
Refers to George W. Bush as a "former military commander". He was a pilot, a 1st Lt., and his service in the Texas National Guard and assignment to the Alabama National Guard remain controversial as to his fulfillment of his duties, He wasn't a "commander".
Refers to "Third Marine Battalion of the Third Marine Division (3/3)" 3/3 would be the 3rd Battalion - 3rd Regiment (yes its 3/3 is in 3rd MarDiv, but there are more than one 3rd Battalion in a Division)
Says a Marine officer was a "machine gunner" - not an officer billet.
Author says the
Sometimes he got it - other times I was scratching my head.
I love General Mattis - hope he gets the biography he deserves.
October 11, 2018
You can't go wrong with General Jim Mattis. On a personal basis or on a professional basis, this is the man to emulate. The writing is crisp, reveals things I didn't know (he's from Richland, WA; he got sucked in by the Theranos garbage show; he doesn't like the nickname Mad Dog). Some of the quotes are semi-famous, but others, like the one about making it a traumatic experience for the enemy, are not.
I also got a very interesting insight about Donald Rumsfeld who plays some role in this: leaning out the Pentagon was the right thing to do. However, the way you run the Pentagon is NOT the way you take over Iraq, with minimum personnel.
I'll be taking notes on this book before returning it to the library. Highly recommended.
I also got a very interesting insight about Donald Rumsfeld who plays some role in this: leaning out the Pentagon was the right thing to do. However, the way you run the Pentagon is NOT the way you take over Iraq, with minimum personnel.
I'll be taking notes on this book before returning it to the library. Highly recommended.
October 31, 2018
The title of this book is a phrase taken by General Mattis from a great Roman general, as a motto for a marine. He lives a life of strong moral values and strict code of conduct and wanted all Marines to feel that they personally could be a standard bearer for No Better Friend, No Worse Enemy. The majority of the book deals with his life in service and his drive to help everyone he meets. Chosen by President Trump for Secretary of Defense he is admired by many in Washington, D.C. A wonderful biography of a man who has dedicated his life to service. I received a copy of this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
January 3, 2019
Fantastic book and I did not want to put it down. Proser has done a fantastic job writing about one of America's premier leaders and warriors. A man Proser describes as a Spartan warrior leading a spartan life. Mattis is a down-to-earth leader and cares about those under his charge. A Marine that carried the burden of command and loved those who served with him. Proser cites an example of General Mattis' leadership when he is found inside a fighting hole carrying on a conversation with two of his Marines in the cold, dark, and desolate Afghan desert. As a Marine I highly recommend this book to other Marines and to anyone who is a leader or aspires to be a leader.
February 3, 2019
Much like Mattis, Proser unwinds the life of Gen Mattis in straightforward, unadulterated prose. However, the book is long on strategy and tactics and far too succinct on Mattis' life; which has to be more than just Jim Mattis the Marine. Ergo, the 4-star rating.
Much like Trump, what you see is what you get in Jim Mattis. He puts on no aires. And you have to love a warrior who loves his troops and leads by example. This is a man's man. One you would share your foxhole with 24/7. It's a real shame his former boss doesn't embrace his leadership qualities. This nation would be far better off under the leadership of James Mattis.
Much like Trump, what you see is what you get in Jim Mattis. He puts on no aires. And you have to love a warrior who loves his troops and leads by example. This is a man's man. One you would share your foxhole with 24/7. It's a real shame his former boss doesn't embrace his leadership qualities. This nation would be far better off under the leadership of James Mattis.
March 25, 2019
Enjoyed this book on Mattis, though it's a bit less of a biography and more concentrated looks at particular military operations he's been involved in over the last three decades. Can't say I understood the nuances of all the fight, but it's always thought provoking to think about military strategy, leadership, and history. The book gave me a greater appreciation for the work our military does, particularly in the Middle East. The one drawback for me was was I wished there was more broader biographical insight into his life.
December 11, 2018
Thoroughly enjoyed and appreciated this look at Secretary of Defense James Mattis. My only reservation is that I wish that it had delved a bit more deeply into Mattis' life prior to the Marine Corps, but the substance of it spot on. I can think of no better way to a get a clear picture of the sort of man who currently leads the Department of Defense.
October 13, 2018
If you are purchasing this to read about General Mattis's life, this is not the book for you. About 95% of this is about battles led by Mad Dog. This is a good book if you are big on military actions, but not for those who do not like historical events.
October 16, 2018
Good book about a incredible Marine. Heavy on miltary terminology, battle planning, and action, which bogged me down a bit as that's not necessarily in my wheelhouse. That said, it was fascinating to get into the mind of the Warrior Monk, a truly exceptional leader. Semper fidelis, General Mattis.
December 20, 2018
Not the book i expected
I was expecting a in-depth look at the Sec Def's life. Instead I got a book with a decent timeline of his time in the Middle East with a few details about his life. Still a good read though.
I was expecting a in-depth look at the Sec Def's life. Instead I got a book with a decent timeline of his time in the Middle East with a few details about his life. Still a good read though.
January 3, 2019
Great book
Only into chapter three and an already convinced this is a great book!!
Wasn't quite sure why he stayed with Trump. But John Kelly cleared it up. "Marines don't quite". Thanks for the book
Only into chapter three and an already convinced this is a great book!!
Wasn't quite sure why he stayed with Trump. But John Kelly cleared it up. "Marines don't quite". Thanks for the book
January 29, 2019
I think this book would be better described as a study of the wars in the Middle East with added emphasis on General Mattis. However, it was a perfect length and kept me interested from start to end.
August 7, 2018
‘Mattis and Trump agree that, unlike previous administrations, there will be no public discussion of American military plans or timetables ‘
Florida author Jim Proser began his professional writing career at age 15 as a city reporter for the Lambertville (NJ) Beacon newspaper and as a regional photojournalist for the Bucks County Courier Times. He went on as a journalist to write interviews of business leaders for the Investor's Business Daily. He has written screenplays for film and television producers including 20th Century Fox Television, Showtime Networks and numerous independent producers. He is best known for his major work I’M STAYING WITH MY BOYS – both the novel and the screenplay – the book being awarded the United States Marine Corps Commandant's Recommendation.
In this homage to Mattis, Jim Proser writes in the manner that Mattes lives and thinks and speaks. Evidence of the tone of this biography opens his book:’ Mattis, a blunt, smart warfighter and a lifelong bachelor, has dedicated his life completely to the success and safety of the warriors he commands. In return, he is deeply beloved by them. His constant study of history and philosophy has earned him the affectionate nickname the Warrior Monk and made being smart and well-read cool, elevating the sometimes anti-intellectual, tribal Marine culture. He ordered every Marine in the First Division to read Russell Braddon’s The Siege, which follows the ill-fated British Expeditionary Force during World War I in what was then called Mesopotamia. Mattis wants every Marine to understand the inhospitable Iraqi terrain and the mistakes that cost the British twenty-five thousand men. His voice is calm and loud, with a slight sibilance that softens some of his s’s. He speaks without notes, hands on hips or in “knife-hand” gestures, fixing his attention on individual Marines as he scans the rows of officers from the front to the back of the room. Marine commanders sit in rows before him now, Third Air Wing pilots up front in tan flight suits, pistols strapped across their chests, ground commanders behind them in desert camouflage. They are silent, intent on every word. Among the commanders is Lieutenant Colonel Stanton Coerr who later reports on this meeting, “Gentlemen, this is going to be the most air-centric division in the history of warfare,” Mattis says. “Don’t you worry about the lack of shaping; if we need to kill something, it is going to get killed. I would storm the gates of Hell if Third Marine Air Wing was overhead.”5 By shaping, he means shaping of the battlefield by air power and artillery. This is usually the preparation for battle meant to find and exploit the enemy’s weakest spot. But instead of shaping, Mattis’s new “maneuver warfare” relies on speed and mobility, as he then makes clear with typical good humor.’
For those unfamiliar with the character of James Mattis the book summary offers the essentials ‘The first in-depth look at the marine hero who has become one of the most beloved and admired men in America today: Secretary of Defense James Mattis. A devout student of history and erudite reader revered by rank and file soldiers, officers, academics, politicians, and ordinary citizens, General James Mattis is one of the most admired leaders serving America today. A man who has long used his position as a model for the soldiers he leads, Mattis in 2003 shared a "Message to All Hands" with the men and women under his command, outlining their responsibilities as soldiers of the corps. Emphasizing the importance of the mission and the goal to act with honor, Mattis ended with the motto he had adopted from another great figure, Roman general Lucius Cornelius Sulla: "Demonstrate to the world that there is ‘No Better Friend, No Worse Enemy’ than a US Marine." The first Trump presidential cabinet nominee, Mattis, retired from activity military duty for only three years at the time, received a rare Congressional waiver to hold the civilian position of Secretary of Defense, and in the hyper-partisan political atmosphere of 2017, astonishingly received nearly unanimous, bipartisan support for his nomination. After months of headline-making chaos involving the White House, Mattis remains one of the few widely revered members of the Trump administration. Jim Proser looks beyond Mattis’ professional competence to focus on the driving element behind Mattis’ success: his unimpeachable character—a formidable personal integrity that fosters universal confidence. Proser carefully examines the events of Mattis’ life and career to reveal a man who leads with insight, humor, fighting courage, and fierce compassion—not only for his fellow Marines, but for the innocent victims of war. Chronicling how Mattis’ martial and personal values have elevated him to the highest levels of personal success and earned him the trust of a nation, Proser makes clear how America is stronger because of his service and his example.’
Proser reveals the man James Mattis – a unique individual in the otherwise disappointingly dark cabinet of Trump. There is hope here.
Florida author Jim Proser began his professional writing career at age 15 as a city reporter for the Lambertville (NJ) Beacon newspaper and as a regional photojournalist for the Bucks County Courier Times. He went on as a journalist to write interviews of business leaders for the Investor's Business Daily. He has written screenplays for film and television producers including 20th Century Fox Television, Showtime Networks and numerous independent producers. He is best known for his major work I’M STAYING WITH MY BOYS – both the novel and the screenplay – the book being awarded the United States Marine Corps Commandant's Recommendation.
In this homage to Mattis, Jim Proser writes in the manner that Mattes lives and thinks and speaks. Evidence of the tone of this biography opens his book:’ Mattis, a blunt, smart warfighter and a lifelong bachelor, has dedicated his life completely to the success and safety of the warriors he commands. In return, he is deeply beloved by them. His constant study of history and philosophy has earned him the affectionate nickname the Warrior Monk and made being smart and well-read cool, elevating the sometimes anti-intellectual, tribal Marine culture. He ordered every Marine in the First Division to read Russell Braddon’s The Siege, which follows the ill-fated British Expeditionary Force during World War I in what was then called Mesopotamia. Mattis wants every Marine to understand the inhospitable Iraqi terrain and the mistakes that cost the British twenty-five thousand men. His voice is calm and loud, with a slight sibilance that softens some of his s’s. He speaks without notes, hands on hips or in “knife-hand” gestures, fixing his attention on individual Marines as he scans the rows of officers from the front to the back of the room. Marine commanders sit in rows before him now, Third Air Wing pilots up front in tan flight suits, pistols strapped across their chests, ground commanders behind them in desert camouflage. They are silent, intent on every word. Among the commanders is Lieutenant Colonel Stanton Coerr who later reports on this meeting, “Gentlemen, this is going to be the most air-centric division in the history of warfare,” Mattis says. “Don’t you worry about the lack of shaping; if we need to kill something, it is going to get killed. I would storm the gates of Hell if Third Marine Air Wing was overhead.”5 By shaping, he means shaping of the battlefield by air power and artillery. This is usually the preparation for battle meant to find and exploit the enemy’s weakest spot. But instead of shaping, Mattis’s new “maneuver warfare” relies on speed and mobility, as he then makes clear with typical good humor.’
For those unfamiliar with the character of James Mattis the book summary offers the essentials ‘The first in-depth look at the marine hero who has become one of the most beloved and admired men in America today: Secretary of Defense James Mattis. A devout student of history and erudite reader revered by rank and file soldiers, officers, academics, politicians, and ordinary citizens, General James Mattis is one of the most admired leaders serving America today. A man who has long used his position as a model for the soldiers he leads, Mattis in 2003 shared a "Message to All Hands" with the men and women under his command, outlining their responsibilities as soldiers of the corps. Emphasizing the importance of the mission and the goal to act with honor, Mattis ended with the motto he had adopted from another great figure, Roman general Lucius Cornelius Sulla: "Demonstrate to the world that there is ‘No Better Friend, No Worse Enemy’ than a US Marine." The first Trump presidential cabinet nominee, Mattis, retired from activity military duty for only three years at the time, received a rare Congressional waiver to hold the civilian position of Secretary of Defense, and in the hyper-partisan political atmosphere of 2017, astonishingly received nearly unanimous, bipartisan support for his nomination. After months of headline-making chaos involving the White House, Mattis remains one of the few widely revered members of the Trump administration. Jim Proser looks beyond Mattis’ professional competence to focus on the driving element behind Mattis’ success: his unimpeachable character—a formidable personal integrity that fosters universal confidence. Proser carefully examines the events of Mattis’ life and career to reveal a man who leads with insight, humor, fighting courage, and fierce compassion—not only for his fellow Marines, but for the innocent victims of war. Chronicling how Mattis’ martial and personal values have elevated him to the highest levels of personal success and earned him the trust of a nation, Proser makes clear how America is stronger because of his service and his example.’
Proser reveals the man James Mattis – a unique individual in the otherwise disappointingly dark cabinet of Trump. There is hope here.
August 27, 2018
Amazing man!
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