Marine Maxims: Turning Leadership Principles into Practice

by Thomas J. Gordon

Marine Maxims is a collection of fifty principle-based leadership lessons that Thomas J. Gordon acquired commanding Marines over a career spanning three decades of service. Dealing with the complexities and challenges of the contemporary operating environment requires an internal moral compass fixed true. These maxims focus on developing inner citadels of character, moral courage, and the resilience to persevere in a contested domain where information is key. Its purpose is to provide future leaders with a professional development plan that will steel their resolve and enable them to lead with honor.

Thematically, these maxims build upon a foundation of character, courage, and will. To be effective, a leader must model and inspire the will to persevere in the face of danger or adversity. The essence of effective leadership is credibility. A leader's credibility is derived from a congruence of competence and character. Exceptional leaders are not remembered for what they accomplished, but how they did it. Those that lead with integrity will be remembered as a leader worth following.

368 pages, Hardcover

Published November 10, 2021

Reviews

[Gregg · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a must read for all Marine Corps officers. If this is not added to the next iteration of the Commandant’s reading list then the CMC list is not properly curated. This book is full of timeless and relevant leadership advice with pertinent anecdotes and war stories. The organization makes sense and is easy to follow and reference. My copy is highlighted with notes in the margins—it is now a permanent part of my professional gear.

[Lucas Gabella · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book full of wisdom! I took away alot from this one. A must read for any service member that wants to work on their leadership and had a share of civilian side applications too. Although it is primarily geared towards Marine Officers.

[Joseph Sporleder · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read for young and old leaders alike. Marine Maxims present many tools to put into your toolbox. If you’re already implementing some of the citadels it’s a great reminder and self reflection.