Posted on Jan 10, 2016
What books or reading lists would you suggest for professional development, personal development and leadership improvement? Non-mil as well
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Posted 10 y ago
Responses: 45
SSG Micah Wilson I would recommend 'A Vietnam War Story'
The book "every American should read" (Vietnam) now available in trade paperback. Here is the powerful story of one man's fight against bigotry, paralysis and his war enemy that led to the Medal of Honor. From migrant farm-worker and middle-school dropout to recipient of his country's highest award for bravery, Roy Benavidez demonstrated the courage and fortitude of an American hero. The half-Yaqui Indian, half-Mexican orphan fought his way out of the bigotry of South Texas to serve with the Army's elite -- the Special Forces. In February, 1981, President Reagan awarded him the Medal of Honor.
The book "every American should read" (Vietnam) now available in trade paperback. Here is the powerful story of one man's fight against bigotry, paralysis and his war enemy that led to the Medal of Honor. From migrant farm-worker and middle-school dropout to recipient of his country's highest award for bravery, Roy Benavidez demonstrated the courage and fortitude of an American hero. The half-Yaqui Indian, half-Mexican orphan fought his way out of the bigotry of South Texas to serve with the Army's elite -- the Special Forces. In February, 1981, President Reagan awarded him the Medal of Honor.
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SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL
LTC Gavin Heater he is my all time favorite SF Soldier. I really respect him a lot.
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Everyone has different reading tastes so I have generally refrained from recommending books throughout my career, but there is one exception; The Three Meter Zone by JD Pendry is an excellent starting point for new leaders. It is an easy read and highlights a common sense approach.
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Best book I can think of is the mentor has the most useful knowledge in it. It is definitely a must have for all NCOs
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On Combat by LTC David Grossman, I have read it about 15 times and always have a copy in my house GREAT book.
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About Face: The Odyssey of an American Warrior by COL David Hackworth was always on my list. It's a must read.
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SSG Leo Bell, People suggest for military & civilian alike; http://www.amazon.com/The-Prior-Service-Entrepreneur-Competitive-Successful/dp/ [login to see]
Amazon.com: The Prior-Service Entrepreneur: The Fundamentals of Veteran Entrepreneurship...
Amazon.com: The Prior-Service Entrepreneur: The Fundamentals of Veteran Entrepreneurship (Experiential Leadership) (Volume 1) (9781494949174): Michael I Kaplan, Doug Macdonald: Books
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Professional Development - Who Moved My Cheese?
Personal Development - The Game.
Leadership Improvement - Leadership and Self Deception.
Personal Development - The Game.
Leadership Improvement - Leadership and Self Deception.
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Take a gander through "Art of War". Once done, read up on some key battles in history and take note that your job description, at its core, is what its been for several millennium. I've seen way to many "7 Habits of 4 Quadrant Whatever" SMs who think that having a shopping list makes them a good leader. These things POINT to stuff that can make a difference. What so called leaders tend to lack is a perspective of history, repeat past mistakes, and take credit for what some junior invented decades ago. You'll use a broader perspective as an asset to selecting the right tools at the right time vs. playing the 60% of the time it works game. Remember you need skill, technique, and perspective to effectively lead beyond next week.
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While there are some very good military related books out there, such as "We Were Soldiers Once, and Young," I prefer some of the business leadership books. Such as "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" written by Stephen R Covey, "The Radical Leap" written by Steve Farber, and "Leading from the Edge" written by Dennis N.T. Perkins. Covey has written several great leadership books.
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