The Generals: American Military Command from World War II to Today

Abstract

Tom Ricks has earned over the past two decades a justified reputation as a thorough and knowledgeable military correspondent. His latest work ad- dresses the decline in the competence of generals in the U.S. Army, which he regards as a major and timely issue. As is to be expected from such a thought- ful journalist, Ricks has produced an important book that should spark debate and discussion not only among the Army's leaders but also among those of the other services. The Generals is well written and at times insightful. Indeed, it makes a plausible case that there is something flawed in the choice and education of Army leaders.