History and Military History (Part 2)

As we continue the U.S. Army Chief of Staff’s Professional Reading List

Continuing Our Look at the Army Reading List

The U.S. Army Chief of Staff’s Professional Reading List is more than a collection of books—it’s a roadmap for soldiers, Army civilians, and Military Reading Room subscribers (yes, you) who want to deepen their understanding of leadership, strategy, and the profession of arms. We’re using a version of the reading list from approximately ten years ago, as there is currently no updated comprehensive list published by the Army Chief of Staff. That said, the current Army Chief of Staff, General Randy A. George, has recommended individual articles, and we include one of those selections in each release of our Army Reading List series.

In Part 2 of the History and Military History section, we continue exploring key works that offer timeless lessons in the evolution of warfare, leadership in combat, and the shaping of military doctrine. This section is one of six that make up the full reading list:

• Strategic Environment

• Regional Studies

• History and Military History

• Leadership

• Army Profession

• Fiction

Each of these books offers valuable insights into military thought and the enduring role of landpower in warfare. As the modern battlefield grows more complex, continued study and critical thinking remain essential for military professionals and those who seek to understand the art and science of armed conflict.

Let’s continue where we left off—with another recommended article from the CSA, followed by five more essential selections from the History and Military History category.

---

Chief of Staff of the Army Recommended Articles

Bringing Rehearsals into the Modern Age: A Digital Transformation for Divisions – CSA Article of March 2025

By Maj. Gen. Christopher Norrie, Lt. Col. William Deen, and Maj. Christian Turley, U.S. Army

This article explains how the U.S. Army’s 3rd Infantry Division used a training method inspired by legendary football coach Nick Saban’s step-by-step approach to building winning habits. Just like Saban slowly increases intensity in football practice—from helmets to full pads—the division practiced its war plans in stages, using digital tools to rehearse missions from basic walk-throughs to full-speed combat simulations. These digital rehearsals helped soldiers at all levels understand their roles, work together better, and prepare for real challenges in battle. Special attention was also given to improving how intelligence teams practice gathering and sharing information so they can support decision-making during complex missions. The goal of all this training is to build confidence, sharpen skills, and make sure everyone is ready before going into real combat—because, in war, mistakes cost lives, not points.