Reading Lists

The Commandant’s Reading List: Strategy (Part 3)

A deeper look at strategic judgment, command, adaptation, and the ideas behind military decision-making

Jun 28 • David Gran

Total Sailor, Part 4: Character - CNO Reading List

Marcus Aurelius, James Kerr, and Viktor Frankl on discipline, purpose, humility, and self-command in military life

Jun 12 • The Military Reading Room

The Commandant’s Reading List: Strategy (Part 2)

Five books on combat, command, culture, and long-term strategic thinking

May 26 • David Gran

Forged to Fight: CNO Reading List Part 3

Tactical realism, combat endurance, and the grammar of naval warfare in an age of missiles, AI, and uncertainty

Apr 13 • David Gran

Commandant of the Marine Corps 2026 Professional Reading List: Strategy and Great Power Competition

Part 1 of our series examines the Strategy section of the Commandant’s Professional Reading Program and why these books matter for today’s Marines

Mar 20 • David Gran

The Strategic Logic of the Fleet: CNO Reading List Part 2

Moving from the Foundry to the Fleet: A guide to understanding deterrence, geography, and the strategic signal of American sea power in the 21st century

Feb 20 • David Gran

CNO Reading List Series: PART 1 – FOUNDRY

War is won in the industrial base before it is fought at sea

Feb 13 • David Gran

The Leader’s Bookshelf: 50 Essential Reads Recommended by 4-Star Generals and Admirals

Admiral Stavridis curates a military reading list that sharpens leadership, decision-making, and strategic thinking—for any serious reader

Dec 19, 2025 • David Gran

Reading to Lead: USMC Leadership List – Part 2

Explore six more leadership books from the 2025 Commandant’s Reading List that challenge Marines and leaders everywhere to think, act, and grow

Sep 16, 2025 • David Gran

For Those Who Don’t Remember 9/11

As memory fades and generations turn, why telling the story of 9/11—and the attacks that led up to it—matters more than ever.

Sep 11, 2025 • Phil Gentile and David Gran

Leading Marines Starts with Reading: Leadership - Part 1

Explore six powerful leadership books from the 2025 Commandant’s Reading List that help Marines and leaders build trust, influence, and accountability

Sep 9, 2025 • David Gran

Year One of The Military Reading Room: Gratitude, Lessons, and What’s Next

A year of History, Strategy, and Shared Insights—with Gratitude and Looking Ahead

Aug 26, 2025 • David Gran and Phil Gentile

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