Top Book Recommendations by James Mattis: Best Books for Success

James Norman Mattis, commonly known as “Mad Dog” Mattis, is a retired United States Marine Corps general who served as the 26th United States Secretary of Defense from January 2017 to December 2018. He previously served as the 11th Commander of United States Central Command from August 2010 to March 2013. Prior to that, he commanded the United States Joint Forces Command from November 2007 to August 2010.

He served as the United States Marine Corps Forces Central Command Commander from July 2002 to November 2004. He was also the first Marine officer to serve as the Supreme Allied Commander Transformation of NATO Allied Command Transformation from November 2007 to September 2009.

Mattis served in the Marine Corps for 44 years and earned a reputation as one of the most formidable combat leaders of his time. He was well known for his hard-charging leadership style and blunt speaking, leading to his nickname “Mad Dog Mattis.”

He was an infantry officer who served in the Persian Gulf War, the War in Afghanistan, and the Iraq War, where he led troops in some of the most intense fightings in modern combat. In recognition of his service, he was awarded numerous decorations, including the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, the Navy Distinguished Service Medal, and the Legion of Merit.

Mattis was widely respected in the military for his leadership. He is credited with developing the Marine Corps’ Counterinsurgency Manual and leading the development of the US military’s new Counterinsurgency Field Manual. He also served on a number of military boards and committees and was a sought-after speaker at military events.

After leaving the military, Mattis was tapped to serve as Secretary of Defense by President Donald Trump. He was confirmed with a 98-1 vote in the Senate and served until his resignation in late 2018. Mattis was widely praised for his work in the Trump administration and is credited with helping to maintain a strong defense posture and forging a closer relationship with NATO allies.

Since retiring from the military and the Trump administration, Mattis has become a highly sought-after speaker and consultant. He is a highly decorated military veteran who has been widely credited with developing the strategy and tactics that helped the US military turn the tide in Iraq. He is known for his leadership, strategic thinking, and blunt speaking.