In this episode Alex reviews the book Platoon Leader by James McDonough and provides commentary on lessons learned, leadership development, and the importance of reading.
Platoon Leader is the first-hand account of then 2LT James McDonough's experiences as a PL in the Vietnam War while serving with the 173rd Airborne Brigade. Taking command of a platoon immediately upon landing, young McDonough sets to lead his men, set expectations, and engage and destroy the enemy while defending a key Vietnamese village.
Themes throughout the novel include leadership, the burden of command, decision making, defensive tactics, offensive tactics, Vietnam, and the mental fortitude required to lead in combat. I personally recommend this book to anyone interested in improving their small unit leadership abilities and tactics from 2LTs to NCOs.