This week on Scuttlebutt Vic and William sit down with best selling author Nick Reynolds, writer of the sterling “Need to Know” which covers the rise of American Intelligence during World War II. From his experience in 1975 when he was told “You don’t want to be in Intel,” through his USMC and CIA career, Nick is an expert on 20th century Intelligence. Join us as we explore why America wasn’t truly prepared for WWII, and how allied and axis armed forces evolved intelligence throughout the war. We also tap into his experience to get a gauge on the current state of intelligence and finding the “Intelligence Goldilocks Zone.”

Nicholas Reynolds has worked in the fields of modern military history and intelligence off and on for forty years, with some unusual detours. Freshly minted PhD from Oxford University in hand, he joined the United States Marine Corps in the 1970s, serving as an infantry officer and then as a historian. As a colonel in the reserves, he eventually became officer in charge of field history, deploying historians around the world to capture history as it was being made. When not on duty with the USMC, he served as a CIA officer at home and abroad, immersing himself in the very human business of espionage. Most recently, he was the historian for the CIA Museum, responsible for developing its strategic plan and helping to turn remarkable artifacts into compelling stories. 

The views and opinions expressed on Scuttlebutt are those of the individuals and do not reflect the official position of the Marine Corps Association.

Produced by Nick Wilson, Vic Ruble, William Treuting, and Nancy Lichtman.

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