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The Fifth Star: High Command in an Era of Global War
Contributor(s): Hall, George M. (Author)
ISBN: 0275948021     ISBN-13: 9780275948023
Publisher: Praeger
OUR PRICE:   $94.05  
Product Type: Hardcover - Other Formats
Published: March 1994
Qty:
Additional Information
BISAC Categories:
- History | Military - United States
Dewey: B
LCCN: 93032765
Lexile Measure: 1240
Physical Information: 0.63" H x 6.14" W x 9.21" (1.15 lbs) 248 pages
 
Descriptions, Reviews, Etc.
Publisher Description:

In modern times, ten Americans rose to five-star rank: Pershing (who chose to wear only four stars), Leahy, Marshall, King, Arnold, MacArthur, Nimitz, Halsey, Eisenhower, and Bradley. In concert with the Roosevelts, Wilson, Truman, and Sir Winston Churchill, they were at the helm as the world transformed from the machinations of regional despots to an era of global war. With few exceptions, these men exercised their responsibilities with remarkable integrity and ability. The first part of this book reviews the biography and military highlights of each five-star; the second analyzes and compares the ten to identify common features of the elements of command and leadership.

While studying the careers of these distinguished men, Hall also provides an insight into the analysis of war. He explains that war operates on five levels of perspective: heroism, tactics, operations, theaters, and national purpose. When these levels conflict, even the best leaders are fortunate to escape with their reputations intact. This volume details how these commanders achieved success by understanding and properly maintaining these different perspectives almost unfailingly. Consequently, they reached the pinnacle of power in the military profession.