Leading Marines Book Review

Words: 924
Pages: 4

MCWP 6-10 is the 2014 update to the 1995 MCWP 6-11 handbook titled Leading Marines. I remember the 1995 version well. It graced every unit publications library and every PME school library. When I went through Corporals course in 1997 we read from that version. Although, I enjoy history and tradition, it was peace time and even then the stories from Korea, Vietnam, and WWII seemed so distant in the past. There was only one story about Desert Shield which was relatively recent at that time, so it felt a bit out of touch. Nonetheless, I understood General Monday’s sprit behind the premise of the well written and motivational book.
With that said, I was happy to see that it was updated and integrated into the Lance Corporal Seminar, although
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Lejeune about the relationship between Junior and Senior Marines. I have often been told that I mother my Marines too much, but according to page 2-3 General Lejeune is quoted as “just like a parent, Marine Leaders are responsible the physical, mental, and moral welfare of those in their charge”. I feel like I fulfill that roll very well. Additionally, the section on leading by example is inspirational in the fact that I have lived by the mantra that I would never ask my Marines to do anything I would not do or have not done myself. I often teach my Marines by working side by side with them showing them what I expect and what right looks like. William Hawkins is used as the leader to emulate because he led the charge near single handedly to clear a battlefield on Tarawa. It is said that after he was killed on the battle field that, “Although First Lieutenant Hawkins was gone, his scout-sniper platoon continued their deadly work clearing out enemy bunkers. He inspired his Marines to carry on without him. They were well-trained, well-led, and believed in each other and their cause” (2-19).
I can only hope that my Marines think they are well trained and well led after I am gone.
All things considered, this updated version will guide young Marines into good leaders for at least the next 16 years, until it is once again time to update our history and stories of leadership. This handbook is recommended for all ranks. It can reinvigorate the experienced leaders and is a great starting point for new