19 Stars: A Study in Military Character and Leadership

I served with Cotton Puryear, the Author's Son, in Desert Storm in 1990-1991. Cotton was the XO of G Troop 2/3 ACR (and a very good one - obviously learned some lessons from Dad). I was a green 2LT just out of the basic course. Cotton loaned me his copy of the book, it was one of the first books on Military leadership I read outside of a classroom and it was exceptional. It was particulalry appropriate for me as a young officer soon to face combat to learn from the greats. The book is very readable and I think should be at the top of any aspiring officer or business executives list who want to learn lessons in leadership from some of our greatest military leaders. Cotton - if you read this send me an e-mail! Brave Rifles!

It is written in such a way that you don't have to be a military historian to enjoy reading about Generals Eisenhower, MacArthur, Marshall, and Patton. It talks about these men as people and explains who they are not just what they did. I have recommended this book to many people.

I read this book slowly, marking it up and making notations throughout, as principles expounded came to light. These men had to make high pressure decisions, the result of which were stupendous! They were in positions that required sterling character. The ramifications of their conclusions were paramount. The fate of the free world hung on the balance the situation was desperate. In this study of 19 stars of military character I truly found gold nuggets of wisdom. Principles that are invaluable tools which will assist you to set the sail in your life, and then to get to where you want to go.

Nineteen Stars is a laconic, discerning, and professional analysis of the factors which made Eisenhower, MacArthur, Marshal, and Patton the first-rate military leaders they were. The author's extensive interviews and correspondence have revealed many anecdotes and experiences which are published here for the first time. It is a most interesting, comprehensive and accurate delineation of four of our country's greatest military leaders and the qualities of military leadership. This classic study presents the testimony of hundreds of old friends, classmates, subordinates, and superiors of the four great World War II leaders