Reading Lists by Service
U.S. Navy
Chief of Naval Operations Professional Reading Program
“Reading is a force multiplier. It equips us with the knowledge, perspective, and critical thinking necessary to lead, to innovate, and to prevail in the unforgiving crucible of combat. This list is not political, not trendy, and not designed to check a box. It is chosen deliberately to sharpen everyone in the Navy, from the halls of the Pentagon to the forward deployed deck plates”
– Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Daryl Caudle
U.S. Marines
Commandant’s Professional Reading List
The Marine Corps has a long history of encouraging Marines to educate themselves on not just the history of the Corps but about the larger world around them. In 1989, the reading list was codified, and since then, each Commandant has issued their Commandant’s Professional Reading List to improve Marines’ understanding of the military profession, the nature of warfare, and develop decision-making and critical-thinking skills.
U.S. Air Force
Secretary of the Air Force Reading List
“As we enter a new era of great power competition, it is crucial that we improve our understanding of our pacing challenge – the People’s Republic of China (PRC). To that end, I am publishing a reading list to provide suggested works intended to enhance our knowledge of China’s history, culture, society, strategy, and military modernization program – and their implications for the Air Force and Space Force.”
– Frank Kendall, 26th Secretary of the Air Force
U.S. Space Force
U.S. Space Command Commander’s Reading List
“The intent of this reading list is to foster a culture of continual learning and professional mastery in the core skills we need at USSPACECOM. By increasing our knowledge base and gaining perspective, we aim to enhance our expertise, strengthen our capabilities, and ensure we are well prepared to collectively meet the challenges ahead.”
– General Stephen Whiting
U.S. Army
Chief of Staff of the Army Recommended Articles
This regularly updated list “curates timely, operationally focused writing from across the force—on mission command, land operations in the Indo-Pacific, leadership, and more—giving leaders at every echelon a ready-made reading program to sharpen their warfighting mindset.”
– Staff of the Small Wars Journal
Other U.S. Military Lists
INDOPACOM Commander’s Reading List
The Commander INDOPACOM Reading List offers a selection of books that provide historical context and insight to the Commander’s five strategic focus areas: Allies and Partners, China, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea), India, and Transnational Threats. An excellent history of Hawaii is also included. This professional reading list will enhance readers’ understanding of and appreciation for key countries and issues in the INDOPACOM area of responsibility.
