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Book Reviews |
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| The Army Chaplaincy Winter 1998 | |
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Book Reviews |
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Breaking the Phalanx: A New Design for Landpower in the 21st Century Breaking the Phalanx is a remarkably readable and impressively insightful exploration of the American Armed Forces’ journey toward the 21st century. Macgregor provides an extraordinarily comprehensive study of the political, interservice, economic and interbranch influences which direct that journey. Macgregor’s appeal to history provides compelling support to his call for reorganization of America’s warfighting organizations, particularly the Army. He proposes that success on the battlefields of the 21st century depends upon a smarter, smaller, faster and more technologically advanced warfighting organization. Macgregor points out 20th century America’s pattern of unpreparedness for military operations. He warns that America’s reliance upon an industrial based strategy of building the force when we need it is a strategy whose time has passed. The speed of change and the necessity for immediate response to emerging international crises require a "force in being." He concludes that strategic and tactical success rest upon the availability of a military force capable of responding to and executing military operations on the anticipated battlefields of the 21st century. The composition of that force and the processes which construct and constrain that force are the subjects of his study. Ironically, the legacy of recent victory is suggested as an impediment to the development of a force redesigned to fight on 21st century battlefields. America’s senior leaders are comfortable with divisions. The irrefutable and most recent success of those divisions during the Gulf War bolster confidence in divisions as they are. Macgregor suggests that as we reminisce about the grand panorama of armored divisions charging across the desert empowered by unchallenged air and sea power, consideration of a new and untested force will meet resistance. Explicit warnings appear throughout the book regarding the danger of relying upon any "silver bullet" remedy to meet the challenges which American forces will face in the future. In view of the usual parochial self-indulgence associated with service specific projections for future warfighting requirements, Macgregor’s repeated recognition of the necessity for joint military operations is refreshing. He observes that any branches’ recitation of "We can do it all" bears scant resemblance to the chronicled history of those failed claims. Breaking the Phalanx provides abundant historical support for debunking the fallacies associated with the ongoing land-sea-air supremacy debates. He concludes that warfighting requires a joint effort but, unlike prevailing parochial postures, asserts that land power is vital to the achievement of America’s strategic objectives in both war and peace. Breaking the Phalanx recognizes initiative as central to combat operations. Napoleon’s successes are noted for dependence upon his subordinates’ exercise of initiative in accordance with his intent. Macgregor points out that awareness of what is happening on the battlefield, coupled with the flexibility to respond to changing conditions on that battlefield, provide a substantial advantage in military operations and enable initiative. Historical examples are offered to support the recurring evidence of this principle. Macgregor’s practical recognition that the development of America’s future forces will continue to be constrained by budgets is credible. Like the Eisenhower administration’s policies of massive retaliation, Macgregor notes that current national strategies principally rest upon economic, rather that military considerations. He recognizes that force structure will not develop exclusively to meet national military strategies but will encompass political, economic and private interests as well. He offers a solution which accommodates these constraints yet still provides a military capable of operating in the foreseen environments of the 21st century. Breaking the Phalanx observes that revolutions in military affairs tend to be more organizational than technological. Macgregor concludes that without an organization capable of exploiting technology, technology has only marginal effects on military operations. Though not explicitly stated, Macgregor suggests that the current US force design is a dinosaur, a Tyrannosaurus Rex, but nonetheless a dinosaur. Macgregor proposes a redesigned organizational structure coupled with changes in command and control relationships. He suggests that the expectations and information flow of this redesigned force also must be reconsidered to exploit the potential of the redesigned force. He proposes a flatter, smaller and increasingly joint warfighting model with the latitude to implement the commander’s intent with less reliance on centralized control. He writes, "If the tactical commander does not have the initiative, authority and doctrine along with the information to make decisions based on his understanding of the operational goals and situation, no amount of technology will result in winning decisions." Chaplain (MAJ) B. Duncan Baugh The Front of the Class: Learning to Lead Commercial description of the video: "The true test of a leader lies in the ability to decide what is to be done and then to get others to want to do it. In this video, you’ll see how a real leader is much like a good teacher: both have a unique ability to be fair yet firm, firm yet flexible, and most importantly, they both know that their success is the success of those they lead. Learn how to:
Review of the video: The content of this video is very helpful and easy to follow. While the setting is not a military environment, the concepts translate very easily. The scenario is one of a young man (early twenties) asking advice from a high school teacher about his leadership skills. It contains some humor and the dialogue is very realistic. This would work well with young adults like platoon leaders or new NCOs. The production quality and acting are excellent. The only downside is the cost. Chaplain (CPT) Barbara K. Sherer Led by Love: Worship Resources for Year B A rich, concise and practical liturgical worship preparation resource guide. This volume is filled with exceptionally crafted words combining artistic and inclusive images that inspire and lift one upward to the glory of God. Lavon Bayler provides fresh insights emerging from a woman’s perspective that will help worship planners design and craft prayers and liturgical responses that will empower and engage the worshipping community. This is Bayler’s second book in her new series of worship resources on the Revised Common Lectionary. Each worship Sunday and special days within the lectionary calendar contain: Call to Worship, Invocation, Call to Confession, Prayer of Confession, Assurance of Forgiveness, Collect, Offertory Invitation, Offertory Prayer, Commission and Blessing. It also contains new hymn texts crafted by the author utilizing themes addressed in the lectionary reading for that day. The hymn texts are designated by meter, which allow them to be sung to familiar tunes found in various denomination hymnals. A detailed topical index of hymns, worship themes, and key words enhance this resource’s usefulness by those preparing worship whether one follows the lectionary or not. Led by Love is an excellent worship resource for those desiring a deep, inspiring and articulate worship experience. It is the best lectionary aide I have found, and it is one of the few that is authored by a woman. The new hymn texts alone make this resource well worth one’s investment. I highly recommend it. Chaplain (MAJ) Michael L. Britton The Learning Congregation (A New Vision of Leadership) I found this book to be quite informative, well researched, and well documented. The author presents his argument for teaching individuals, committees, congregations and leaders to operate better in this new information age environment of ours in a very succinct and understanding style. He uses case studies, anecdotes, and examples to present his argument. The gist of the book is that leaders at all levels in a church or denomination need to learn to lead in a different fashion. In supporting this thesis, the author divided the book into two parts: "Ministry and the Speed of Change" and "Leading the Learning Congregation." Each of these parts has four chapters. Part one uses the illustration of white water to describe our society, culture, and lifestyle. We no longer live in a slow moving stream, but in a society that keeps us on the alert for rapids, waterfalls, and rocks. We need to develop new ways of learning, new skills in receiving all the information coming at us, and new methods to apply scripture to our developing skills. Part two discusses ways leaders in congregations and denominations need to help folks learn as individuals, groups, and congregations. In this part, some of the case studies deal with congregations applying old rituals and symbols to new ways of ministry and relating to changing societal conditions in neighborhoods. I recommend this book as a study guide for all leaders in local churches and in the Chaplaincy. It is a good weekend retreat book. CH (MAJ) Thomas C. Condry Prodigal Soldiers The Prodigal Son (Luke 15) came to himself, learning the facts of life by straying from his father’s world view and lifestyle. The "prodigals" of the military are, according to James Kitfield, those who weathered, survived and learned from the Vietnam years. This generation of leaders has been influential in forming an effective and distinctly American strategic doctrine which had transformed not merely the military, but a formerly demoralized American society. Kitfield presents biographical sketches of key military figures within the context of the past 20 years of military life. The principal prodigals are Barry McCaffrey, William DePuy, Chuck Horner, Bill Creech, Stanley Arthur, Tom Draude, "Shy" Meyer, Colin Powell, Norman Schwartzkopf, "Binney" Peay, Walt Boomer and others. One dramatic shift is the public attitude toward its warriors, an image which was tarnished by Vietnam, the "living room war," to the turbulent 70s and on to the all-volunteer, highly professional, technologically advanced and tactically prepared military of the 90s. Kitfield points out how America shifted from the intimate relationship with the soldiers who fought World War II to the casual, detached, and even hostile response toward the Vietnam vets. The national will shifted so dramatically during Desert Storm that many regarded it as the nearly miraculous conversion of a nation of prodigals. When Saddam Hussein invaded Kuwait, the concern of many was whether our leaders would allow Desert Storm to be a limited, undeclared and micro-managed war of attrition, with moral ambiguity, unclear objectives, and the individual replacement system The AirLand Battle doctrine and a Pentagon led by prodigals who had learned their lessons would not let that happen. "After two decades of painful self-appraisal they were being offered a chance at redemption." As GEN Schwartzkopf stated, "We’re not going into this with one arm tied behind our back." The role of Reserve components in the Gulf was regarded by some as a "political time bomb" and many argued the effect of a full military mobilization on the national will. Kitfield convincingly maintains that the call-up of the Reserves gave the American public a sense of ownership in the war, as well as demonstrating the feasibility of the one-military concept. While public support is not guaranteed with the participation of the Reserves, Kitfield argues that when communities send their own in a popular cause, they also send their support. The sole shortfall is in omitting a significant influence. Kitfield neglects to give due credit to COL Harry Summers, whose 1981 book, On Strategy (required reading for many years at CGSC), has profoundly changed the thinking of our military regarding how to go to war. Summers identified the political and strategic errors of Vietnam, which stirred a conviction to wage the next war differently. Realistic training, tighter discipline, improved morale and a clarity of purpose characterized the professional military of the 80s, which paved the way for Desert Storm. The dramatic narrative of the Gulf War is highlighted by the story of CPT Eddie Ray whose B Company faced and defeated an Iraqi armored brigade in the largest armored battle in USMC history. Ray’s statement, "Nobody gets through us," may well be the rallying cry of future generations of Marines. Kitfield reminds us in the conclusion of his battle account that "for those who have fought for it, freedom had a flavor the protected will never know." CH (LTC) Robert G. Leroe Recreating Marriage with the Same Old Spouse: A Guide for Couples Recreating Marriage shares what the author and her spouse learned about relationships through a class by the same title at their church. The book grew out of their weekly plans for that class. Recreating Marriage may be used by a couple seeking to enrich their relationship. It could be used as a course curriculum, or by individual couples seeking to "enhance and develop their skills for marriage." The title of the book reminds the reader that "every marriage is in a state of continuous change, as are the persons who create the marriage." Relationships are strengthened as couples learn communication skills and explore mutual beliefs and values. Each chapter includes a variety of scenarios which illustrate the principle discussed. The author provides discussion questions and exercises to reinforce the reading. The chapters on understanding preferences and appreciating differences are well written explanations of the value of the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator. The book would be recommended for these chapters alone. Recreating Marriage would be a helpful tool for military chaplains, especially as the opportunity for marital counseling presents itself. Chaplain (MAJ) Norm Brekke Sheltered by God’s Love: 52 Bible Lessons for Senior Adults This book is an excellent Bible study book as noted for senior adults. It is also noteworthy that Chapter 1 is entitled, "The God of Love and God’s Relation to Us." This is an important and comforting statement for folks of advanced age. To aid in the learning process, the questions for reflection or discussion are helpful for group participation. I would recommend the book highly for some of the choice passages and well-written material for any adult age group, but especially the senior set. Simon P. Hartog, Elder Sexual Abuse and Eating Disorders The editors have compiled an outstanding book consisting of 26 contributors to the complex relationship between sexual abuse and eating disorders. The contributors make use of numerous studies, graphic analyses, and tables in order to thoroughly examine this topic. The subject matter experts answer such questions as the following: Why and how does early physical and sexual abuse influence eating disorders? How does "false memory" fit into the dynamic framework of sexual abuse and eating disorders? The contributors cover such topics as the following: a feminist psychodynamic approach to the treatment of childhood sexual abuse in Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa; the political and social realties in the prevention of sexual abuse and eating disorders. This book is a must-read for clinicians and therapists who do extensive individual counseling for female patients. This book can be summarized by the clear and concise statement, "Because sexual abuse is such an extreme example of boundary violation, as well as a component of the disruption of attachment and bonding, it is likely that some clients will exhibit symptoms of self-injury to the body; one form of such injury is eating disorder." Chaplain (MAJ) Richard D. King Winter Grief, Summer Grace: Returning to Life after a Loved One Dies This book, composed of scripture, well written text, and photos, is effective for three different audiences: clergy preparing for funerals and memorials; clergy dealing with personal losses; and as a source book for others. The 63 pages are chock full of resources, reflective activities, and beautiful photographs. This book should in the distribution library of almost every chaplain to give to others. I found it helpful for myself as I continue through the seasons of grief. Chaplain (MAJ)Thomas C. Condry An Untimely Loss The author, through a series of letters addressed to God, copes with a time of tremendous grief over the loss of her teen-age son. The mere writing of her thoughts, feelings and dreams is therapeutic as she reaches for the answers to so many questions. She struggles to come to terms with her loss and through these notes expresses her grief and suffering. How difficult to share so private a time, yet Zelenka does it openly and without shame. The pain of a loss, especially one of a child, never really ceases. But the author begins to cope by finding a place where she can deal with her pain and reserves that place to remember her loss and also her discovery of all that is good in life. An Untimely Loss, a short but powerful book, can help you gain
understanding and insight as one mother has. Nella Hobson Mother Teresa: Love Stays A wonderful book that starts with a quote from Mother Teresa’s brother, Lazer Bojazhiu, as he reflected back on her as a child: "Always sure of herself, sharp, never at a loss for words, and afraid of nobody." The author has captured small bits of this wonderful nun through the 140 pages of this book. He tells a touching story of a nun who knew what God wanted of her and went about doing this job in her own way. To start the Missionaries of Charity was no small feat. The book describes the ways Mother Teresa went out every day looking for the dying, hungry and castaways to provide food and shelter. In 1964, Pope Paul VI visited Mother Theresa in Bombay — in a white Lincoln Continental — that had been given to him by American Catholics. He donated it to Mother Teresa. At the first opportunity she raffled it off. She raised $100,000 for the poor with that car. Proving her great love for children, Mother Teresa said, "Don’t kill it, give it to me." She would try to find adoptive parents for these precious little ones. Reading this book would be time well spent learning about a woman’s great love and respect for the poor people of the world. Johanne Stavola How to Be a Perfect Stranger: A Guide to Etiquette in Other People’s Religious Ceremonies Arthur Magida, editor 417 pages, $24.95 How to Be a Perfect Stranger is well organized into a practical guide on how to conduct oneself in a multifaith community. Volume 1 gives a detailed description of 20 different denominations and distinct faith groups. The range of coverage on distinct religions spreads from monotheistic religions such as Islam and Judaism to polytheistic religions such as Hinduism. The book answers many of the practical questions soldiers ask about different religions and denominations with regard to conduct and mannerisms. After reading this book, one will receive practical tips on how to participate fully in a given service and avoid violating anyone’s religious principles. Additionally, readers will, in fact, enrich their own spiritual understanding as they scan the rich and colorful religious landscape of the various religions. The faith groups include the following: Assemblies of God, Baptist, Buddhist, Christian Sciences (Church of Christ, Scientist), Churches of Christ, Disciples of Christ, Episcopalian, Greek Orthodox, Hindu, Islam. Jehovah’s Witnesses, Jewish, Lutheran, Methodist, Mormon (Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints), Presbyterian, Quaker (Religious Society of Friends), Roman Catholic, Seventh-Day Adventist and United Church of Christ. Chaplains and chaplain assistants will find this resource an invaluable tool to have in the ministry team "tool kit." There is a growing number of requests for information on religious etiquette, cultural and social interaction when soldiers deploy to different regions of the world. This resource will help answer many of the questions asked about some of the do’s and taboos of various religions and distinct faith groups. This book covers practical tips and suggestions as to what is appropriate and acceptable in different worship settings. The readers will have a clear understanding of what is expected at the beginning and ending stages of the human life cycle. This includes initiation/baptism at birth to burial and funeral mourning at death. One of the most useful aspects of this book is the religious holiday calendar and its detailed description of each holiday. The language is concise with easy reading for thelayperson who may not have a formal religious background. Academic scholarship is not forfeited for the sake of user-friendly description of religious groups. Exclusive questionnaires and consultation with subject matter experts formed a thorough database for the religious guide. This book answers the questions about what is the appropriate dress, gift and gestures for weddings, funerals and other religious services of a friend relative or coworker. This is undoubtedly an indispensable and easy-to-use handbook that will help transform the "strange" into the familiar. Chaplain (MAJ) Rodney A. Lindsay It’s Better to Believe Kenneth H. Cooper, M.D., M.P.H., the author of several best-selling books, is the founder of the Cooper Institute for Aerobics Research, in Dallas, Texas. Most, if not all, members of our fitness-conscious military know about aerobic exercise. Fewer may know about its developer, Dr. Kenneth Cooper, and the fact that he served as both an Army and Air Force medical officer. Fewer still may know of Dr. Cooper’s deep religious faith and his active work as a Baptist layperson. In his book, It’s Better to Believe, Dr. Cooper shows a direct link between faith and fitness—both physical fitness and spiritual fitness. Speaking to the whole person — body, mind, and spirit — he shows how fitness is a matter of overall lifestyle, not just a matter of periodic exercise. As a Biblical basis for his thoughts, he quotes the Apostle Paul: "Bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things." Dr. Cooper’s book provides exercise plans, dietary plans, and practical advice. He also includes helpful quotes from such diverse sources as Socrates, Benjamin Franklin, Winston Churchill, John Wesley, C. S. Lewis, and Francesco Petrarca. I found Dr. Cooper’s test on determining one’s "Real Age" to be most enlightening. Chaplain (MAJ) Michael C. Metcalf Abortion: A Reader Despite the fiery rhetoric generally seen in the media, the issue of abortion is far from straightforward. As this book demonstrates, the monolithic stances that both sides of the debate seem to possess crumble in the face of serious and faithful reflection, scholarship and study. Lloyd Steffen has collected materials addressing the abortion debate from a wide range of sources. He does not limit himself to a few heated discussions within the secular and Christian worlds. Instead, he draws upon other faith groups and dissenting opinions within the major denominations of Christianity a well as within the popular culture. In short, Steffen amasses a very balanced collection of 48 essays that presents the abortion issue from multiple perspectives. The present course of the debate over the ethics surrounding abortion seems to provoke ever-increasing tension between those on the "pro-life" side and those who are "pro-choice." The end result is that many view the issue as an unresolvable conflict between extremist groups. Yet, after reading this book, one leaves with the opinion that this is far from the case. As Steffen presents, there is a wide variety of views spanning the extremes. What makes this work particularly helpful is that the essays, both singularly and collectively, provide an in-depth critique of the many stances concerning the issue. Consequently, one can then grapple with the many ethical nuances involved in forming a faithful view concerning the issue of abortion. Whether you a full-time chaplain or clergy member, I highly recommend this book for your library. It has allowed me to reform some of my prejudices concerning abortion issues and those who do not share my views. I am sure that this erosion of stereotypes can only be helpful in this debate. Steffen’s book is fair, thorough, stimulating and challenging. And this is why it belongs on your shelf. CPT Kevin E. Wainwright Singles Ask: Answers to Questions About Relationships and Sexuality C.S. Lewis said, "Friendship is born when one says to another, ‘You too? I thought I was the only one!’" That concept of shared realities is what Singles Ask is all about. Harold Ivan Smith tackles the toughest questions facing single adults today and gives thoughtful answers. He does a skillful job of avoiding judgment by offering perspective and encouraging personal decisions. Topics range widely from the standard tips on how to develop your own self-esteem and dating tips to the current discussions of Internet "romances" and "cybersex." Anything seems to be a legitimate ground for questions, and each topic is handled without pandering or being provocative. Although the liner notes refer to Mr. Smith as a "nationally known speaker and author," I had never heard of him. I was pleased to find frequent references to qualified and respected authors in the relationship field. My only disappointment was that there is very little reference to the Bible, or to specific passages when it is referenced. This is a matter of taste, but may be well advised in breaking down barriers where spouting scripture verses and doctrine might build walls. Singles Ask is a good reference for those young Christians seeking a reassuring voice. It is also a good reference for those asking about areas of which we are personally unaware. The answers are out there, if we are willing to ask — not just others, but ourselves as well. Like C.S. Lewis, we will find friendship with others and discover answers about ourselves in the process. Paul Villano The Future Of Prophetic Christianity These eighteen essays honor the distinguished theologian and social activist Robert McAfee Brown. They are of mixed quality. Some of the essays are quite useful. John Carmody’s essay "A Prophetic Challenge to Men" would get a men’s groups stirring over their coffee. Elie Wiesel’s essay "Lot’s Wife" will challenge the preacher. Karen Lebacqz’s essay on "Bridging the Gap" focuses on suffering as the bridge between oppressors and the oppressed. This essay is worth getting the book. Chaplain (LTC) William O. Nisbet, Jr.
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