This is a work that succeeds at examining the broad impacts, both good and bad, of a career public servant with an emphasis more on the latter than the former. The author sheds light and places blame on the central figure, although it can be assumed that blame does not solely rest with Powell alone and also resides with others outside the scope of this work. Matthews provides a warning to all that even those most admired are not infallible. This work should be read by all national security professionals, uniformed service members, or any other governmental agency including the department of state and the intelligence community.
Reflections on Being a Major
The transition from company grade to field grade officer is unique, and probably one of the hardest transitions in the career of a military officer. As a company grade officer, most development is internally focused. Young officers spend much of their time learning officership through the study of manuals, orders, and directives, all the while in search of their own leadership style. The switch to field grade requires officers to make a 180-degree turn from self-development to subordinate development. The internal focus shifts to external through mentorship and teaching.