Preview
  • Before the First Shots Are Fired

  • How America Can Win or Lose Off the Battlefield
  • By: Tony Koltz, Tony Zinni
  • Narrated by: Johnny Heller
  • Length: 8 hrs and 25 mins
  • 4.4 out of 5 stars (46 ratings)

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Before the First Shots Are Fired

By: Tony Koltz, Tony Zinni
Narrated by: Johnny Heller
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Publisher's summary

For the better part of the last half century, the United States has been the world's police, claiming to defend ideologies, allies, and our national security through brute force. But is military action always the most appropriate response? Drawing on his vast experience, retired four-star general Tony Zinni argues that we have a lot of work to do to make the process of going to war-or not-more clear-eyed and ultimately successful. He examines the relationship between the executive and the military; the challenges of working with the UN, coalition forces, and NATO; and the difficult choices that need to be made to create tomorrow's military. Among his provocative points:Virtually every recent American military operation follows a disconnected series of actions that lead to outcomes we never foresaw or intended.We need to assign accountability for the political decisions that can make or break a mission.Words and ideas are as important to victory in today's conflicts as bullets.

From the Oval Office to the battlefield, Before the First Shots Are Fired is a hard-hitting analysis of the history of America's use of military action and a spirited call for change.

©2014 Tony Zinni and Tony Koltz (P)2014 Tantor
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Critic reviews

"One of the most respected and outspoken military leaders of the past two decades." ( 60 Minutes)

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For the strategic leader

This book was very informative, though provoking and relevant to the current political environment (year 2020).

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Must Read For Company and Field Grade

Although written under a different administration, this book has stood the time and remains a “must read” for Captains and Majors as they transition from tactics to operation. With enthusiasm, I would recommend this book to all who wish to make a career out of serving.

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A must read for leaders

This is a must read for leaders and those interested in foreign policy. Tony Zinni is one of the greatest minds of our time.

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