My Share of the Task: A Memoir

'More by luck than design, I'd been a part of some events, organizations, and efforts that will loom large in history, and more that will not. I saw selfless commitment, petty politics, unspeakable cruelty, and quiet courage in places and quantities that I'd never imagined. But what I will remember most are the leaders.' General Stanley McChrystal is widely admired for his hunger to know the truth, his courage to find it, and his humility to listen to those around him. Even as the commanding officer of all U.S. and coalition forces in Afghanistan, he stationed himself forward and frequently went on patrols with his troops to experience their challenges firsthand. In this illuminating memoir, McChrystal frankly explores the major episodes and controversies of his career. He describes the many outstanding leaders he served with and the handful of bad leaders he learned not to emulate. And he paints a vivid portrait of how the military establishment turned itself, in one generation, into the adaptive, resilient force that would soon be tested in Iraq, Afghanistan, and the wider War on Terror. 'A brilliant book about leadership wrapped inside a fascinating personal narrative.' Walter Isaacson, author of Steve Jobs'Engaging and humble throughout, McChrystal raises the bar for his peers.' Publishers Weekly(starred review)'An important, riveting, and instructive account of the triumphs and trials of America's two longest wars.' Tom Brokaw, author of The Greatest Generation'Stanley McChrystal has written the finest military memoir of his generation. Lucid, thoughtful, and steeped in military and strategic history, My Share of the Taskis not just the story of one man's service; it is the story of the development of a new way of war.' Walter Russell Mead, author of Special Providenceand God and Gold