Smart and Faithful Force

HE WAS A REMARKABLE MAN...HE WAS ORNERY AND MEANER THAN HELL -- James Holden-Rhodes has written a superb account of the life and contributions of a truly fascinating character in the history of our nation and the Marine Corps. It is the brilliantly told and researched story of Henry Clay Cochrane, a hero, reformer and innovator, a must read for those interested in understanding the historical evolution of the Marine Corps into the renowned fighting force it has become. Jim Holden-Rhodes rescues the history of the Marine Corps from the post-Civil War dark Ages or organizational stagnation. The career of Henry Clay Cochrane shows that a few brave reformers pushed the Marine Corps to higher standards of appearance, discipline, training and marksmanship. As it entered its imperial years, 1898-1933, the Marine Corps showed that its soaring self esteem was justified by it's fighting skills. Cochrane showed the way. -- Allan R. Millett, Author, Semper Fidelis: The History of the United States