"This insightful book fills a surprising gap in literature about national security. Drawing on long experience inside the Washington Beltway and sharp analytical skills, Stevenson brings into focus the varied operating styles, successes, and failures of twenty secretaries of defense--a job often second in importance only to the president’s. No other book surveys this complex of strategic, managerial, political, and personal issues as thoroughly, sensibly, and readably as this one."—Prof. Richard K. Betts, director, Saltzman Institute of War and Peace Studies, Columbia University
"It's a very sharp examination of their management styles and a great picture into their lives, and most importantly, this book offers those persons serious about working in the high ranks of OSD several examples of management that they can either emulate or avoid, depending on the situations. I'm very much looking forward to starting Stevenson's next book."
"A clear, concise, and readable history of the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD)…nicely fills a gap in the literature…perfectly suited primer for officers and civilian professionals who need or desire to understand the OSD, including those pursuing professional military education or a degree in security studies…This first-rate book should find its way onto syllabi in professional military education and security studies courses, the shelves of officers and Department of Defense civilians aspiring to develop themselves professionally, and the desks of congressional staff members who oversee this powerful institution."
"I learned a tremendous amount from SECDEF and enjoyed the process of learning. Charles Stevenson has combined encyclopedic knowledge of Pentagon history, a graceful and entertaining writing style, and provocative insights to produce an original and very valuable book. It is particularly useful in connecting debates about Secretary Rumsfeld’s leadership during the current Iraq war with the decades-long evolution of the SECDEF’s role."
"Charles Stevenson has written a fascinating and insightful work that masterfully captures the character and performance of some of America’s secretaries of defense. It is a rare look and brilliantly written analysis of the men who have held this powerful position."
"This insightful book fills a surprising gap in literature about national security. Drawing on long experience inside the Washington Beltway and sharp analytical skills, Stevenson brings into focus the varied operating styles, successes, and failures of twenty secretaries of defense--a job often second in importance only to the president’s. No other book surveys this complex of strategic, managerial, political, and personal issues as thoroughly, sensibly, and readably as this one."
"This engaging book gives the office and the men who have held it the attention they deserve. While not a complete history, it is an excellent overview . . . the best place to start in order to understand an important and often-neglected subject. Highly recommended."
"SECDEF is a fascinating book which provides the reader with an excellent introduction to the working of the Defense Department and insights into the personalities of the men who shaped U.S. defense policy for the past fifty years."
"Students of this period of American political, diplomatic, or military history can profit from this book and instructors of national security and defense policy courses will find it most useful."
"Stevenson's book is an excellent primer for those with orders to [Office of the Secretary of Defense]. . . .Delving into Stevenson's book on this rarely addressed subject will give the reader a deeper understanding of this important office."
"Students of this period of American political, diplomatic, or military history can profit from this book and instructors of national security and defense policy courses will find it most useful."
