Written in an informative, readable style, "Certain Victory" allows its readers to draw their own conclusions from its many strong messages. First and foremost, the book's charter was to tell the Army's story. The authors have done that through the eyes of those who fought the war from private to the general. In their search for the "ground truth" General Scales' team uncovered details about the conduct of the war that were closely examined for the first time. Some will be debated for years to come. The issue of who should have been the land component commander, the targeting controversy between the Army and the Air Force, and the differences in perspective between General Schwarzkopf and his subordinate commanders during the war are brought to light in these pages. However, like the continuing question of whether the ground war was ended too soon, these and other controversial issues cannot be resolve din one contemporary work. The enduring value of "Certain Victory" lies in its unique style. Rather than the dry, jargon-laden prose of an official report, readers can expect a quick read. The book is directed at a wide audience. It is a balanced account of the units and soldiers that fought the war. Considering its official nature and purpose, the book has far exceeded even General Sullivan's original intent.

Forging a new army -- Desert Shield -- Plotting the campaign -- Shaping the battlefield -- The great wheel -- Restoring calm after the storm -- Continuity and change -- Epilogue -- Chronology of events.