This evaluation of the senior leadership in the U.S. army is based, in part, on the personal experience and wisdom of former Chief of Staff General Edward C. Meyer. It is also supplemented by scores of interviews that the authors conducted with the individuals (and the leaders) who shaped the military since World War II. The focus is not on the conflicts themselves, but rather on the factors that influenced the leaders. Many of the issues that had an impact on the leadership of the military over the period discussed are quantifiable, but many are not. Those that are not are evaluated from Meyer's experience and from the experience of the other authorities interviewed.

Marshall, Arnold and their generals -- Years of change and challenge -- A long cold war -- Disillusionment in Vietnam -- Era of the hollow Army -- The renaissance -- Who will lead-tomorrow? -- Appendix 1: Four-star generals of World War II -- Appendix 2: Four-star generals of today.