The selection of Gen. James N. Mattis as defense secretary signals a more assertive American posture in the Middle East. Read More

And listen to the 2015 interview Uncommon Knowledge: Retired U.S. Marine Corps Gen. James Mattis … it provides the General’s insights on the nature and history of war and candid  comments on USA’s strategic directions and the US engagements since the Second World War including Iraq, Iran, ISIL etc.  Especially listen to his answers to the two final questions: The cost of war?; and Why a career in the military is worthwhile?