Commander, United States Marine Corps Forces, Central Command Reading List

Commander's Intent: The Global War on Terrorism is a long war, and as such we need to continue our preparation to be engaged in all aspects of this war. For our current fights the MARCENT Reading List provides a collection of readings to be read dependent upon your grade and how long you have before deploying. Whether part of a unit or an individual augment, my intent is to prepare you for the operational, tactical, cultural and environmental factors affecting your specific fight. This reading list is not all inclusive and your local command may require you to accomplish other tasks in preparation for deployment as well. All of these actions will ensure we send educated, well-trained and properly prepared Marines into the fight. Turn-to, get it done, you and your Marines will be better for your efforts.

LtGen James N. Mattis

Commander, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Central Command

Section I is a list of articles, books and publications that are required reading for all hands to prepare for your upcoming deployment to the USCENTCOM Area of Responsibility (AOR).

Section II is recommended reading separated into specific regions within the AOR. Applicable ranks are assigned and each item is marked by the estimate amount of time that the item can be completed prior to deployment. The time allotted permits prioritization of the reading requirements should a Marine receive late notification for deployment.

I. Require reading list for all Marines and Sailors deploying to USCENTCOM AOR.

All Ranks

Staff NCOs, CPOs, Company Grade Offices and Above

Colonels and General Officers

II. Recommended Reading for Marines and Sailors Deploying to Specific Regions of USCENTCOM’s AOR

Afghanistan

Corporals and Below

Sergeants and Above and Company Grade Officers

Staff NCOs and Field Grade Officers

Djibouti / Horn of Africa

Sergeants and Company Grade Officers

Staff NCOs and Field Grade Officers

Iraq

Sergeants and Company Grade Officers

Greater Middle East

Corporals and Below

Sergeants and Company Grade Officers

Staff NCOs and Field Grade Officers

MARCENT Coordination Elements