Book Review: Generals and Admirals, Criminals and Crooks: Dishonorable Leadership in the U.S. Military

Authors

Josh VanBuskirk

Files

Description

Author: Jeffrey J. Matthews

Reviewed by: Lieutenant Colonel Josh VanBuskirk, instructor, Defense Strategy Foundation Course, Department of Distance Education, US Army War College

In this provocative and meticulously researched book, Jeffrey J. Matthews exposes the dark underbelly of US military leadership through a century of scandals—from war crimes and insubordination to corruption and abuse. Through gripping case studies, Matthews reveals how personal failings, and institutional blind spots have repeatedly undermined the integrity of America’s flag officers. A sobering exploration of power and accountability, the book challenges readers to rethink what ethical leadership truly demands in times of crisis.

Publication Date

1-12-2026

Keywords

ethics, leadership failure, war crimes, US military history, civil-military relations

Disciplines

Defense and Security Studies

Recommended Citation

Josh VanBuskirk, Book Review: Generals and Admirals, Criminals and Crooks: Dishonorable Leadership in the U.S. Military ( US Army War College Press, 2026),
https://press.armywarcollege.edu/parameters_bookshelf/104