The United States Marine Corps is the largest such force on the planet, and yet it is the smallest, most elite section of the U.S. military, one with a long and storied history. Here, in the most current version of the manual used by the Corps itself, is an explanation of the philosophy that makes the Marine Corps unique-here are the concepts and values behind how the Corps fights. Topics discussed include: . war defined . the science, art, and dynamic of war . war as an act of policy . styles of warfare . professional military education . the philosophy of command . and more. Military buffs, war-gamers, and anyone seeking to understand the increasingly complicated global stage will find this a fascinating and informative document.