Sacred Oath: A Detailed Summary of Mark Esper's Memoir

Summary of A Sacred Oath By Mark T. Esper: Memoirs of a Secretary of Defense During Extraordinary Times

by David Adams

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	483 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	20 pages

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In his gripping memoir, "Sacred Oath: Memoirs of a Secretary of Defense During Extraordinary Times," Mark Esper provides an intimate and illuminating account of his tenure as the 27th Secretary of Defense under President Donald Trump. Esper's memoir offers a firsthand perspective on the tumultuous events that shaped his time in office, from the withdrawal from Afghanistan to the global COVID-19 pandemic.

Esper's journey to the Pentagon began with a distinguished career in the U.S. Army. After graduating from West Point, he served in various leadership roles, including as the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Negotiations Policy under President George W. Bush. In July 2017, Esper was appointed Secretary of the Army, a position he held until his elevation to Secretary of Defense in July 2019.

Challenges of Leading the Pentagon

Upon assuming the role of Secretary of Defense, Esper faced a myriad of challenges. These included:

• The ongoing war in Afghanistan and the efforts to withdraw U.S. troops
• Tensions with Iran following the killing of General Qasem Soleimani
• The emergence of China as a rising global power
• The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on military readiness

Esper's memoir provides a detailed account of his decision-making process during these critical moments. He candidly discusses the internal debates and external pressures that shaped his policies, including his opposition to the withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan.

Relationship with President Trump

One of the most intriguing aspects of "Sacred Oath" is Esper's portrayal of his relationship with President Trump. While acknowledging Trump's unorthodox leadership style, Esper also highlights the President's focus on military strength and his desire to reduce American involvement in foreign conflicts.

Esper's memoir reveals moments of both collaboration and tension between himself and the President. He describes how he navigated Trump's demands while upholding his own professional judgment and military expertise.

Controversies and Resignation

Esper's tenure as Secretary of Defense was not without controversy. The book addresses several high-profile incidents, including the use of military force to clear protesters from Lafayette Square in June 2020 and the decision to deploy National Guard troops to the U.S. Capitol following the January 6th insurrection.

Esper defends his actions in these situations, arguing that he acted in accordance with his oath to uphold the Constitution and protect the country. However, his memoir also reveals the personal toll that these controversies took on him and his family.

In November 2020, Esper was asked to resign by President Trump following his public criticism of the President's handling of the aftermath of the election. Esper's memoir provides an insider's perspective on this tumultuous period, shedding light on the political pressures and personal sacrifices that led to his departure from the Pentagon.

Legacy and Impact

Mark Esper's "Sacred Oath" is a valuable contribution to the historical record of the Trump Administration and the challenges faced by the U.S. military in the 21st century. Esper's candid and detailed account offers a unique perspective on the critical events that shaped his time in office.

While the memoir provides insight into the complex dynamics of civilian-military relations, it also serves as a reminder of the sacrifices and responsibilities that come with serving the nation at the highest levels of government.

Summary of A Sacred Oath By Mark T. Esper: Memoirs of a Secretary of Defense During Extraordinary Times

by David Adams

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	483 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	20 pages

FREE