“What now, lieutenant?” is a question all young Marine officers are as familiar with as they are how to stand at attention, salute, or sing “From the Halls of Montezuma; To the shores of Tripoli; We will fight our country’s battles.” From their earliest days under Marine Drill Instructors to the day they take their first commands, Marine officers prepare for the moment when their leadership, skill, courage, and judgment must carry the day on the battlefield. That moment comes when the eyes of those Marines under their command turn to him or her asking how the hell the officer intends to get them out of a serious mess!

Butch Neal, as a young 1st. lieutenant, had the first of his many “What now, lieutenant” moments at the Battle of Getlin’s Corner, and for his actions, he received the nation’s 3rd. highest award for valor. Then followed an illustrious career in the Marine Corps in which 1st. Lieutenant Butch Neal would become General (that’s 4 stars) Butch Neal, Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps.

What Now, Lieutenant is a book about about leadership, values, courage and the great privilege all Marine officers share in their opportunity to be a “Leader of Marines”. At its conclusion, the reader will understand and experience the life of a Marine grunt in the bush through the highest echelons of the officer corps. It’s exciting, inspirational, and an all-around great read!