PRAISE FOR CRUCIBLES "Coauthors Rear Admiral Jim McNeal and J. Eric Smith know how to tell a story that informs, influences, and leaves a lasting impact with the reader. They've done it with a previous book and succeeded again with Crucibles . Each has tremendous credibility writing about formidable rites of passage in elite organizations because each displayed their own measure of outstanding 'Teamwork, Tone, Tenacity' while serving in unique locations and organizations, such as southwest Asia combat zones and the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program. What's especially intriguing about this fascinating topic of Crucibles is the wide professional and geographic diversity of organizations that are examined across modern and ancient times. Want to be educated and entertained? Read one of Jim McNeal's and J. Eric Smith's books!" --Rear Admiral Paul Becker, USN (Ret) Former Director for Intelligence (J2), Joint Chiefs of Staff "Always looking for gems in the hidden and unique aspects of history, both McNeal and Smith know how to select appealing and interesting topics that pull a reader into an engaging book. With their unique ability to assimilate disparate historical facts, in this book they are experts at how to methodically conduct a thorough examination of the distinct and usually shielded world of rituals required to enter certain groups or societies.

Each author possesses that special ability to expose a reader to the mental, physical, and social commitments that make one experience an enlightening lesson in how people interact and why they are willing to conform themselves to belong to groups or societies. At times funny, serious, and disarming, both authors are brilliant writers who will create a book that pulls readers into wanting to know more about how the social need to belong affects group dynamics and why individuals choose to become part of the fabric of those groups." --Commander Kirk S. Lippold, USN (Ret) Former Commanding Officer, USS Cole (DDG 67).