I Served in the CIA’s Zero Units
Elliot Ackerman draws on his experience as a Marine and CIA paramilitary officer to explain the history of Afghanistan’s CIA-sponsored Zero Units and why the actions of one former member...
A Man Should Know: How to Say Thank You
In this installment of A Man Should Know, Elliot Ackerman explores the art of expressing gratitude, arguing that a thoughtful thank-you note can deepen relationships and become a lasting reminder...
A Man Should Know: How to Form an Opinion
In this installment of A Man Should Know, Elliot Ackerman reflects on the importance of intellectual curiosity, arguing that the best opinions are formed by understanding multiple perspectives and asking...
A Man Should Know: How to Own a Watch
In this installment of A Man Should Know, Elliot Ackerman explores the value of owning a watch, arguing that meaningful possessions are shaped not by their price but by the...
A Man Should Know: How to Be a Friend
In this installment of A Man Should Know, Elliot Ackerman explores the nature of male friendship, arguing that strong bonds are built through shared experiences, consistency, and showing up for...
A Man Should Know: How to Introduce Himself
In the first installment of A Man Should Know, Elliot Ackerman explores the overlooked skill of introducing yourself, arguing that meaningful relationships, opportunities, and understanding often begin with a handshake...
Pete Hegseth and Warrior Culture
Drawing on his experience as a Marine infantry officer in Iraq, Elliot Ackerman critiques Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s focus on military culture, arguing that successful leadership depends on competence, humility,...
How Being an Intelligence Officer Made Me a Better Writer
Elliot Ackerman reflects on intelligence work, fiction, special operations, and the experiences that shaped his novel Sheepdogs.
Do Not Mourn Me Dead
In this Memorial Day reflection, Elliot Ackerman revisits the moving final letter of Union officer Sullivan Ballou, drawing connections between America’s past wars and his own experiences in Iraq and...
Met Gala Fashion Police: Who's the Dandiest?
In this culture piece for The Free Press, Suzy Weiss and Elliot Ackerman review the 2025 Met Gala and its theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.” The essay examines celebrity fashion,...
How to Dress Like a Gentleman—and Why
Drawing on lessons from the Marines, the CIA, and family mentors, Elliot Ackerman explores why style matters, the difference between fashion and craftsmanship, and how dressing with intention reflects confidence,...
Why Does Pete Hegseth Keep Talking About ‘Warfighters’?
In this commentary for The Free Press, Elliot Ackerman analyzes Pete Hegseth’s vision for military leadership, arguing that the language of “warfighters” has been used to deepen divisions within the...
Bring Back the War Department
In this essay for The Atlantic, Elliot Ackerman argues that renaming the Department of Defense as the Department of War would do more than revive an old title. It would...
The U.S. Isn’t Ready for a Modern War
Drawing on lessons from World War II and observations from Ukraine, Elliot Ackerman argues that modern warfare rewards scalable production and rapid innovation as much as advanced technology. As low-cost...
The Abandonment of Ukraine
Following a visit to Ukraine alongside bipartisan members of Congress, Elliot Ackerman and Karl Marlantes examine the realities of the battlefield, the rapid pace of military innovation, and the consequences...