Gen. Mattis Says Don't Call Me Mad Dog

The transcript discusses the book 'Call Sign Chaos' by Bing West, focusing on the origin and meaning of the call sign 'Chaos' given to a Colonel in the Mojave Desert. The Colonel shares a humorous story about how his subordinates coined the call sign. The conversation shifts to the 'Mad Dog' nickname, which the Colonel dislikes due to its self-aggrandizing nature and the serious responsibility of signing next of kin letters. The transcript highlights the importance of empathy and the challenges faced by military personnel in communicating with families of fallen soldiers.

What was the origin of the call sign 'Chaos'?

• It was a nickname given by the press.

• It was a humorous suggestion by subordinates.

• It was a title given by the Marines.

• It was a self-chosen nickname.

Why does the speaker not prefer the nickname 'Mad Dog'?

• It was a nickname he chose himself.

• It was a popular nickname among his peers.

• It was not given by his troops.

• It does not reflect the values taught by the Marines.

What does the speaker emphasize about the Marines' teachings?

• They prioritize humorous nicknames.

• They encourage adopting press-given nicknames.

• They emphasize toughness in different ways.

• They focus on self-promotion.

What is one of the most challenging tasks the speaker mentions?

• Leading a large regiment.

• Writing a book.

• Adopting a new nickname.

• Signing next of kin letters.

Why does the speaker shy away from the 'Mad Dog' nickname?

• It was a nickname he never used.

• It was a nickname given by his operations officer.

• It was not popular among his troops.

• It creates a misleading image for families of fallen soldiers.