"On Character" - A Fireside Chat with General Stanley McChrystal

Fireside Chat with General Stanley McChrystal

Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to learn from a renowned leader in a special fireside chat!

Keynote Speaker: General Stanley McChrystalAuthor of "On Character: Choices That Define a Life"

Join General McChrystal and MWM President Phyllis Wilson for an insightful conversation on leadership, values, and the choices that shape who we are.

In his latest book, General McChrystal reflects on a lifetime of service, triumphs, and challenges—reminding us that true worth is measured not by rank or titles, but by character. He offers an insightful, steady, and pragmatic vision for living with integrity, purpose, and conviction—guiding readers to focus not just on what they accomplish, but on who they become in the process. Mark your calendars for this powerful evening of inspiration, reflection, and connection.

Reception

We invite you to gather with us prior to the program for a light reception, featuring refreshments and the opportunity to connect with fellow guests.

Tickets

Seating is limited. Reserve your tickets today.

Tickets: $60

Ticket includes a copy of On Character, personally signed by General McChrystal. Don’t miss this chance to be part of a special fireside chat with the General and take home a signed keepsake from this remarkable evening.

Overview

In a world filled with unprecedented challenges—both global and personal— retired four-star General Stanley McChrystal, bestselling author of Team of Teams and My Share of the Task, offers a profound exploration of growth and values in his new book, ON CHARACTER: Choices That Define a Life (Portfolio; 5/13/25).

After a distinguished career of service, General McChrystal found himself contemplating the takeaways of his own journey. He reflected on his successes and failures, his core beliefs, and his aspirations, asking, "Who am I, really? And more importantly, who have I become? When I die, how will I be measured?" His conclusion is both simple and profound: our true selves are not defined by dates or accomplishments but by our character—the most accurate and lasting measure of who we choose to be.

ON CHARACTER draws from a lifetime of experiences, including a compelling and sometimes tumultuous military career, to offer General McChrystal's thought?provoking reflections on the discipline required to live up to our beliefs. By recounting the exhilarating highs and soul-searching lows of a life fully lived, he provides sage writings that transcend the noise of daily life, challenging us to examine not only our accomplishments but also who we become through them. In doing so, he illuminates the big questions we will inevitably face and guides us in pursuing a life marked by integrity, purpose, and conviction.

ON CHARACTER offers a rational and clear-eyed voice, a source of steadiness amid the tumult. It offers an optimistic yet pragmatic vision for living true to our ideals—both as individuals and as Americans.

General Stanley McChrystal

After thirty-four years of service in the US Army, General Stanley McChrystal retired as a four?star general. He was commander of the International Security Assistant Forces in Afghanistan and previously served as commander of the nation’s premier counterterrorism force, the Joint Special Operations Command. The author of My Share of the Task, Team of Teams, Leaders, and Risk, he currently lives in Alexandria, Virginia, with his wife, Annie. He is the founder and CEO of McChrystal Group, a leadership consulting firm that helps enable teams to operate with greater speed and adaptability.

Info: The Military Women's Memorial will have free parking available for guests on Memorial Avenue. For security purposes, parking will not open until Arlington National Cemetery closes at 6PM.

Info: The Military Women's Memorial looks forward to welcoming you to the Memorial for this special program. After checking in with our team members, please join us for a reception with light fare and refreshments.

Info: Our program will open with special remarks by MG Jeanette Edmunds, USA Retired, Military Women's Memorial Board Chair, followed by an insightful conversation between General McChrystal and Military Women's Memorial President Phyllis Wilson.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Military Women's Memorial, Memorial Ave & Schley Dr, Arlington, United States