Bruce Ivar Gudmundsson has spent the better part of five decades along the borderlands where the world of military service meets the realms of journalism and academic endeavor. Over the course of these years, he has written five books and far more articles than he cares to count, mostly on subjects related to warfare in the twentieth century.

Between 1977 and 1997, Gudmundsson served in the Marine Corps Reserve. During those two decades, eight years of which were spent on active duty, he wrangled readiness reports, led mortar men, and designed the curriculum for the School of Advanced Warfighting. At present, he lives in the building that once housed the headquarters for the Marine Barracks at Quantico, Virginia. This provides him with a congenial place for the writing of the Tactical Notebook and a base for his many forays to help Marines learn to the art of teaching with decision-forcing cases and other exercises of their ilk.

John Antal is a Soldier, historian, author, leadership development expert and master storyteller. He has published fourteen books and hundreds of magazine articles on military history, military technology, and leadership topics. John served thirty years in the US Army and retired from the US Army as a Colonel. He is Airborne and Ranger qualified and commanded tank and cavalry units.

In his post-Army career, John has become a successful author, magazine correspondent and editor, video game producer, military consultant, film personality, public speaker, radio talk show host, explainer-integrator, journalist and leadership coach. He has been awarded the prestigious Draper Leadership Award, the Silver Order of Saint George Medal, and numerous military medals including three separate awards of the Legion of Merit. In October 2017, John was awarded the Congressional Veteran Commendation (CVC) by Congressman Sam Johnson of Texas. John's life purpose is to develop leaders and inspire service.