Gen. George S. Patton – One of the Greatest Combat Generals
Of all the recognizable names known throughout modern United States history, it is that of General George S. Patton that is frequently heard.
Commemorated in countless books, essays, movies, and even TV series, Patton was one of our military’s greatest leaders.
He was also a very unique man with a less-than-likable personality according to some and a temperament that caused its share of challenges over the years.
Yet based on the man’s philosophies and bravery, he is recognized as the greatest battlefield commander and well-known American general from the modern war era.
A Complex and Controversial Man
Though he was a devout Christian who prayed daily and kept up with his faith, George Patton was perceived by many who knew him to have a challenging and even abrasive personality.
He swore profusely, was extremely critical of those who did not agree with him, and even made some extremely controversial decisions while in his command of the Third Army during World War II.
A graduate of West Point Military Academy, Patton was a pentathlete who competed in the 1912 Olympics, the first Olmpics for the Modern Pentathlon.
With a goal only of joining the military, Patton graduated from West Point in 1909 in the middle of his class and while he was no star pupil, his military appointments, physical skill, and sharp mind stood out.
Upon graduation, Patton began his military career as a second lieutenant in the U. S. Cavalry.
In spite of his questionable temperament and a long history of harsh decisions, Patton would go through both World Wars making his impressive marks on the battlefront during WWII and come to be known as the top battlefield commander the United States Army had ever produced.
Known for his infamous quote, “Lead me, follow me, or get out of my way,” Patton was a man of conviction if anything else, with the fearless courage necessary for accomplishing great things.
He lived unapologetically, not to make friends but to protect the freedom of the United States and its allies, freedom that we still enjoy today.
The General of All Generals
Boasting bravery like no other general and with skilled military prowess, General Patton was a force to be reckoned with during WWII.
Patton demanded attention and flaunted his position, berated weaker men even those suffering from combat fatigue, and demanded excellence from those under his command, making him a difficult general to serve under.
Patton also notably commanded the Black Panthers, a revered and first-of-its-kind company of African American soldiers to numerous important victories as well.
Yet unlike many other generals who commanded from behind the scenes, Patton took an active role in the battle from right out in front and on the battlefield, rather than hiding behind the protection of his troops.
His battalions were exceptionally productive in their missions due to that skillful and ever-present leadership.
Analysis of his missions revealed that Patton and his men in Italy, France, and Germany all accomplished their missions in half the time and with greater success, all of which added to his reputation of military excellence.
He was the recipient of numerous military awards including the Distinguished Service Cross, Legion of Merit, Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal, and many others.