Brave and Bold Patton

Author: Liu Wentao Ke Chunqiao
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-03-01
Features: World War II was the largest conflict in human history. In this war between the fascist axis powers and the anti-fascist alliance, the scale of troops and weaponry involved, the breadth of the battlefield, the novelty of combat styles, the magnitude of losses, and the depth of its impact were unprecedented. Despite nearly 50 years having passed since the end of the war, with time and changes, it still attracts numerous military strategists and historians from China and abroad to explore and write about it with its grandeur, profound meaning, and rich heritage. World War II provided countless soldiers with opportunities to showcase their talents and capabilities, giving rise to a generation of outstanding generals. Among the anti-fascist camp, a group of brilliant generals who distinguished themselves with remarkable achievements emerged, their names etched in history for their glorious deeds. The "Illustrated Series on International Figures of World War II" consists of 15 volumes, featuring 15 renowned figures, essentially covering the representative individuals on both sides of the conflict who played decisive roles in politics and military. These include books written by the popular international affairs expert and best-selling author Jie Lifu on the "Three" and "Three" of World War II, as well as those compiled by other military historians on famous generals of the war. Patton was a legendary figure whose entire life was dedicated to becoming a great general, and he ultimately achieved his dream. His life exhibited distinct personal characteristics, sparking diverse opinions from the world. Many regarded him as "a genius in commanding armies and a vanguard with the most aggressive spirit," likening him to "Napoleon of the 20th century"; others, however, criticized him as "brave but lacking in wisdom," "arrogant and superficial." Scholars specializing in Patton's life noted: "As a commander, General Patton's greatest strength lay in motivating his subordinates with his own martial spirit and influencing them to fight bravely on the battlefield." In 1903, Patton enrolled at the Virginia Military Institute. The following June, he entered West Point Military Academy. The academic year focused heavily on drills while neglecting mathematics, resulting in Patton being held back for a year. During his time at the academy, Patton set for himself the following goals: to excel in drills, to become a student adjutant, and to break the West Point track and field records to achieve the standard of an A-grade athlete. Patton's favorite motto was "Don't let fear govern you." In 1909, Patton graduated from West Point and served in the cavalry unit of Illinois, earning the rank of second lieutenant. The following year, he married Beatrice, a wealthy woman. In 1911, Patton was assigned to Fort Meade near Washington D.C., where he gained more opportunities to interact with government officials and served as an aide to both General of the Army John J. Pershing and Secretary of War Elihu Root. Patton believed that the capital was "closer to God than any other place, and ambitious people should settle there." During this period, he not only devoted himself to military studies but also participated in equestrian competitions, finishing fifth. On his way back, Patton improved his swordsmanship at the Smaller cavalry school and inspected European battlefields by car. Later, he earned the title of master swordsman and entered the cavalry school for further studies. In 1915, Patton was transferred to Fort Bliss under the command of Pershing. The following year, he joined Pershing in the Mexican War. In 1917, after the United States entered World War I, Patton served as an aide to General Pershing, the commander of the American Expeditionary Forces, and was promoted to first lieutenant. He was later authorized to command tank units. Patton attended tank schools in both Britain and France, studying tank technology and battle cases, exploring the principles of tank warfare. In early 1918, Patton established a tank training center near Langres, utilizing 22 tanks donated by France to conduct training. He was subsequently promoted to major and then lieutenant colonel. That same year, in June, he completed the formation of six tank battalions; in August, he led a tank brigade in the Saint-Mihiel offensive; and in September, he was hospitalized due to injuries sustained in battle. For his meritorious service, Patton received the Distinguished Service Cross and was promoted to colonel. In 1919, Patton was assigned to the U.S. Army's tank training center at Fort Meade, where he worked alongside Eisenhower, losing his temporary colonel rank to become a major. From 1920 to 1940, when he returned to Fort Benning, Patton was transferred 10 times, holding over 10 different command and staff positions. He advanced his education at the cavalry school, the Army Command and General Staff School, and the Army War College. Patton actively and energetically led drills, diligently worked at his desk, devoted himself to study and research, and frequently participated in various sports competitions. Most of the books in Patton's library were historical and military works. He published dozens of military papers to express his views. Patton believed, "War can be fought with weapons, but victory depends on people. To win, both the commanders and the led must have the right spirit." "Tanks are a special type of highly technical and powerful weapon. With suitable terrain and assigned tasks, tank units can play a decisive role in battles alongside infantry and cavalry," he argued. "Therefore, tank units are now needed as a special mobile reserve force for the command." Major General Smith, commander of the Hawaiian Department, once remarked on Patton: "This man would be invaluable during wartime but a troublemaker during peacetime." Patton, however, considered this a great compliment.