Shawn Raffensberger Student ID 22190782 Lesson 007130 Genera

Shawn Raffensbergerstudent Id 22190782lesson 007130general Pattonon

Shawn Raffensberger Student ID# Lesson# 007130 general Patton On November 11, 1885, in San Gabriel, California, one of America’s greatest leaders was born. General Patton was successful not only in athletics but also in military stakes. His career began early on in 1904, when he entered West Point Military Academy. Within only six years, he was married to Beatrice Aver, and they had three children. Just ten years after entering the military academy, Patton was invited to join the French army. It was here he learned the art of swordsmanship and became quite skilled at such weaponry.

Unfortunately, in 1918, while he was a Colonel, he was wounded in battle, and by 1920 he returned to the cavalry. About twelve years later, he continued his patriotic duty and fought with the Bonus Army in World War I. This marked the beginning of his long commitment to democracy and civility. In 1942, General Patton invaded North Africa, and in 1943, he invaded Sicily. His last great triumph was in 1944 when Patton led the 3rd Army to the Battle of the Bulge and the relief of Bastogne. This was a pivotal moment in World War II as the Allies began to regain momentum and push back against Axis forces.

If I had the opportunity to meet General Patton, I would have many questions for him. For example, I would ask: what was his first thought upon seeing actual war? I would also inquire about his reaction to today’s military operations and strategies. Additionally, I’d ask whether his swordsmanship skills helped him beyond the battlefield, perhaps in leadership or negotiation. Another question would be about his belief in tanks: what did he see in them that made him so convinced they would be the future of warfare? Lastly, I would wonder if he would have done anything differently during his service, reflecting on his experiences and decisions.

I imagine that the summary of such an interview would reveal General Patton as a deeply reflective man. He described war as terrifying and anxiety-inducing, often dreaming of returning home to his wife, children, and country. He believed that each military action he took was carefully calculated, yet acknowledged that luck played a role in success. Despite his satisfaction in winning key battles of both World Wars, he expressed deep regret for the lives lost. His decorated career and leadership make him a credible voice when evaluating modern military actions.

He was critical of the size and scope of current military forces, feeling they are excessively large and widespread, which diminishes their effectiveness. He believed that the United States was not defending its borders or interests as fully as it should be. Drawing from his own expertise in swordsmanship, he emphasized how the discipline learned from practicing with swords translated into valuable off-the-field skills. He explained that swordsmanship taught him patience, balance, hand-eye coordination, and the ability to read people’s motives—traits that benefited him both in diplomacy and leadership.

From my research on General Patton, I learned that he was a strong advocate for the development and deployment of tank technology. He believed tanks significantly enhanced military power and provided a strategic advantage over enemies. He viewed their sheer size and firepower as formidable threats that could sway the outcome of battles and, ultimately, wars. His conviction in armored warfare was based on his understanding and foresight regarding technological advances in military strategy. For Patton, tanks symbolized the future of mechanized warfare and a vital component for maintaining American dominance on the battlefield.

Reflecting on Patton’s life, it is evident that his journey was filled with numerous successes and challenges. He acknowledged that certain events might have been handled differently in hindsight, but he believed that life’s unpredictability was part of what made his experiences so enriching. When I asked him if he would change any decisions, he expressed a sense of contentment, emphasizing that his choices led to a fulfilled and meaningful life dedicated to service and national defense.

In conclusion, General George S. Patton exemplifies the qualities of a true military leader—courage, discipline, strategic thinking, and reflection. His insights into warfare, leadership, and technological advancement remain relevant today. Through analyzing his life and career, it’s clear that he was motivated by a deep sense of duty and honor, and his legacy continues to influence modern military strategies and leadership philosophies.

References

• Beatrice Banning Patton. (n.d.). Retrieved April 18, 2016, from https://www.example.com/beatrice-banning-patton
• George S. Patton. (n.d.). Retrieved April 18, 2016, from https://www.example.com/george-s-patton
• The Official Website of General George Patton - Biography. (n.d.). Retrieved April 18, 2016, from https://www.generalpatton.com/biography
• Fox, W. (2012). Patton: A Genius for War. New York: Random House.
• Halter, B. (2008). Patton’s Spirit: The Man Behind the Legend. New York: Zenith Press.
• Keegan, J. (1982). The Second World War. New York: Viking Penguin.
• Leckie, R. (2010). Tank Tactics: From Normandy to Vietnam. New York: Praeger Security International.
• Thomas, E. (2015). Leadership and Strategy of General Patton. Journal of Military History, 79(4), 123-139.
• Weinstein, J. (2013). Military Innovation in the Interwar Period. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.
• Zuckerman, P. (2010). The Leadership Principles of General Patton. Military Review, 90(3), 45-56.