Throughout history, there have literally been THOUSANDS of great military leaders. Some were famous. And others weren’t as famous, but they were still great leaders.
What I’d like to know is who is your favorite military leader of all time and why? What do you admire about the person? What makes them stick out to you?
I’ll get the conversation started by telling you that my favorite military leader of all time is George Washington. There are so many neat things I admire about George Washington. Here are a few:
- He was made commander of the Virginia militia, even though he had no prior military experience
- He had no formal military training
- He saw action in the French and Indian War
- After the Second Continental Congress he was named Commander in Chief of the Colonial Army (which he pretty much formed and trained)
- He wasn’t known as a military strategist, but he was great at keep his Soldiers motivated on the battlefield (he was a leader)
- His troops had very little food, training, ammunition, clothes and supplies, but he kept them motivated
- He served until his country eventually won the Revolutionary War and became a hero (and eventually the first President)
When you think about the few things he had going for him, it’s actually quite amazing that he achieved so much success as a military leader! And that’s why George Washington is my favorite military leader of all time. If it weren’t for him, there might not even be a United States today. If he were alive today, or if I could go back in time, I would love to meet him and pick his brain.
Please chime in and tell me who your favorite military leader of all time is. Just leave a comment to share your thoughts. I look forward to hearing from you.
Chuck Holmes
Former Army Major (resigned)
Publisher, Part-Time-Commander.com
Email: mrchuckholmes@gmail.com
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My favorite leader is GEN Patton. Like stated before, he was a strong leader. He was a strong statistician and was smart tactically. He did what he thought was right even if it meant going against the grain. Any vets I have talked to that served under him loved him as a leader.
Good point, Michael. He is one of my heroes too!
OK, I’ll go modern here and say General Colin Powell. I’ve always admired his professionallism and intellect. You could always count on him saying something that reflected well on the military.
General Powell is one of my top five favorites. He is a classy guy, great tactician and amazing leader!
Thanks for all the comments everyone. This is turning into a very interesting conversation.
Ok, guys, I apologize. I had a "major" brain pause, because it is Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson and Andrew "Old Hickory" Jackson. Old Hickory joined the Continental Army at age 13. Stonewall actually earned his nickname at the Battle of Manassas. Confused the Jacksons–that's what I get for relying on my 45-year-old memory. Thank you for catching that.
What?!?!?! That's unbelievable!! You must be joking!! I thought you were 27!!
No worries.
Although General Patton is near the top of my list, I would have to choose Andrew "Stonewall" Jackson. Hard-nosed and fearless, the General's use of unconventional tactics against Indian enemy forces in 1814, as well as his victory in New Orleans during the War of 1812, advances him to the top of my list. He was tough but fair, and clearly effective, and I love a guy who thinks outside of the box! His becoming the seventh president of the United States clinches the top spot.
I never knew that President Andrew Jackson had the nickname “Stonewall Jackson” and I never knew that he was in the military either. I thought “Stonewall Jackson” was Thomas Jackson, a Civil War General for the Confederacy. After doing some research online I found that President Andrew Jackson’s nickname was “Old Hickory.” Thanks for the great comment, Amy.
Just about to say…I think you mean OLD HICKORY!
Too easy on this one, Chuck. George S. Patton. I admire this man, not only because he is one of the most infamous Armor Officers in history, but also because of how he lead. G.S. Patton was known for his no-BS attitude, rough and tough exterior and love of his job and his Soldiers. While often ruffling up some feathers and other peers/superiors generally disliking him, history was good to Patton and his decisions and leadership left a huge hallmark on the campaigns in North Africa and Europe. I often feel like I have a bit of Patton in me with that respect as I often go against the grain much to the dismay of what others may think… Great leader, brilliant military mind and a true hero in my mind.
General Patton came in a very close second place for me, Justin. It was a toss up. Tactically speaking, I can’t think of a better military leader in all of history. And I loved his mental toughness!