Commanding the United States Third Army during the Allied advance across France, General George S. Patton played a critical role in the defeat of Nazi Germany. His military career, spanning from the 1916 Pancho Villa Expedition to the end of the Second World War, established him as a central figure in the development of American armored warfare doctrine.
Early Development and Education
Born in 1885 in San Gabriel, California, Patton pursued a lifelong military path. He attended the Virginia Military Institute before transferring to the United States Military Academy at West Point, graduating in 1909. During his early years, he focused on cavalry training and specialized in the modern pentathlon, competing in the 1912 Summer Olympics in Stockholm. His early expertise extended to design, notably creating the M1913 Cavalry Saber.
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Patton served in the Tank Corps during World War I, commanding a tank school in France before leading troops into combat, where he sustained injuries. Throughout the interwar period, he occupied various staff positions and advanced armored doctrine within the United States Army. By the time the United States entered the Second World War, he commanded the 2nd Armored Division.
Command in Europe
In 1942, Patton led forces in the Mediterranean theater during Operation Torch. He subsequently commanded the Seventh Army in Sicily, where he achieved rapid territorial gains. Following a period removed from command due to disciplinary controversies, he returned to lead the Third Army across France after the June 1944 Normandy invasion. He notably directed the relief of American units at Bastogne during the Battle of the Bulge.
Final Assignments and Death
After the conclusion of hostilities in Europe, Patton served as the military governor of Bavaria. His tenure ended following public remarks concerning the Soviet Union and criticism of the denazification process. He briefly commanded the Fifteenth United States Army before suffering severe injuries in a vehicle accident. He died in Heidelberg on 21 December 1945 and is interred at the Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial.
Fast facts
- Born: 1885, San Gabriel
- Died: 1945, Heidelberg
- Rank: General
- Education: United States Military Academy
- Notable Command: Third United States Army
- Olympic participation: 1912 Modern Pentathlon
Questions readers ask
What military units did Patton command?
He served in the 2nd Armored Division, I Armored Corps, Seventh United States Army, Third United States Army, and the Fifteenth United States Army.
Where is George S. Patton buried?
He is buried at the Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial.
Achievements
- Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire
- Educated at United States Army War College, United States Military Academy and United States Army Command and General Staff College
- Worked as autobiographer, swimmer and military personnel
