One of the most well know and controversial American Generals of all time is Gen. George Patton. I find it very appropriate that Veteran's Day is also his birthday. He was your quintessential soldier's soldier, and is even buried among his men that died fighting at the Battle of the Bulge in Luxembourg. From chasing Pancho Villa to fighting under Blackjack Pershing in WWI to pushing for the creation of the first US tank force to his most famous successful leadership in WWII Patton was a soldier from birth and never was bashful in proclaiming his desire to be a 20th century American hero. His prayer below is very appropriate to take in as we remember our Veteran's.
"God of our fathers, who by land and sea have ever led us to victory, please continue your inspiring guidance in this the greatest of all conflicts. Strengthen my soul so that the weakening instinct of self-preservation, which besets all of us in battle, shall not blind me of my duty to my own manhood, to the glory of my calling, and to my responsibility to my fellow soldiers. Grant to our armed forces that disciplined valor and mutual confidence which insures success in war. Let me not mourn for the men who have died fighting, but rather let me be glad that such heroes have lived. If it be my lot to die, let me do so with courage and honor in a manner which will bring the greatest harm to the enemy, and please, oh Lord, protect and guide those I shall leave behind. Give us the victory, Lord."
General George Patton
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