The Great Generals: Stilwell, Arnold, MacArthur, Marshall

These are the stories of American Warriors – the lives they led, the victories they won, and the leadership they provided. These insightful biographies provide a unique look at the men that led America’s armies in the epic battles and conflicts of the twentieth century.

In this program, we look at four American Generals and the roles they played during World War II and the Korean War.

1. Joseph W. Stilwell– During World War II Joseph W. Stilwell commanded the China-Burma-India Theater and later was Deputy Commander of the South East Asia Command. Nicknamed “Vinegar Joe” for his acerbic style, he often clashed with Chiang Kai-shek and was ultimately relieved of his command by President Roosevelt.
2. Henry H. Arnold– An aviation pioneer, Henry “Hap” Arnold is widely considered the father of the modern U.S. Air Force. He was the first and only General of the Air Force, and is also the only person to have held the rank of five-star general in both the army and the air force.
3. Douglas MacArthur– Douglas MacArthur’s distinguished military career began during World War I where he served as a Brigadier General. During World War II he was appointed Supreme Commander of Allied Forces in the Southwest Pacific Area. His statement, “I shall return” became the battle cry of the Pacific campaign and for the liberation of the Philippine Islands from Japanese occupation. In the Korean War he served as commander of UN Forces. He eventually rose to General of the Army, one of only a handful of commanders to achieve this rank.
4. George C. Marshall– George C. Marshall was the principal military strategist of World War II. Winston Churchill proclaimed him “the true organizer of victory.” After the war ended, his “Marshall Plan” was instrumental in Europe’s reconstruction. He received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1953.