A hero is an individual that can be defined as one who possesses courage and bravery. This is the broadest definition in reference to describing the term hero. However, could a hero be capable of possessing multiple amounts of qualities, especially those considered negative or inconsistent with a hero's behavior? Such traits as violence and bloodlust, are these characteristics the first to be mentioned right after bravery and courage? Or are they simply kept for those deemed evil, such as Mussolini or Hitler? Nevertheless, General George S. Patton is one of these heroes that redefine what it means to be one.
Although his qualities were different and opposite to Eisenhower, he still led an incredible campaign through Europe, liberating all of France, North Africa, and Sicily. Patton's autobiography, War as I Knew It, describes his campaign throughout the European theater with his own personal notes compiled at the conclusion of his memoir. The film, Patton, is based on the life of the general through historical interpretations from not only his book, but from his companion and superior officer, General Omar Bradley. This film brings to light not only Patton's miraculous strategy but also his flaws.
[...] Operation Husky was the joint allied strategy to invade the Sicilian Island. British General Montgomery planned for the British Eighth Army to march towards Messina while the American Seventh Army, under Patton was to watch Montgomery's left flank. This plan did not fly with Patton and he later went off course to take Palermo to the north of the island and then beat the British to Messina. The SHAEF is the Supreme Headquarters of the Allied Expeditionary Force, which was made up of General Eisenhower, General Montgomery, and all the other leading Generals of World War II. [...]
[...] Heroes are individuals that determine the outcome and moral of a war. Of course fallen victims of war are heroes as well, but heroes that command great feats and are still among the living not only raise the moral for the troops fighting but also the public back home. Crossland believes that in today's society have overlooked perhaps the most important image in our arsenal, that of the hero of war, and of his or her determination” (Crossland). This is something Patton achieved while campaigning through Europe. [...]
[...] Patton stands out because of his intimidating violent character and the fear that was caused from it, which managed to install itself in the hearts of the German soldiers and influence the strategies of their commanding officers. All of these unique qualities can be deeply described within Patton's early biographical life. George S. Patton was born on November 11th in San Gabriel, California. His family tree traced as far back as being involved in the Revolutionary War and the French and Indian War. [...]
[...] Perf George C. Scott. Twentieth Century-Fox Film Corporation. September 1970. Patton, George S. War As I Knew It. New York: Mariner Books, May 8th 1995. Pols, Hans. “Waking up to shell shock: psychiatry in the US military during World War Unit for History and Philosophy of Science Volume 30, Issue 4. University of Sydney, Sydney NSW, Australia. [...]
[...] It was my opinion then that this was the momentous error of the (Patton 120). Patton's opinion that the Allied command was wrong in their tactical decision is something that defines him more as a secular hero than any other commander. On the other hand, this outspoken attitude ended Patton's long campaign in Europe due to his political view of the Soviet Union and the lack of trust he had for the Russians. Patton possessed biased feelings in regards to shell-shocked victims, however he believed in the same screening process as psychiatrists do today. [...]
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