John W. O'Daniel Military person

John W. "Iron Mike"O'Daniel (February 15, 1894 – March 27, 1975) was a United States Army general, best known for commanding the Third Infantry Division in North Africa, Sicily, Italy, and Southern France during World War II. He is also known for being the commanding officer of Audie Murphy.O’Daniel was an athlete, a teacher, a diplomat, and a lifetime military professional. He was short of stature (five foot six inches), an outspoken, doughty, gravel-voiced, combat leader of men through three major wars spanning a forty year career. His motto was, “sharpen your bayonet”. In his memoirs, Eisenhower called him “one of our outstanding combat soldiers”. The press likened him to General Patton for his strong personal opinions and his fearless demeanor, as well as his dash and daring in moving the Third Infantry Division across the European Theater of Operations.

Personal facts

John W. O'Daniel
Birth dateFebruary 15, 1894
Birth place
Newark Delaware
Date of deathMarch 27, 1975
Place of death
San Diego

Search

Military person

award
Distinguished Service Cross (United States)
military operations
World War II
military branch
United States Army
military command2/24th Infantry 168th Infantry 3rd Infantry Division I Corps Military Assistance Advisory Group
service start1913
service end1955

John W. O'Daniel on Wikipedia