Born to one of the wealthiest families in San Gabriel, California, George Smith Patton, Jr. (1885–1945) was a complex man who was dyslexic and loved poetry.

“Say what you mean and mean what you say,” he advised, and had the reputation of speaking his mind with a steady stream of colorful words that underscored his philosophy of “giving it to 'em straight and dirty...so they'll understand it.”

Called “Old Blood and Guts,” the controversial general commanded U.S. forces in Europe during World War II and was considered a battlefield genius.His bold armored advances across France and into Germany helped accelerate the Allied victory in Europe.

“A pint of sweat,” he said, “saves a gallon of blood.”

Immortalized on screen by George C. Scott in the Academy Award-winning film Patton, the General inspired others to accomplish the seemingly impossible. He challenged his men to “do more than is required of you.”

Patton was colorful, controversial, and undeniably brilliant. The Germans respected his military instincts, and his own soldiers trusted his relentless determination. "Do as I have taught you," he told them, "and you will stay alive." His greatest victories were not simply battles won, but the confidence he inspired in those entrusted with impossible missions.