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Patton Leadership Style

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George S. Patton was one of the most famous American Army leaders of his time. Many people who served under Patton have different opinions about him. Some say that he was the best leader they had ever met while others despised him. There are curiously enough, very few opinions of the great General that fall in between the two extremes. Patton was born into a family with a heavy military tradition. Patton looked up to his father and was continuously trying to impress him and make him proud. Patton started his military career at Virginia Military Institute. Although this is one of the best military colleges in the nation, Patton’s dream was to attend West Point. With the help of his father, Patton was afforded the opportunity to attend his dream school and he did not disappoint.
Cadet Patton quickly became known for his military proficiency. He had a desire to serve like no other. He believed strongly that he had been put on this earth for one purpose and that was to be an officer in the military. Patton was also convinced that he was the reincarnation of a General who had served for Napoleon on his conquests. He quickly rose in the Cadet chain of command and excelled in all aspects of military schooling. Fellow Cadets and sometimes Cadre criticized him as being too much of a hard ass, enforcing the standard too strictly. This is where I can identify with the leadership style of Patton. I am often criticized for pushing those under me and holding them to the highest standard

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