George Patton

American general whose aggressive, fast-moving command of the Third Army in WWII represents one of history's most effective examples of armored warfare.

Speed as doctrine: Patton's operational philosophy was that relentless advance, even with exposed flanks, disoriented enemy forces faster than they could respond — exploiting paralysis rather than annihilating forces. The Third Army's 100-day campaign after D-Day covered more ground, captured more territory, and liberated more people than any comparable force. His relief of Bastogne during the Battle of the Bulge (pivoting three divisions 90 degrees in winter in 48 hours) is considered one of the greatest logistical feats in military history.