General H. Norman Schwarzkopf was a renowned military leader and a brilliant man. However, he started as a military brat.

His father was in the Army, and Schwarzkopf was raised in Iran, Switzerland, Germany, and Italy. He decided to join the military himself, attending West Point. In 1956, he became a second lieutenant.

During his two tours in Vietnam, Schwarzkopf earned three Silver Stars for his bravery. However, that is not the only thing he earned. He became known for being opinionated, plain-spoken, and having a temper, but all his men knew he had their backs.

He became general in 1983 leading troops into Grenada.

Claim to Fame

Schwarzkopf became known for his victory in Iraq. He took a direct approach to win the war. He wanted to get Iraq out of Kuwait.

He worked with the French and German partners and served as Gen Colin Powell's man on the ground. In 1990, he moved 70,000 U.S., European, and Arab troops into Saudi Arabia.

There they confronted the Iraqis. In January of 1991, the allies began a six-week-long air campaign over Iraqi forces in Kuwait.

He also led the ground mission that lasted 100 hours. Allied troops quickly regained Kuwait and decimated the Iraqi army. The allied troops only had minimal losses.

Schwarzkopf retired a year after the epic battle. He passed away in 2012 at the age of 78.

Remembrances

Many leaders gave their condolences when he passed, saying he would be well missed. President Bush offered his condolences.

“Barbara and I mourn the loss of a true American patriot and one of the great military leaders of his generation. A distinguished member of that Long Gray Line hailing from West Point, Gen. Norm Schwarzkopf, to me, epitomized the ‘duty, service, country’ creed that has defended our freedom and seen this great nation through our most trying international crises.”

President Bush

Colin Powell was also deeply saddened by the passing of Schwarzkopf. He called him "a great patriot and a great soldier."

"The highlight of his career was the 1991 Persian Gulf War, Operation Desert Storm. ‘Stormin’ Norman’ led the coalition forces to victory, ejecting the Iraqi Army from Kuwait and restoring the rightful government. His leadership not only inspired his troops but also inspired the nation. He was a good friend of mine, a close buddy. I will miss him."

Former Secretary of State Colin Powell

Source: East Idaho News