Don Wildman

Thanks for tuning us in.

From time to time on this series, we'll take a look at history from another angle, not concentrate so much on a singular moment or pivotal event, but rather back up for a broader view.

Make comparisons between different ages and iconic figures who commanded them, in this case, quite literally.

Today on this episode, we're looking at who were the greatest generals of American history.

We've shortlisted this to four, the four greatest generals of U.S.

American history, understanding this is a slim number considering over 250 years we've produced something like 4,000 generals across all the branches of the U.S.

military.

So we've narrowed things down and such a conversation requires an expert.

And once more, we're calling on our friend and frequent guest, Major Jonathan Bratton of the Maine National Guard, who has served actively as an engineer officer, a sapper in the parlance, as well as command historian.

Major Bratton is the author of To the Last Man, a National Guard regiment in the Great War era.

1917 to 1919, which chronicles the Guard's 103rd Infantry Regiment in World War I. Cool stuff.

Welcome, Jonathan.

Welcome back to American History Hit.

Thanks so much, Don.

It's great to be here.

Thanks for having me.

So, Jonathan, we got four generals to explain today.

But first, I got to ask a more general question.

I'm curious, how do members of the military, such as yourself, think of generals?

I mean, generally speaking, is it a stratospheric achievement?