Don Wildman

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?

And explain what's with the stars.

That might knock them down a few pegs.

Right.

But we do think of these guys as luminaries.

I mean, of course, the five star general is just an untouchable position to be in.

What makes a great general, in your opinion?

Oh, that's a tough one.