George Smith Patton was perhaps the most famous Allied commander in World War II. Specializing in the command of armored and motorized units, he was eccentric, impulsive, and fearless in battle, inspiring terror in his enemies and respect in his allies.

In the book "War as I Knew It," he recounts his actions during World War II. The book was completed a few months before his death in a car accident in December 1945. He was often ruthless in his methods and caustic in his judgments. Patton wrote as he spoke, often while still caught up in the emotions of battle and covered in dust.

His name became legendary, resulting in the establishment of many war museums in his honor. In his hometown of San Gabriel, he is depicted as Saint George in the cathedral.

A film called "Patton" was made about his actions during the war, with George C. Scott in the starring role.