An outstanding tank commander in the U.S. Army during World War II, General Creighton W. Abrams (1914-1974) continued to serve in the army in various capacities including commander of U.S. forces in Vietnam from 1968 to 1972 and as Army chief of staff from 1972 to 1974.

Creighton W. Abrams was born on September 15, 1914, in Springfield, Massachusetts. He graduated from West Point in 1936 with a mediocre academic record and a reputation as a prankster. After finishing the Cavalry School at Fort Bliss, Texas, he served with the First Cavalry Division and later with the newly created First Armored Division.

During World War II, Abrams emerged as one of the most aggressive and effective tank commanders in the U.S. Army. He was promoted to lieutenant colonel in September 1942 and in September 1943 he was given command of the 37th Tank Regiment. His regiment led the sweep of Gen. George Patton's Third...