William Westmoreland, born on March 26, 1914, in Spartanburg, South Carolina, was a prominent U.S. Army general best known for his command during the Vietnam War. He graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1936 and quickly rose through the ranks, gaining a reputation for his leadership in World War II and the Korean War. His strategic approach often emphasized the use of conventional military tactics combined with an extensive logistical framework. Westmoreland served as the commander of U.S. forces in Vietnam from 1964 to 1968, during a pivotal period of American involvement in the conflict. He was a proponent of a strategy known as "search and destroy," aiming to eliminate Viet Cong forces through significant troop deployments. His methods, however, faced criticism as the war progressed, especially as the public became increasingly skeptical of U.S. military strategies and goals in Vietnam. After he returned from Vietnam, Westmoreland continued to serve in various high-ranking positions within the military until his retirement in 1972. His legacy is complex, marred by the contentious history of the Vietnam War and the challenges faced by U.S. forces during that era. He passed away on July 18, 2005, leaving behind a divided opinion on his impact and effectiveness as a military leader. William Westmoreland, born March 26, 1914, in Spartanburg, South Carolina, was a key figure in the U.S. military during the Vietnam War. He graduated from West Point in 1936 and became known for his leadership in World War II and the Korean War. As commander of U.S. troops in Vietnam from 1964 to 1968, he advocated for a "search and destroy" strategy, focusing on destroying enemy forces. His tactics, however, faced growing criticism as the Vietnam War escalated and public opinion turned against the conflict. After retiring in 1972, he held various military roles but his legacy remains controversial due to the Vietnam War's challenging history. Westmoreland passed away on July 18, 2005, leaving a complicated mark on military strategy and leadership.