When General Patton arrived on the ship Mary to greet the crew, Sergeant Bill Pajewski felt a mix of awe and surprise. He nudged Corporal Sam McCarthy and pointed out Patton, famously known as "Old Blood and Guts," highlighting the general's commanding presence. The moment revealed Pajewski's admiration for Patton, showcasing the hero-worship that many soldiers held for him.

In response to Pajewski's excitement, McCarthy performed a gesture of reverence by crossing himself, reflecting the deep respect and almost superstitious reverence that soldiers had for Patton. This interaction encapsulates the intense admiration and complex emotions soldiers experienced towards their leaders during a tumultuous time.