Peter Kennedy
LDS Homework 1 Make-up
In the film, Patton, both leaders Bradley and Patton are portrayed in contrast to each other to illustrate their two different styles of leading. George S. Patton was one of the nation’s greatest leaders of all time and his accolades truly shined in his commanding years during WWII. Patton has given many speeches to his troops and soldiers to prepare them mentally for battle. Patton represented America and Freedom with everything he did and led with an iron fist. A speech he gave to his troops in the film, began with, “Americans love a winner, and will not tolerate a loser…” Although his speeches and styles of commanding were meant to help shape soldiers mentally and create mental toughness, the war simply left some soldiers shell-shocked and unable to perform. This is shown in another scene where it illustrates Patton’s relentless and strong willed leading. As Patton confronts one of his soldiers who decides the war is not for him and he cannot continue to carry on, he simply calls the man a “coward”. Patton sees the man as being mentally weak and deciding to le this country down. He punishes the soldier by slapping the helmet off the crying man’s head violently. Patton’s eyes stayed on the prize of winning this Great War and wasn’t considered with casualties of his own men as much as other generals. Omar Bradley, on the other hand, led with a different demeanor, and a different style. Unlike Patton, Bradley never assaulted his soldiers and commonly bumped head and disagreed with Patton’s decisions. Bradley valued the preservation of his soldier’s lives with every action he commanded. General Bradley was often called “The Quiet Infantry Man” although he was known the explore territory right there with his men and travel in an ordinary jeep. He got the most out of his men with patience and good will. A personal relationship with a number of his men was valued by Bradley and he believed it was the way to lead and command his troops.