John Mosby and George Patton

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Confederate Commanders

John Mosby and General George Patton

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Colonel John Mosby's Influence Transcends Civil War

Colonel John Singleton Mosby was famous as one of the original innovators in Guerilla warfare. Few people realize that his influence extends far beyond his impact on the Civil War.  It is generally not known that his fighting style had a profound impact on the outcome of World War II.

General George S. Patton was one of the pivotal figures of World War II.  His bold, aggressive, and no-holds-barred combat style reflected his unique understanding that tanks were the Cavalry of modern warfare.  His aggressive and successful command proved to be a differentiating element in the Allies victory in Europe.  In a study of General Patton, one must wonder where he got his unique understanding of mobile warfare, and how we was able to go toe-to-toe with Rommel, and come out on top.  What was Patton's edge, and what gave him the advantage?

General Geroge S. Patton's Bold Military Style and Leadership proved to be a Pivotal Element of World War II.

General George S. Patton had many reasons to be a great military leader. Patton came from a long line of military heroes. His father had lived through the Civil War and had vivid memories of the Confederacy. In the Patton home, there were many mementos of the Civil war; from steel engravings of General Lee and Stonewall Jackson to the shell fragment that was taken from the lifeless body of another Patton hero who died in the Civil War.

During George's childhood, one of the best friends of the Patton family was none-other-than Colonel John S. Mosby, the fabled "Grey Ghost" of J.E.B. Stuart's legendary cavalry. Patton grew up hearing tales of daring raids and stunning cavalry attacks from the Grey Ghost himself. During visits to the Patton Ranch in Southern California, Colonel Mosby would re-enact the Civil War with George; playing himself, he let George play the part of General Lee as they would recount the battles of the war, astride their horses.

These firsthand stories, and horseback re-enactments, directed by one of the greatest Guerilla fighters of all time no doubt had a huge influence on Patton.  Both his sense of bravery and duty, and his Guerilla like tactics were no doubt heavily influenced by his early exploits with John S. Mosby.