General William Childs Westmoreland was the US Army commander who led American forces during the early years of the Vietnam War. Having entered the service in 1932, he distinguished himself during World War II and the Korean War. Appointed to lead US forces in Vietnam in 1964, he sought to defeat the Viet Cong through the large-scale use of artillery, air power, and large-unit battles. Though his troops were frequently victorious, he was unable to end the North Vietnamese insurgency in South Vietnam and was relieved following the 1968 Tet Offensive. Westmoreland later served as Army Chief of Staff.
Early Life
Born on March 26, 1914, William Childs Westmoreland was the son of a Spartanburg, SC textile manufacturer. Joining the Boy Scouts as a youth, he achieved the rank of Eagle Scout before entering the Citadel in 1931. After one year in school, he transferred to West Point. During his time at the academy he proved to be an exceptional cadet and by graduation had become the corps' first captain. In addition, he received the Pershing Sword which was given to the most outstanding cadet in the class. After graduation, Westmoreland was assigned to the artillery.
