Pershing, General John J. (1860–1948)

Abstract John J. Pershing commanded the American Expeditionary Force (AEF) in World War I. He had the distinction of being the only World War I commander in chief to retain his command for the duration of his country's participation in the war. He was the first born of Elizabeth Thompson and John Fletcher Pershing (the great‐grandson of an Alsatian named Frederick Pfoershing who had immigrated to the United States in 1749 as an indentured servant). Born in Laclede, Missouri, on January 13, 1860, he attended West Point (1882–1886). Having earlier taught at a country school, he was older and more mature than most of his fellow cadets. Although not an outstanding student he was chosen president of his class for his leadership qualities. A decorated soldier, his experiences included active service against the Apaches and Sioux in the desert southwest, fighting at San Juan Hill in the Spanish–American War, and a tour of duty in the Philippines against the rebellious Moros. He also taught as an assistant instructor in tactics at West Point, where some cadets considered him a martinet and gave him the nickname “Black Jack,” a derogatory reference to his having once commanded African‐American troopers on the frontier. Prior to America's entry into the war, he led the Punitive Expedition, the US Army's last cavalry campaign, into northern Mexico in an unsuccessful attempt to capture the Mexican leader Francisco (Pancho) Villa.