This hard-hitting, hard-to-put-down book tells the story of General George S. Patton, Jr.--the most loved, most hated, most controversial combat general of World War II, whose career reached its peak during 1944-1945 as leader of the Third Army. Utilizing access to General Patton's diary, personal letters, memoranda and speeches, author Harry H. Semmes endeavours to illustrate the General's rationale and motives behind his actions, and to elucidate the events that shaped the General's life. Semmes furthermore sought to demonstrate the power of Patton's command during battle, and the influence on those who fought alongside him. "A sympathetic biography of one of America's greatest battle leaders, a hard-riding, flamboyant, profane, religious man who fought as he played--to win. Fine reading."--Journal of the Society of American Military Engineers "Patton was known to his soldiers as a Flashy, hell-for-leather cavalryman whose personal courage rand initiative made him feared by his enemies end loved by those who served under him....His life story is an inspiration to America's future generals and should be required reading for the nation's officer training schools..."--Daily Oklahoman "The full size picture of a forceful, complex man. It belongs in anyone's collection of biographies."--Birmingham News "Harry H. Semmes' Portrait Of Patton is a thrilling story."--America "General George S. Patton, Jr. was without a doubt the most colorful American commander to emerge from World War II."--Books on Trial "An interesting, vivid and sympathetic biography of one of our greatest soldiers of today...a substantial contribution to the true history of American victories."--World Affairs "This controversial man made deep friends and bitter enemies while he lived, but Harry H. Semmes' book demonstrates that it is well for America that he did live--and fight--when he did."--Washington D C. Star