Why Was General Pershing Called Blackjack?

General John J. Pershing was one of the most decorated officers in United States history.

He served during World War I, World War II, and the Korean War and was awarded the Medal of Honor, the highest honor that can be bestowed on a soldier by the United States government.

One of the things that made Pershing such a respected officer was his ability to lead from the front. In 1916, he was leading troops in France when he was injured in a car accident.

Despite his injuries, Pershing refused to be evacuated and continued to lead his troops.

In 1927, General Pershing was leading troops in Mexico when he was accused of gambling on horse races. He was eventually cleared of all charges and returned to duty.

In 1931, General Pershing led troops in China during the Sino-Japanese War. He was promoted to Commander-in-Chief of the United States Army and became known as “Blackjack” because he never lost a hand of poker.

General Pershing died in 1948 at the age of 80 after a long career fighting for American democracy. He is buried at Arlington National Cemetery next to General George Patton and other famous military leaders.

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