Douglas MacArthur graduated from West Point with the highest honors in his class. Brilliant and controversial, he carried his ambition and lust for achievement through posts in World War I, World War II, and the Korean War.

During the course of World War I, MacArthur was promoted to full general and became army chief of staff. MacArthur battled the Japanese in the Philippines during World War II, and served as a Allied commander of the Japanese occupation.

The Korean War began in 1950, and MacArthur was soon selected to command United Nations forces there. After initial success, he then encountered massive Chinese resistance and entered into a bitter dispute with President Truman. Despite Truman's insistence on a limited war, MacArthur persisted in initiating the offensive. He was relieved of command by Truman for insubordination in 1951. Ever aloof and enigmatic, MacArthur retired to private life, the symbol of zealous dedication to duty, honor and country.