Only the Best Get This Rank – What Makes the 6-Star General So Special?

The rank of six-star general is an extraordinary honor in the U.S. military, bestowed only three times throughout history. Among the recipients, only one achieved this status during his lifetime, while two were honored posthumously. These legendary figures left such a profound impact during wartime that their careers remain unparalleled.

John J. Pershing: A Trailblazer in Military Leadership

Before earning the coveted six-star rank, John J. Pershing carved out a career of perseverance and determination. After graduating from the United States Military Academy at West Point, Pershing spent his early years battling Apache and Lakota Sioux warriors in New Mexico and other frontier outposts. His leadership earned him a promotion to first lieutenant with the 10th Cavalry Regiment in Montana.

By 1898, Pershing’s skills were called upon during the Spanish-American War. Leading troops in pivotal battles such as Santiago de Cuba and San Juan Hill, he earned a Silver Citation Star, later upgraded to a Silver Star, and a promotion to captain. His career continued its upward climb in the Philippines, where his efforts to quell the Moro Rebellion secured him the title of brigadier general.

In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson tasked Pershing with leading an ambitious expedition into Mexico to capture revolutionary leader Pancho Villa, who had raided Columbus, New Mexico. Though Villa evaded capture, Pershing’s campaign showcased his strategic expertise and bolstered his reputation.

A Commander Who Refused to Sacrifice His Soldiers

World War I marked the pinnacle of Pershing’s career. Promoted to six-star general, he was appointed to lead the American Expeditionary Force (AEF) in France. His mission: to transform an inexperienced U.S. military into a formidable force.

Despite pressure from French and British allies to integrate American soldiers into their ranks, Pershing remained firm. He famously rejected the idea, calling it “pouring new wine into old bottles,” and prioritized the independence of U.S. forces. This decision preserved American lives and elevated the United States as a powerful global player in the war.

After the war, Pershing became the first to hold the newly created rank of General of the Armies of the United States, symbolized by gold stars that he personally designed. He retained this prestigious title until his passing in 1948.

George Washington: A Posthumous Promotion for a National Icon

More than a century before Pershing, George Washington laid the groundwork for American military success. As commander of the Continental Army, Washington led the colonies to victory against British forces in the Revolutionary War, securing his place as a founding father of the nation.

However, during his lifetime, Washington’s military rank of three-star lieutenant general left him outranked by officers who served in later wars. To honor his legacy, Congress passed a law in 1978 posthumously promoting him to six-star general, retroactive to July 4, 1976. This ensured that “no officer of the United States Army should outrank Lieutenant General George Washington.”

Ulysses S. Grant: From Battlefield Strategist to National Leader

Before becoming the 18th president of the United States, Ulysses S. Grant established himself as a brilliant military leader. His education at West Point and early service in the Mexican-American War showcased his tactical abilities.

Grant rose to prominence during the Civil War, leading the Union to crucial victories at Fort Donelson, Shiloh, and Vicksburg. His bold strategies, including splitting Confederate forces, earned him the trust of President Abraham Lincoln and eventually the title of commander of the Union Army. Following the Confederate surrender in 1865, Grant transitioned into politics and served two terms as president.

In December 2022, 200 years after his birth, Grant joined the ranks of Pershing and Washington as a six-star general. This long-overdue honor was part of the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act, signed by President Joe Biden, celebrating Grant’s legacy of military excellence.

A Rank Reserved for Legends

The six-star rank is a rare and symbolic tribute to unparalleled service. With only three recipients to date—Pershing, Washington, and Grant—its exclusivity reflects the extraordinary contributions of these leaders. Whether the U.S. military will ever award this honor again remains to be seen, but for now, their stories continue to inspire generations.