John W. O'Daniel

John W. O'Daniel

John W. "Iron Mike" O'Daniel (February 15, 1894 – March 27, 1975) was a United States Army general, best known for commanding the Third Infantry Division in North Africa, Sicily, Italy, and Southern France during World War II. He is also known for being the commanding officer of Audie Murphy.

O’Daniel was an athlete, a teacher, a diplomat, and a lifetime military professional. He was short of stature (five foot six inches), an outspoken, doughty, gravel-voiced, combat leader of men through three major wars spanning a forty year career. His motto was, “sharpen your bayonet”. In his memoirs, Eisenhower called him “one of our outstanding combat soldiers”. The press likened him to General Patton for his strong personal opinions and his fearless demeanor, as well as his dash and daring in moving the Third Infantry Division across the European Theater of Operations.