Presidents’ Day is a time to honor the leaders of the United States, reflecting on their contributions and legacies. Originally established to commemorate George Washington’s birthday, it has evolved into a celebration of all U.S. presidents. Among these esteemed figures, a significant number have a distinguished background in military service. But just how many U.S. presidents have served in the military, and who are some of the most notable examples?
Throughout American history, military service has been a common thread in the lives of many presidents, shaping their leadership and worldview. From the nation’s founding to modern times, presidents have answered the call to duty, demonstrating courage and commitment on the battlefield before leading from the Oval Office. This article explores the remarkable U.s. Presidents Who Served In The Military, highlighting their service and its impact on their presidency.
George Washington: The Revolutionary General
George Washington – Continental Army General
Image: A distinguished portrait of George Washington in his Continental Army General uniform, highlighting his pivotal role as a military leader during the American Revolution.
No figure is more synonymous with the intersection of military leadership and the presidency than George Washington, the very father of the United States. His military career was not merely a chapter in his life; it was foundational to the nation’s birth.
Washington’s journey began in 1753 with the Virginia militia. Leading a contingent of 300 colonial soldiers, he ventured into present-day Pittsburgh, marking the initial clash of the French and Indian War. His early endeavors, though sometimes fraught with challenges, quickly established his reputation for resilience and command, leading to a swift ascent to the rank of brigade commander.
Despite resigning his commission in 1758, the burgeoning revolutionary fervor drew Washington back into the fold. By 1774, his commitment to the cause of independence was unwavering, and he took command of the Virginia volunteer militia. In June 1775, the Continental Congress unanimously elected him as General and Commander-in-Chief of all Continental forces, entrusting him with the monumental task of leading the fledgling nation’s army against the might of the British Empire.
For eight arduous years, General Washington navigated immense challenges – from supply shortages to troop morale – yet remarkably preserved the Continental Army. This feat alone is a testament to his extraordinary leadership. The U.S. Army Center of Military History aptly notes that “only a soldier endowed with extraordinary foresight, personal integrity and self-discipline could have provided the necessary leadership. The claim can be made that without Washington, the Revolution would not have succeeded.” His strategic acumen and unwavering resolve were instrumental in securing American independence.
Following the victorious conclusion of the Revolutionary War, Washington exemplified civic virtue by disbanding his army and returning to private life. However, his service to the nation was far from over. In 1787, he was called upon to preside over the Constitutional Convention, a pivotal gathering that shaped the framework of the U.S. government. This led directly to his unanimous election as the first President of the United States in 1789, cementing his legacy as both a military hero and the nation’s first Commander in Chief.
Dwight D. Eisenhower: Supreme Allied Commander in World War II
Dwight D. Eisenhower – Army General
Image: A formal portrait of Dwight D. Eisenhower in his U.S. Army five-star general uniform, highlighting his supreme command during World War II.
Among the seven U.S. presidents who bravely served in World War II, Dwight D. Eisenhower stands out as a figure of unparalleled military achievement. One of the select few to attain the rank of five-star general, his military career culminated in leading the Allied forces to victory in Europe.
Eisenhower’s military journey commenced with his graduation from West Point in 1915. During World War I, he served stateside, contributing his expertise to the burgeoning tank corps by training troops. However, it was in World War II that Eisenhower’s strategic brilliance truly shone. As the United States entered the global conflict, his reputation for military strategy was so highly regarded that he was appointed Commanding General of the U.S. Army in the European Theater of Operations.
Dwight D. Eisenhower with Paratroopers before D-Day
Image: General Dwight D. Eisenhower inspiring paratroopers with his iconic “Full victory – nothing else” speech in England, just before they boarded planes for the D-Day invasion of Normandy.
After orchestrating successful Allied landings in Sicily and Italy, Eisenhower’s leadership role expanded further as he was named Supreme Allied Commander in Europe. In this pivotal role, he bore the immense responsibility of planning and executing Operation Overlord, better known as D-Day. This amphibious assault on Normandy remains the largest land, air, and sea invasion in the annals of modern warfare, and Eisenhower’s meticulous planning and decisive command were crucial to its success, marking a turning point in the war.
Dwight D. Eisenhower in Naples Harbor, Italy
Image: General Eisenhower pictured aboard a British vessel in Naples Harbor, Italy in 1944, reflecting his leadership across different Allied fronts during World War II.
Eisenhower continued to guide the Allied forces towards ultimate victory. On May 7, 1945, in the wake of Adolf Hitler’s suicide, Eisenhower accepted the unconditional surrender of Germany, effectively ending World War II in Europe and solidifying his place in history as a military mastermind.
Dwight D. Eisenhower at Harvard University Ceremony
Image: General Eisenhower walking with dignitaries at Harvard University after receiving an honorary degree in 1946, recognizing his contributions to the war effort and his esteemed stature.
In the post-war era, Eisenhower briefly resigned from the Army, but his leadership was once again needed. In 1950, he returned to military service as Supreme Allied Commander of Europe to spearhead the buildup of forces for the newly formed North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Returning to the United States in 1952, he transitioned to politics, accepting the Republican presidential nomination and winning the election to become the 34th U.S. President. His two terms, lasting until 1961, were marked by the same strategic thinking and decisive leadership he displayed on the battlefield, shaping the Cold War era and domestic policy alike.
Ulysses S. Grant: Savior of the Union
Ulysses S. Grant – Army General
Image: A portrait of Ulysses S. Grant in his U.S. Army General uniform, highlighting his pivotal role in leading the Union Army to victory during the Civil War.
Ulysses S. Grant is indelibly etched in history as the military leader who preserved the Union during the tumultuous American Civil War. However, his military service began long before this defining conflict, shaping him into the general who would ultimately lead the North to victory.
Grant’s military education began at West Point, graduating in 1843. He saw combat in the Mexican-American War, a conflict that significantly expanded U.S. territory westward. Following this war, Grant resigned from the Army as a captain in 1854, briefly entering civilian life. However, the outbreak of the Civil War in 1861 called him back to service. He rejoined the military, becoming the Brigadier General of the 21st Illinois Volunteer Infantry.
Grant quickly distinguished himself in the early campaigns of the Civil War, leading his troops to a series of crucial Union victories in the Western Theater. His successes at Forts Henry and Donelson in 1862 were pivotal early wins for the Union, earning him the nickname “Unconditional Surrender” Grant and demonstrating his aggressive and determined military approach.
On March 17, 1864, President Abraham Lincoln appointed Grant as General-in-Chief of all Union armies. Grant implemented a strategy of relentless pressure on the Confederacy, coordinating multiple Union offensives across different theaters of the war. Despite facing heavy casualties, Grant’s unwavering focus on defeating the Confederate armies ultimately led to the fall of Richmond, the Confederate capital, and the Confederate surrender at Appomattox Court House in April 1865.
Three years after the war’s end, Grant was elected President of the United States, serving two terms from 1869 to 1877. His presidency focused on Reconstruction and stabilizing the nation after the war. In his later years, facing financial difficulties, Grant penned his personal memoirs, detailing his military career. Published shortly before his death, “Personal Memoirs of U. S. Grant” is widely considered a masterpiece of military autobiography and remains highly regarded for its insights into the Civil War and Grant’s leadership.
John F. Kennedy: PT Boat Hero in the Pacific
John F. Kennedy – President
Image: A formal portrait of President John F. Kennedy, capturing his youthful vigor and presidential demeanor.
John F. Kennedy’s military service in World War II, though relatively brief, was marked by extraordinary heroism and resilience, adding a layer of bravery to his already compelling persona. Before the war, Kennedy was a Harvard graduate and was continuing his studies at Stanford when the attack on Pearl Harbor galvanized him to enlist in the Navy. He received a commission in the Naval Reserve shortly before the U.S. entered World War II. At 24 years old, he was ready to serve.
In 1943, Kennedy was assigned command of Patrol Torpedo boat PT-109 in the Pacific theater. On the night of August 1, 1943, while on patrol, PT-109 was tragically struck and cut in half by a Japanese destroyer, which was unaware of the collision in the darkness. The impact threw Kennedy against the boat, but he quickly rallied to take charge of the situation.
John F. Kennedy aboard PT-109
Image: A smiling Lieutenant John F. Kennedy at the helm of PT-109 in the South Pacific, portraying his youthful leadership in a dangerous wartime environment.
Despite suffering injuries, Lieutenant Kennedy demonstrated exceptional courage and leadership in the aftermath of the PT-109 sinking. He spent hours in the water, ensuring the survival of his injured crew. Notably, he personally towed a badly burned crewmate to safety by holding onto a life jacket strap in his teeth while swimming.
John F. Kennedy with PT-109 Crew
Image: Lieutenant John F. Kennedy with his crew aboard PT-109, showcasing the camaraderie and teamwork within his unit during World War II.
Kennedy and his surviving crew members swam an incredible three miles to a small island. After days of being stranded, Kennedy and another crew member ventured to another island to seek help. They encountered native islanders, to whom Kennedy ingeniously conveyed a message for rescue carved onto a coconut shell, which was then delivered to a nearby PT boat base.
John F. Kennedy in Naval Uniform
Image: An official portrait of Lieutenant Junior Grade John F. Kennedy in his U.S. Navy dress uniform, representing his honorable service and wartime heroism.
For his extraordinary heroism and leadership following the PT-109 incident, Kennedy was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal, the highest non-combat decoration for heroism, and the Purple Heart. The details of the PT-109 incident remained largely classified until 1959, just two years before Kennedy successfully ran for president. His wartime service and bravery became a significant part of his public image, contributing to his appeal as a young, courageous leader ready to take on the challenges of the presidency.
George H.W. Bush: Youngest Navy Pilot in World War II
George H.W. Bush – President
Image: A portrait of President George H.W. Bush, representing his presidential service and distinguished career.
George H.W. Bush’s path to the presidency included a remarkable chapter of service as a naval aviator during World War II. The attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 deeply impacted the young Bush, who, at just 17, felt a strong call to serve his country. On his 18th birthday, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy with the ambition of becoming a pilot.
Within a year of enlisting, Bush earned his wings and was commissioned in the U.S. Naval Reserve, becoming one of the youngest naval aviators in the war. His youth did not diminish his commitment or courage as he was assigned to fly torpedo bombers.
George H.W. Bush in Flight Gear
Image: A young Lieutenant Junior Grade George H.W. Bush in his flight gear, highlighting his youthful determination and bravery as a naval aviator in World War II.
By the spring of 1944, Lieutenant Bush was actively engaged in combat in the Pacific theater. Flying a Grumman TBF Avenger, he participated in numerous air raids against Japanese installations. During a mission over Chichi Jima, his aircraft sustained heavy enemy fire after successfully dropping bombs on the target. Despite the damage, Bush managed to guide the plane away from the immediate target area before ordering his crew to bail out and then bailing out himself over the ocean.
George H.W. Bush in Avenger Cockpit
Image: Lieutenant George H.W. Bush in the cockpit of his Avenger aircraft during World War II, showcasing his role as a pilot and his commitment to his missions.
After hours of floating in an inflatable raft, Bush was miraculously rescued by the USS Finback, an American submarine. Demonstrating his dedication to his fellow servicemen, Bush remained on the submarine for a period, assisting in the rescue of other downed pilots. He then returned to flying combat missions, participating in operations over the Philippines before being reassigned to the United States to train new naval aviators. He was honorably discharged from the Navy when the war concluded.
George H.W. Bush on USS George H.W. Bush Aircraft Carrier
Image: Former President George H.W. Bush observing flight operations aboard the USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77), the aircraft carrier named in his honor, highlighting his enduring connection to naval aviation.
During his service, George H.W. Bush flew an impressive 58 combat missions and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for extraordinary heroism and achievement in aerial flight, along with three Air Medals and the Presidential Unit Citation. His courageous service and youthful entry into military aviation set the stage for a lifetime of public service, culminating in his presidency as the 41st Commander in Chief.
Theodore Roosevelt: The Rough Rider President
Theodore Roosevelt – Army Lieutenant Colonel
Image: A portrait of Theodore Roosevelt in his U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel uniform, commemorating his leadership of the Rough Riders during the Spanish-American War.
Theodore Roosevelt’s military service, though relatively short, was intensely impactful and greatly contributed to his image as a dynamic and courageous leader, famously embodied by his command of the “Rough Riders.” Roosevelt’s initial military experience was in the New York National Guard from 1882 to 1886. However, it was the Spanish-American War in 1898 that provided the stage for his celebrated military action.
When war broke out with Spain over Cuba’s independence, Roosevelt, then Assistant Secretary of the Navy, resigned his position to seek an Army commission. He successfully lobbied for a command and was instrumental in forming the 1st U.S. Volunteer Cavalry Regiment, which quickly became known as the “Rough Riders.” Composed of a diverse group of cowboys, ranchers, and adventurers, the Rough Riders, under Roosevelt’s charismatic leadership, became one of the most famous units of the Spanish-American War.
Roosevelt led the Rough Riders in Cuba, and their most celebrated action was the charge up San Juan Heights (Kettle Hill and San Juan Hill). Roosevelt’s personal courage and leadership during these charges were widely publicized and played a significant role in turning the tide of the war in America’s favor. His bravery under fire and his regiment’s success became legendary.
In recognition of his valor at San Juan Heights, Theodore Roosevelt was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor in 2001. This award officially acknowledged the bravery and leadership he displayed during the charge, solidifying his heroic image.
Elected president in 1901, Theodore Roosevelt brought his characteristic energy and leadership to the White House. His military experience and persona as a war hero were integral to his public image and political success. As president, Roosevelt was instrumental in modernizing the National Guard, drawing upon his own military background to strengthen and reform the organization, demonstrating a lasting impact of his military service on his presidency.
Zachary Taylor: Old Rough and Ready
Zachary Taylor – Army Major General
Image: A portrait of Zachary Taylor in his U.S. Army Major General uniform, commemorating his extensive and distinguished military career.
Zachary Taylor, known as “Old Rough and Ready,” embodied the image of a career soldier who rose to the presidency. His military service spanned over four decades, shaping his life and ultimately propelling him to the nation’s highest office.
Taylor’s military career began in 1808 when he joined the Army. He saw action in the Northwest Territory during the War of 1812, gaining early experience in military campaigns. For the next three decades, Taylor served at various garrison posts and participated in conflicts such as the Black Hawk War and the Second Seminole War, steadily climbing the ranks and building a reputation as a capable and dependable commander.
By the mid-1840s, Taylor’s military career reached a new height when he was placed in command of U.S. troops along the Rio Grande, in the lead up to the Mexican-American War. During this war, Taylor achieved significant victories, including the Battle of Palo Alto and the Battle of Buena Vista. His battlefield successes and his image as a rugged, no-nonsense general made him a popular figure in the United States.
Taylor retired from the military in 1847, his reputation as a war hero firmly established. Just a year later, in 1848, he was elected as the 12th President of the United States. His presidency, however, was tragically cut short. He died of gastroenteritis on July 9, 1850, after serving only 16 months in office. Despite his brief time as president, Taylor’s career path from a distinguished military leader to the presidency underscores the significant role military service has played in shaping American leadership.
Andrew Jackson: Hero of New Orleans
Andrew Jackson – Army General
Image: A portrait of Andrew Jackson in his U.S. Army General uniform, highlighting his military achievements and leadership.
Andrew Jackson’s military career was formative, shaping his image as a strong, decisive leader and contributing significantly to his political success. His early military experience began during the Revolutionary War when, at the young age of 13, he served as a courier.
Jackson’s military career truly took off during the War of 1812. As a Major General in the U.S. Army, he achieved a decisive victory at the Battle of New Orleans in 1815. This victory, though technically occurring after the Treaty of Ghent had been signed to end the war, was hugely significant for American morale and solidified Jackson’s status as a national hero. His leadership at New Orleans, where his forces decisively defeated a larger British army, made him a household name and earned him the moniker “Hero of New Orleans.”
Following the War of 1812, Jackson continued his military service, commanding forces against Seminole natives in the First Seminole War. His actions in Florida, though controversial, further enhanced his reputation for being a forceful and effective military commander.
Jackson’s military successes were instrumental in propelling him into the political arena. His image as a military hero resonated deeply with the American public, contributing to his election as the 7th President of the United States in 1828. He served two terms, from 1829 to 1837. Jackson’s presidency was marked by a strong executive style, often attributed to his military background and decisive leadership, demonstrating how military service can profoundly influence a president’s approach to governance.
Jimmy Carter: Nuclear Submarine Officer
Jimmy Carter – President
Image: A portrait of President Jimmy Carter, reflecting his presidential years and his prior service in the U.S. Navy.
Jimmy Carter’s path to the presidency included a distinctive chapter of service in the U.S. Navy’s submarine program, setting him apart from many other presidents with military backgrounds. Carter graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1946, embarking on a naval career that would deeply influence his life and leadership style.
After graduating from Annapolis, Carter served on two battleships and two submarines. Notably, he served on the USS K-1, the first submarine constructed after World War II. He was stationed on the K-1 during the first half of the Korean War, gaining valuable experience in submarine operations during a period of international tension.
Jimmy Carter as Naval Academy Midshipman
Image: A young Naval Academy Midshipman James Earl Carter in uniform, representing the beginning of his naval career and his commitment to service.
Carter’s naval career took a significant turn when he was selected for temporary duty with the Naval Reactors Branch of the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission, then headed by Captain Hyman G. Rickover, a pioneer of naval nuclear propulsion. Carter’s assignment was to contribute to the design and development of nuclear propulsion plants for naval vessels. This highly technical and demanding role showcased his intelligence and dedication to cutting-edge technology within the military.
Jimmy Carter in Submarine Control Room
Image: Lieutenant Jimmy Carter in the control room of the USS K-1 submarine, observing submariners at work, highlighting his active service in submarine operations.
Tragically, Carter’s father passed away in 1953, leading him to resign his commission and return home to Georgia to manage the family peanut farm. He was honorably discharged from the Navy in 1953, having achieved the rank of Lieutenant. Decades later, Carter entered politics, eventually becoming the 39th President of the United States, serving from 1977 to 1981. His naval service, particularly his involvement in the nuclear submarine program, instilled in him a disciplined, analytical approach and a deep understanding of complex systems, qualities that influenced his presidency.
Jimmy Carter at George H.W. Bush Funeral
Image: Former President Jimmy Carter greeting guests at President George H.W. Bush’s funeral in 2018, representing his continued public service and respect for fellow leaders, including those with military backgrounds.
In conclusion, the list of U.S. presidents who served in the military is a testament to the long-standing tradition of military service in American leadership. From the Revolutionary War to World War II and beyond, these presidents brought their military experiences to bear on their presidencies, shaping their approaches to leadership, foreign policy, and domestic challenges. Their service underscores the deep connection between military experience and the highest office in the United States, highlighting the values of duty, courage, and leadership that are often forged in military service.
