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Maj. Gen. Leonard Wood (1860-1927)- He led the 1st Regiment of the U.S. Cavalry Volunteers (popularly known as the "Rough Riders") in the Spanish-American War. He served as U.S. Army Chief of Staff from 1910 to 1914, before being assigned to the 89th Division. Being a vociferous Republican, he made frequent forays into politics (never a wise decision for a career military person, especially when he's advocating policies contrary to those of the President.) He was not known for keeping his opinions to himself, and was constantly in contention with the Wilson administration on war policy. Although the general was popular with the American public, President Wilson decided, since Wood had not been supportive of the administration and was not inclined to dutifully carry out orders of higher command without question, he should not be on the military front. In mid-1918, when the 89th was shipped, he was transferred to Camp Funston, Kansas to command the 10th Division until deactivation. He later made an unsuccessful bid for the Republican presidential nomination in 1920.(photo courtesy Marv Cruzan ) |