As Commander in Chief of Operation Desert Storm, General H. Norman Schwarzkopf was in charge of the United States, British and French forces that made up the United Nations Central Command during the Persian Gulf war.

He coordinated the efforts of all Allied forces from Saudi Arabia, and his tactics led to the early termination of the conflict and restoration of the lawful government of Kuwait, with minimal loss of life by those under his command.

Schwarzkopf was a member of the varsity wrestling team at the United States Military Academy under Hall of Fame coach LeRoy Alitz. During his senior year at West Point, Schwarzkopf served as coach of the undefeated plebe, or freshman, team.

During his years of service, he spent two combat tours in the Republic of Vietnam, commanded two infantry brigades and was deputy commander of the Joint Task Force in the Grenada rescue operation. He has vast experience in planning, policy and personnel management for the Department of the Army.

The general's many honors include the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, the Army Distinguished Service Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, and Distinguished Service Medals from the Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard.

He has earned three Silver Stars, three Bronze Stars, and two Purple Hearts, along with the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Legion of Merit. He has received military decorations from eight foreign countries.