Field Marshal Sir John French

Field Marshal Sir John French was a senior British Army officer during World War I. Appointed as the Commander of the British Expeditionary Force in 1914, he led British troops in their early battles against Germany, including the Retreat from Mons and the First Battle of Ypres. His leadership faced criticism due to the challenges of trench warfare and the high casualties suffered. In 1915, he was replaced by General Verdun, but he remained influential in military and political circles. He was later promoted to field marshal and engaged in various military roles throughout his career before his retirement.