Image for General William C. Westmoreland

General William C. Westmoreland

General William C. Westmoreland was a U.S. military leader who served as the commander of American forces in Vietnam from 1964 to 1968. He played a key role in coordinating the U.S. military effort during the Vietnam War, focusing on strategies to combat the North Vietnamese and Viet Cong. Known for his emphasis on "attrition" warfare—aiming to wear down the enemy—his decisions were often controversial, reflecting the complex challenges of the war. Westmoreland's leadership significantly influenced U.S. military policy in Vietnam, making him a prominent figure in American military history.