This extraordinary book for young adults, presents the early exploits of important generals in American history-pivotal moments in their young careers that occurred before fame illuminated their lives. Washington, Lee, Grant, Pershing, MacArthur, Eisenhower, and Patton are names recognized by all. They are among a select group of American military leaders that achieved unparalleled levels of greatness. At the pinnacle of their careers, many of these leaders possessed the power to change the course of the world's history. First Command tells what it was like for these and other men-and more recently, women-at the beginning of their careers, when the path before them held little promise and contained many obstacles.