Curtis LeMay vs Jean Lannes

LeMay took command of the 305th Bombardment Group in England in 1942. He implemented rigorous training and formation tactics that reduced bomber losses to German fighters, establishing his reputation as an innovative and demanding commander in the Eighth Air Force.

On March 9-10, 1945, LeMay ordered 334 B-29 bombers to conduct a low-altitude incendiary raid on Tokyo. The attack destroyed 16 square miles of the city, killed an estimated 100,000 civilians, and burned out over one million residents, marking a shift to area bombing of Japanese cities.

LeMay was appointed commander of the Strategic Air Command (SAC) in October 1948. He transformed SAC from a poorly organized force into a highly efficient nuclear deterrent, instituting rigorous training, 24-hour alert status, and a professional culture that defined Cold War air power.

LeMay served as Chief of Staff of the U.S. Air Force from June 1961 to February 1965. He advocated for expanded bombing campaigns in the Vietnam War, including the bombing of North Vietnam, and clashed with civilian leadership over strategy, particularly during the Cuban Missile Crisis.

LeMay was the vice presidential running mate for American Independent Party candidate George Wallace in the 1968 presidential election. His controversial suggestion that nuclear weapons could be used in Vietnam damaged the campaign, which ultimately won 13.5% of the popular vote.

Lannes commanded a division that defeated an Austrian force at Montebello. His aggressive attack routed the Austrians, capturing 2,000 prisoners. This victory cleared the way for Napoleon's advance to the Battle of Marengo.

Lannes commanded the French left wing, holding the Pratzen Heights against Russian attacks. His corps pinned down the Russian right, allowing Napoleon to crush the center. This victory was a masterpiece of tactical deception and sealed the fate of the Third Coalition.

Lannes' corps led the French assault on the Prussian center at Jena. His troops stormed the heights and routed the Prussian army. This victory, combined with Davout's at Auerstedt, led to the complete collapse of Prussia within weeks.

Lannes took command of the French siege of Saragossa after his predecessor was killed. He used systematic bombardment and house-to-house fighting to capture the city after two months. The siege was one of the bloodiest of the Peninsular War, with heavy civilian casualties.

Lannes commanded the French center, holding the village of Essling against Austrian attacks. He was mortally wounded by a cannonball while rallying his troops. His death was a severe blow to Napoleon, who lost his closest friend and one of his best marshals.