Countless books and articles have been written about leaders who have made decisions that have had significant effects on our country and the world. Leaders in the military, business, and sports have all had a crucial impact on the way we live our lives. Their legacy lives on by giving others the inspiration and motivation to become great leaders. One of the most influential and beloved leaders during World War II (WWII) and the Korean War was General Matthew Bunker Ridgway. Ridgway was a man who made countless sacrifices in order to avoid future troublesome conditions. In 1928, he considered joining the Army pentathlon team to compete in the Summer Olympics in Amsterdam, but decided it was more important to prepare himself to become a better leader. “I could not reject such a brilliant opportunity to prepare myself for whatever military-diplomatic role the future might offer,” according to Patterson (2006). At the start of World War II, Ridgway was a brigadier general in command of the newly developed army. , 82nd Airborne Division. He performed a combat jump, jumping from a plane by parachute, with his troops in combat on June 6, 1944, which happened to be in Normandy according to Patterson (2006). Subsequently, he received his second Distinguished Service Cross for his actions. . According to Headquarters U.S. First Army (1944), the citation states that "Major General Ridgway parachuted about 02:00 before dawn on 'D' Day and landed approximately 3/4 mile north- is from *****, France, to lead his airborne division's parachute assault on the slope. Throughout D-Day, he visited all points of the then-surrounded area to assess the opposition and encourage his men. He entered the front of each active sector without thinking of the personal danger he was running. He was continually exposed to small arms fire, mortars and artillery; for by his presence and words of encouragement he greatly assisted and personally directed the operations of one of his battalions in the important task of securing the bridgehead across the river ** ***, which required a frontal assault against a strongly entrenched enemy. positions. His personal bravery and heroism were decisive factors in the success of his unit in France. The gallant leadership, personal bravery, and zealous dedication of Major General Ridgway exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 82nd Airborne Division, and the United States Army..