Mark W. Clark, born on January 1, 1896, in New York, was destined for a life of military service. His father, William J. Clark, was a career army officer, and Mark followed in his footsteps by attending the United States Military Academy at West Point. He graduated in 1917, shortly before America's entry into World War I.
During World War I, Clark served as a company commander and saw firsthand the horrors of war. He was wounded by an exploding artillery shell, an experience that would shape his future military career.
After World War I, Clark continued to rise through the ranks of the US Army. He attended the Command and General Staff School at Fort Leavenworth and the Army War College in Washington, DC. He also served as an instructor at West Point, honing his leadership skills.
When World War II broke out, Clark was given command of the 90th Infantry Division. He led the division through some of the bloodiest battles of the war, including the Battle of the Bulge and the crossing of the Rhine River. His strategic brilliance and fearless leadership earned him a promotion to three-star general.
Clark's military career did not end with World War II. He was called back to service during the Korean War, where he once again demonstrated his skill on the battlefield. His heroic actions in Korea caught the attention of TIME magazine, which featured him on their cover.
Despite his demanding military career, Clark always made time for his family. His son, William Doran Clark, followed in his father's footsteps and reached the rank of Army Major.
Mark W. Clark is remembered as a war hero and a dedicated military leader. His contributions to both World War II and the Korean War were immeasurable, and his name will forever be associated with courage and valor. Winston Churchill himself praised Clark for his wartime command of troops, cementing his place in history as a true hero.
Mark W. Clark passed away on April 17, 1984, leaving behind a legacy of service and sacrifice that will never be forgotten.