Before becoming President, what military rank did Eisenhower hold during World War II?

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Eisenhower held the rank of General during World War II, which is significant because it reflects his high level of responsibility and leadership within the U.S. military during a pivotal time in history. As the Supreme Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Forces in Europe, he played a crucial role in planning and executing major military operations, including the D-Day invasion of Normandy. This rank is notable as it denotes a commanding officer who oversees substantial military operations and is responsible for strategic decisions affecting large numbers of troops.

Understanding Eisenhower's military background is essential because it added to his credentials when he later served as President, as he was able to draw on his extensive experience in military strategy and leadership. The other ranks listed—Colonel, Major, and Sergeant—denote lower levels of responsibility and do not capture the extensive authority and influence he had during the war.