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Schwarzkopf is best known to most Americans as the commander who orchestrated and led the successful invasion of Kuwait in 1991 that pushed then-Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein back across the border in a sweeping and surprising military move that continues to be talked about today.

He was, however, more than that.

The son of a military officer, Schwarzkopf, following his graduation from West Point, volunteered for Vietnam in 1966 and served two tours, one as a battalion commander.

He became known as "Stormin' Norman," a tag that he did not like, because of his volatile temper. Stories of his exploits in Vietnam are numerous, including his calm and bravery in leading his men out of a mine field.

He went on to receive three Silver Stars for valor - including one for saving those troops from the minefield - plus a Bronze Star, a Purple Heart and three Distinguished Service Medals. He later was honored with decorations from France, Britain, Belgium, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Bahrain. He was even knighted by Queen Elizabeth II.

One of Schwarzkopf's more honorable decisions was calling off the air strikes along the road from Kuwait to Iraq, known as the "Highway of Death." It was an act of humanity seldom seen during war. The enemy was helpless, bodies and vehicles littered the road. The general, knowing that Saddam's army was thoroughly defeated, granted mercy. It was a proud moment for Schwarzkopf and the United States.

Schwarzkopf wowed the American public and the press with his no-nonsense, to-the-point press briefings during "Desert Storm." His presence on the podium was commanding, his information detailed and his delivery often humorous.

In one press conference he was asked if Saddam was a good military commander. He rattled off a litany of military strategies, all of which Saddam obviously had failed at, and then declared that other than that Saddam was a pretty good commander.

In the latter stages of the war, he informed the press that any Iraqi aircraft that took off was in the process of running away.

Schwarzkopf might have had disagreements with some of his superiors, including then-President George H.W. Bush, but he remained the loyal soldier. He became affectionately known to his troops as "The Bear," a moniker he embraced.

Link:
'The Bear:' Schwarzkopf a true American hero