Willard Pearson

Willard Pearson (July 4, 1915 – March 6, 1996) was a United States Army Lieutenant General who served as commander of the 1st Brigade, 101st Airborne Division during the Vietnam War and later as commander of V Corps.

Willard Pearson
BG Pearson briefs troops before Operation Eagle Bait, 1966
Born	(1915-07-04)July 4, 1915
Died	March 6, 1996 (1996-03-07) (aged 80)
Allegiance	United States of America
Branch	United States Army
Years of service	1938–1973
Rank	Lieutenant General
Commands	1st Brigade, 101st Airborne Division V Corps
Battles / wars	World War II Vietnam War
Awards	Distinguished Service Medal Silver Star

Early life and education

Pearson was born on July 4, 1915, and he was a native of West Elizabeth, Pennsylvania.^[1] Pearson was a graduate of George Washington University.^[2]

Military service

Vietnam War

In January 1966 BG Pearson took command of the 1st Brigade, 101st Airborne Division.^[3] During his time in command of the 1st Brigade he advocated the use of semi-guerilla tactics of night operations and long range reconnaissance patrols, which were adopted by his subordinate Maj. David Hackworth who established Tiger Force.^[4] These tactics involved "to probe as far into enemy territory as possible, make contact, then reinforce by helicopter."^[5] Pearson was described as being "regarded with a mixture of respect and astonishment."^[5]

Post Vietnam

He served as commander of V Corps from 14 February 1971 to 31 May 1973 when he retired from the Army.

Later life

He served as superintendent of the Valley Forge Military Academy and College from 1973 to 1985.

Personal life

Pearson was married to Reba E Barton until his death.^[6] 1973 Pearson was bestowed with the Commander's cross of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany.