Columbia News

Senator Eric Schmitt shared a series of posts on November 11, 2025, highlighting the military career and leadership principles of General John J. Pershing.

In his first post, Schmitt recounted the origin of Pershing's nickname: "His nickname 'Black Jack' began when he commanded the 10th Cavalry—the famed African American 'Buffalo Soldiers.' It is a nickname that followed him the rest of his storied career." (November 11, 2025).

The senator continued by referencing Pershing's role in early twentieth-century military campaigns: "In 1916, President Wilson sent Pershing into Mexico to capture Pancho Villa after cross-border raids. The 'Punitive Expedition' was grueling—thousands of miles, rough terrain, and no success capturing Villa—but it trained U.S. forces for modern war." (November 11, 2025). The Punitive Expedition marked an important period in U.S. military history as it prepared troops for future conflicts.

In his final post, Schmitt emphasized Pershing's commitment to maintaining American command during World War I: "Pershing insisted American troops fight under U.S. command, not folded into British or French units. He was a proponent of American identity: 'We came American. We shall remain American and go into battle with Old Glory over our heads. I will not parcel out American boys.'" (November 11, 2025).

General John J. Pershing played a significant role in shaping modern U.S. military doctrine. As commander of the American Expeditionary Forces during World War I, he advocated for independent American operations rather than integrating U.S. troops into Allied units—a stance that influenced future military policy.

Senator Eric Schmitt represents Missouri in the United States Senate and frequently shares historical reflections related to military service and leadership.