13 Facts About Hanford MacNider

Lieutenant General Hanford MacNider was a senior officer of the United States Army who fought in both world wars.

Hanford MacNider served as a diplomat, the Assistant Secretary of War of the United States from 1925 to 1928 and the National Commander of the American Legion from 1921 to 1922.

Hanford MacNider attended Milton Academy and subsequently Harvard University, where he graduated in 1911 before returning to Iowa.

For extraordinary heroism in the battle, Hanford MacNider was decorated with two Distinguished Service Cross, three Silver Stars, Italian War Merit Cross, French Legion d'honneur, and French Croix de Guerre with Palm.

Hanford MacNider was Commander of the American Legion Department of Iowa, from 1920 to 1921, before being elevated to the office of National Commander, serving from 1921 to 1922.

Hanford MacNider was considered a possible Republican candidate in the 1928 United States presidential election, but after the death of his father, MacNider returned to Iowa to handle the family's business affairs which thrived despite the Depression.

Hanford MacNider turned down a cabinet position offered by President Dwight Eisenhower.

Hanford MacNider earned the respect and love of the men of the 158th by his courage and great battlefield leadership, this has led to an almost mythical reputation in the regiment even today.

Hanford MacNider was eventually promoted to brigadier general in the United States Army, and then major general until his retirement in 1951.

Hanford MacNider is one of only four individuals to be promoted to lieutenant general after retirement from the army.

Today Hanford MacNider is considered one of Iowa's greatest war heroes, the 158th RCT wartime leader, and an effective politician during the inter-war years.

Hanford MacNider is one of a very few individuals to be awarded three Distinguished Service Crosses.

Hanford MacNider received during his military career many decorations and awards for heroism and distinguished service.