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Mark ClarkAmerican General (1945).
Date of Birth: 01.05.1896
Country:  USA |
Content:
Mark Wayne Clark
Early Life and EducationMark Wayne Clark was born on May 1, 1896, in Madison Barracks, New York, to a military family. He attended the United States Military Academy at West Point, graduating in 1917. He later earned degrees from the Command and General Staff College and the Army War College.
World War I and Interwar Years
During World War I, Clark served in the 11th Infantry Regiment of the 5th Division on the Western Front. He was severely wounded in action and later served as an instructor at the Army's Officers' School.
World War II
In April 1941, Clark was appointed Chief of Staff of the Army Ground Forces. He worked with General Dwight Eisenhower in planning Operation Torch, the invasion of North Africa. In 1942, he became commander of the II Corps and later the commanding general of U.S. forces in Europe.
Clark played a key role in preparing for the Allied landings in Africa. He negotiated with the French colonial authorities in Algeria to ensure their cooperation and arranged for General Henri Giraud to join the Allies. After the landings, he signed an armistice with Admiral Jean Darlan.
From January 1943, Clark commanded the U.S. Fifth Army in Italy. He led the successful landings at Salerno (Operation Avalanche), but his forces suffered heavy casualties. He later played a role in the breakout of the Gustav Line and the capture of Rome.
Post-World War II
In December 1944, Clark became commander of the 15th Army Group, overseeing all Allied forces in Italy. He oversaw the final victory in Italy and the surrender of German forces in April 1945. He subsequently commanded the U.S. occupation forces in Austria.
Korean War
In April 1952, Clark replaced General Douglas MacArthur as commander of United Nations forces in Korea. He attempted to break the stalemate in the Korean War, but without success. He retired in October 1953.
Later Life
After his military career, Clark served as president of The Citadel military college in South Carolina. He authored two memoirs: "Calculated Risk" (1950) and "From the Danube to the Yalu" (1954). He died in New York City on April 17, 1984.
