Bernard Law Montgomery

Date of Birth: November 17, 1887

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Date of Death: March 24, 1976

Biography

Field Marshal Bernard Law Montgomery, 1st Viscount Montgomery of Alamein, popularly known as “Monty,” was one of the most prominent and successful British Army commanders during World War II. Born on November 17, 1887, in London, England, Montgomery was the fourth of nine children. His early education took place at St. Paul’s School and the Royal Military College, Sandhurst. He was commissioned into the Royal Warwickshire Regiment in 1908. Montgomery’s military career began in earnest during World War I, where he saw action on the Western Front. He was gravely wounded in 1914 but returned to duty after recovering. Between the wars, he held various staff and command positions, honing his strategic and tactical skills. Montgomery’s fame soared during World War II, particularly for his leadership in the North African campaign. Appointed commander of the Eighth Army in August 1942, he masterminded the British victory at the Second Battle of El Alamein, turning the tide against the Axis forces. He later played key roles in the invasions of Italy and Normandy, and his leadership was instrumental in the eventual Allied victory in Europe. After the war, Montgomery served as Chief of the Imperial General Staff and was later appointed Deputy Supreme Commander of NATO. He was elevated to the peerage as Viscount Montgomery of Alamein in 1946. He passed away on March 24, 1976, in Alton, Hampshire, England.

5 Interesting Facts about Bernard Law Montgomery

1. Montgomery was known for his distinctive black beret, which became a symbol of his leadership.

2. He was nicknamed “The Spartan General” for his austere lifestyle and strict discipline.

3. Montgomery wrote several books, including his memoirs and works on military strategy.

4. He was a teetotaler and non-smoker, unusual for a man of his time and position.

5. Montgomery had a lifelong rivalry with American General George S. Patton, which was both personal and professional.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Bernard Law Montgomery

1. “In my Army, every soldier must care for his own weapons and equipment. He must have a pride in them, and he must insist on getting them right.”

2. “Decisions! They are the essence of leadership.”

3. “The harder the fighting and the longer the war, the more the infantry, and in fact all the arms, lean on the gunners.”

4. “Rule 1, on page 1 of the book of war, is: ‘Do not march on Moscow.’”

5. “If we lose the war in the air, we lose the war and we lose it quickly.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the height of his career, Montgomery’s net worth was estimated to be around £5 million, primarily derived from his military salary, book royalties, and various honors and awards.

Children

Bernard Law Montgomery had one son, David Montgomery, 2nd Viscount Montgomery of Alamein, born on August 18, 1928. David Montgomery followed a career in business and public service, continuing his father’s legacy.