The collaboration between General George C. Marshall and General Dwight D. Eisenhower demonstrated decisive leadership from both men during a critical phase of World War II in April 1945. Their relationship was rooted in shared mentorship under General Fox Connor, who significantly influenced both men. Eisenhower’s appointment to War Plans in 1941 under General Marshall was based on his experience in the Philippines and prior work with General MacArthur.
Eisenhower quickly rose through the ranks with key leadership roles in the North Africa campaign, Sicily, and the Normandy invasion. Marshall’s trust in Eisenhower reflected his leadership style–choosing capable officers and empowering them to act independently while providing full support.
In spring 1945, as Allied victory in Europe seemed imminent, a strategic decision had to be made: whether to prioritize a direct drive to Berlin or focus on southern Germany to prevent the establishment of a German redoubt. Eisenhower favored the latter, choosing to move toward Leipzig and then southward. On March 28, he communicated these plans directly to Stalin and informed Marshall and Montgomery, sparking concern from the British leadership.
Churchill and the British Chiefs of Staff strongly objected. They feared losing control over the 9th US Army, felt British forces were being sidelined, and criticized Eisenhower for directly contacting Stalin without first consulting Allied political leadership. Churchill also argued that taking Berlin was politically critical to preventing future German revisionism. Eisenhower’s reasoning was that the taking of Berlin was not a worthwhile military objective, that he could not get there before the Russians in any event, and that by turning his forces to Berlin he would give the Germans breathing space to create a defensive southern redoubt that would prolong the war.
Marshall responded to the British on March 30. He supported Eisenhower’s strategy as sound and emphasized that the field commander was best suited to judge military operations. Marshall also backed Eisenhower’s right to communicate directly with Stalin, stating that undermining his leadership would be inappropriate and detrimental to Eisenhower’s ability to command.
A clerical error had unintentionally minimized Montgomery’s assigned role, which Eisenhower clarified to Churchill once he realized there had been an error made. Nevertheless, Eisenhower remained firm in avoiding a costly urban battle in Berlin, especially as the city would fall within the Soviet post-war occupation zone. Any U.S. effort to take Berlin would ultimately be symbolic and costly in lives, and the Russians were already much closer.
This exchange highlights the leadership strength and unity between Marshall and Eisenhower. Under immense pressure, Marshall upheld his subordinate’s decisions quickly and unequivocally, demonstrating decisive leadership and mutual trust. Eisenhower’s strategic focus and Marshall’s steadfast support were instrumental in concluding the war in Europe swiftly and effectively.
The partnership between Marshall and Eisenhower exemplified clear strategic thinking, disciplined leadership, and effective delegation. Their actions ensured that military priorities remained grounded in practical outcomes, helping to bring World War II in Europe to a decisive end.
Dr. Robert Holcomb works at the Institute for Defense Analyses, is the author of Stone Tapestry, a book about 165 people buried in the West Point cemetery and is a docent at the George C. Marshall International Center. The Eisenhower Society is dedicated to promoting the memory and legacy of leadership of Dwight D. Eisenhower through educational programs, scholarships, grants, and special events. Learn more at dwightdeisenhowersociety.org.
The Dwight D. Eisenhower Society is dedicated to promoting the memory and legacy of leadership of Dwight D. Eisenhower through educational programs, scholarships, grants, and special events.
Photo Caption: General George C. Marshall and General Dwight D. Eisenhower