Fay Brink Prickett

Fay Brink Prickett (April 29, 1893 - December 18, 1982) was a career officer in the United States Army. A veteran of the Pancho Villa Expedition, World War I, and World War II, he was most notable for his Second World War command of the 75th Infantry Division, and his post-war command of the 10th Armored Division, 4th Armored Division, and 1st Constabulary Brigade. He attained the rank of major general, and his awards included the Legion of Merit with Oak leaf cluster and Bronze Star Medal.

Early life Prickett was born in Hutchinson, Kansas on April 29, 1893, the son of Darius Prickett, a carpenter, and Rosa Lee ( Dickerson) Prickett. He was raised and educated in Hutchinson, and attended Hutchinson High School. In high school, Prickett was known for his athletic prowess, and was a member of the basketball, football, and track and field teams. In 1911, he was elected president of the junior class.

At age 14, Prickett joined the Kansas Army National Guard as the bugler for Company E, 2nd Kansas Infantry Regiment. He served for four years and during training exercises was frequently called upon to serve as the regimental commander's mounted trumpeter. Prickett received his commission as a second lieutenant and was assigned to the 10th Cavalry Regiment. The Army prioritized polo playing in the 1920s and 1920s, believing that the game enabled officers to learn to make quick decisions under stress.

In 1929, he completed the course at the United States Army Command and General Staff College.

Post-World War II After the war, Prickett remained in Europe, where he led in succession the 10th Armored Division, 4th Armored Division, and 1st Constabulary Brigade. His terminal assignment was deputy inspector general of the U.S. Army, which he held until retiring in April 1953.

Retirement and death In retirement, Prickett resided in Alexandria, Virginia. He was buried at Arlington National Cemetery. In addition, his World War II service was recognized with award of the French Legion of Honor and Croix de Guerre with palm.

Dates of promotion Prickett's effective dates of promotion were:

Second lieutenant, June 14, 1912 First lieutenant, July 1, 1916 Captain, May 19, 1917 Major (temporary), July 3, 1918 Captain, February 3, 1920 Major (temporary), May 9, 1921 Captain, November 4, 1922 Major, December 28, 1926 Lieutenant colonel, September 1, 1937 Colonel (temporary), June 26, 1941 Brigadier general (temporary), March 12, 1942 Major general (temporary), January 14, 1944 Brigadier general (temporary), July 1, 1946 Major general (retired), April 30, 1953