Willard Pearson

Willard Pearson (July 4, 1915 – March 6, 1996) was a United States Army Lieutenant General who served as commander of the 1st Brigade, 101st Airborne Division during the Vietnam War and later as commander of V Corps.

Early life and education

Pearson was born on July 4, 1915, and he was a native of West Elizabeth, Pennsylvania. Pearson was a graduate of George Washington University.

Military service Vietnam War

In January 1966 BG Pearson took command of the 1st Brigade, 101st Airborne Division. During his time in command of the 1st Brigade he advocated the use of semi-guerilla tactics of night operations and long range reconnaissance patrols, which were adopted by his subordinate Maj. David Hackworth who established Tiger Force. These tactics involved "to probe as far into enemy territory as possible, make contact, then reinforce by helicopter." Pearson was described as being "regarded with a mixture of respect and astonishment." 1973 Pearson was bestowed with the Commander's cross of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany.