Follett Bradley

Follett Bradley was an American career soldier, military officer, and Major General.

Biography

Bradley was born in Omaha, Nebraska, on 12 February 1890. He attended Highland Park High School in Highland Park, Illinois.
He died on 4 August 1952 in Long Island, New York, and was buried with full military honours at the Arlington National Cemetery.

Career

He graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1910. Bradley served in the Navy until 1912 when he transferred to the US Army.

Military career

Bradley served in a number of commanding roles and responsibilities, including Commander of the 3rd Bombardment Wing and III Bombardment Command. From 1941 to 1942, he was the Commanding General of First Air Force. From 1943 onwards, he served at the Headquarters of U.S. Army Air Force.
He succeeded Brig. Gen. Arnold N. Krogstad.

Business career

He played a key role in the early history of the IBM mainframe company. He provided valuable mentorship and guidance to the son of the founder of IBM, Thomas J. Watson Jr., and played a key role in his business successes.

Dates of ranks

The progression of his ranks and promotions is provided below:
1935-08-01 Lieutenant-Colonel
1936-08-26 Colonel
1940-10-01 Brigadier-General
1940-12-01 Colonel
1942-02-25 Major-General
1944-04-30 Major-General

Awards and honours

He was cited for gallantry and received the Silver Star and the French Croix de Guerre with palms.
He also received the Mexican Border Service Medal and the Distinguished Service Medal.