Whether scaling the seemingly insurmountable cliffs of Pointe du Hoc with his first-wave assault troops during the Normandy invasion, restoring integrity to the Texas Land Office, or overseeing transitions in an academic institution with hallowed traditions during a time of contentious cultural change, James Earl Rudder (1910-1970) forged a legacy of wartime gallantry and peacetime leadership that commands continuing respect. This book pays tribute to a man who exemplified leadership, vision and courage.

The early years -- Eden, Texas, 1910-1927 -- Tarleton College, 1927-1930 -- Texas A&M College, 1930-1932 -- Coaching years, 1933-1941 -- The war -- Stateside, 1941-1943 -- Britain, 1943-1944 -- Pointe du Hoc, June 6-8, 1944 -- Normandy respite, 1944 -- Brittany, 1944 -- Belgian interlude, 1944 -- Huertgen Forest, 1944 -- Battle of the Bulge, 1944 -- Colmar Pocket, 1945 -- End of the war, 1945 -- Public servant -- Rise to prominence, 1946-1954 -- Land Office Commissioner, 1955-1958 -- Presidential years, 1958-1970.