Patton leaves France for New York City

On 02/03/1919, Lieutenant Colonel George S. Patton Jr. departed France for New York City, marking the conclusion of his first tour of duty in Europe during World War I. Patton had served with the American Expeditionary Forces as a pioneer of U.S. tank operations, initially organizing training for the newly formed Tank Corps before leading combat units in 1918. He commanded the 1st Provisional Tank Brigade during the St. Mihiel offensive in September 1918 and was wounded while directing operations near Cheppy during the Meuse Argonne offensive later that month. Following the Armistice of 11/11/1918, Patton remained in France during the occupation and administrative period as American forces prepared for demobilization. On 02/03/1919, he departed for the United States, arriving in New York City and transitioning back to postwar duties. His return closed a period that had begun when he sailed for Europe in 1917 and included his involvement in the development and combat employment of American armored forces. The experience influenced his continued advocacy for mechanized mobility during the interwar years.