Leo Boyle facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Leo M. Boyle
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Major General Leo M. Boyle
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| Born | July 20, 1899 |
| Died | May 3, 1969 (aged 69) |
| Allegiance |  United States |
| Service/ |
United States Army United States Army National Guard |
| Years of service | 1916-1969 |
| Rank |  Major General |
| Commands held |
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| Battles/wars | Pancho Villa Expedition World War I |
| Awards | Silver Star |
Major General Leo Martin Boyle (born July 20, 1899 – died May 3, 1969) was an important officer in the United States Army and the Illinois National Guard. He was one of the longest-serving Adjutants General of Illinois. This means he was in charge of the Illinois National Guard from 1940 until he passed away in 1969.
As the Adjutant General, he was responsible for leading and organizing the Illinois National Guard. This included using them for both state and national duties.
Leo Boyle's Military Journey
Leo Boyle joined the US Army and the Illinois National Guard in 1916 when he was just seventeen. He took part in the Pancho Villa Expedition. After that, he served bravely in World War I and earned a special award called the Silver Star for his courage.
In October 1924, he became an officer, starting as a Second Lieutenant. He steadily moved up through the ranks. He later became the Assistant Adjutant of the 33rd Division. As a Captain, he worked with General George Marshall. General Marshall was a senior instructor for the Illinois National Guard from 1933 to 1936.
Right before World War II began, Boyle was appointed as the Adjutant General of Illinois on November 8, 1940. He was promoted to Brigadier General by the Illinois governor. He was promoted again to Major General in 1945. Even after he reached the normal retirement age in 1963, he continued to serve as Adjutant General. He remained in this important role until his death in July 1969.
Major General Boyle was a forward-thinking leader. He made sure the Illinois National Guard started training to respond to local emergencies and unrest, not just military battles. This decision was proven right when the Illinois National Guard was called to help during the 1968 Democratic Convention.
Major General Boyle was one of only six generals in US Army history to serve as a general during three major conflicts. He served during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. His twenty-nine years leading the Illinois National Guard is the longest time any Adjutant General has served in Illinois.
Images for kids
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Private rank insignia
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Second Lieutenant rank insignia
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First Lieutenant rank insignia
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Captain rank insignia
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Major rank insignia
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Lieutenant Colonel rank insignia
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Colonel rank insignia
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Brigadier General rank insignia
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Major General rank insignia
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