10 U.S. Presidents Who Have a History Of Serving in The Military

Do you know how many U.S. Presidents have served in the military? If you guessed 31, you’re correct! According to Military Times, “Even though military service is not a prerequisite to becoming president, members of the military develop significant leadership expertise during the time they train and serve.” In fact, 12 of those presidents achieved the rank of general.

From leading troops into battle to managing wartime strategies from the highest office in the land, military service has helped shape the leadership styles and political paths of many presidents. As Presidents Day approaches, it’s the perfect time to honor those who wore the uniform before taking on the responsibility of commander-in-chief.

Let’s take a closer look at 10 U.S. Presidents who served in the military and how their service shaped their time in office.

1. George Washington – Revolutionary War Hero

Military Service: Virginia Militia, Continental Army
Highest Rank: General and Commander-in-Chief

George Washington set the precedent for all who followed—not only as the first President of the United States but also as a seasoned military leader. Before his presidency, Washington gained experience during the French and Indian War and later took command of the Continental Army during the American Revolution. His leadership during the grueling eight-year war earned him national admiration and helped unify the newly independent states. Washington declined the offer of a kingship, choosing democracy over dictatorship, and brought the same selfless commitment to his presidency.

2. Ulysses S. Grant – Civil War Commander

Military Service: U.S. Army
Highest Rank: General of the Army

Best known for leading the Union Army to victory in the Civil War, Ulysses S. Grant was a military tactician with an unyielding resolve. After years of civilian hardship, the Civil War reactivated his military career. As Commanding General of the U.S. Army, Grant outmaneuvered Confederate forces and accepted Robert E. Lee’s surrender at Appomattox. His presidency focused on Reconstruction and civil rights, though his administration was marred by scandals. Nonetheless, his leadership during one of the darkest periods in U.S. history earned him enduring respect.

3. Dwight D. Eisenhower – Supreme Allied Commander

Military Service: U.S. Army
Highest Rank: General of the Army (Five-Star General)

Before becoming the 34th President, Dwight D. Eisenhower was the Supreme Allied Commander in Europe during World War II. He oversaw Operation Overlord—the D-Day invasion of Normandy—which marked a turning point in the war. Eisenhower’s military discipline translated to his presidency, where he focused on infrastructure (launching the Interstate Highway System) and global stability during the early Cold War. His calm, strategic thinking helped avoid direct conflict during tense moments of international diplomacy.

4. Theodore Roosevelt – Rough Rider

Military Service: New York National Guard, U.S. Volunteer Cavalry
Highest Rank: Colonel

The energetic and bold Theodore Roosevelt was more than just a politician—he was also a war hero. During the Spanish-American War, he famously led the Rough Riders in the Battle of San Juan Hill. Although his military career was relatively short, it cemented his reputation as a fearless leader. As president, Roosevelt brought that same vigor to trust-busting, conservation, and strengthening America’s global presence, notably with the construction of the Panama Canal.

5. Andrew Jackson – War of 1812 Hero

Military Service: Continental Army (briefly), Tennessee Militia
Highest Rank: Major General

A fierce warrior and populist, Andrew Jackson rose to national fame after defeating British forces at the Battle of New Orleans during the War of 1812. Known for his fiery temper and iron will, Jackson carried his military-style leadership into the White House. As president, he positioned himself as a champion of the “common man,” but his tenure also included controversial policies like the Indian Removal Act and the dismantling of the national bank.

6. John F. Kennedy – WWII Naval Officer

Military Service: U.S. Navy
Highest Rank: Lieutenant

John F. Kennedy’s wartime experience as the commander of PT-109 in the Pacific theater during World War II was one of courage and resilience. After his boat was struck by a Japanese destroyer, Kennedy led his crew to safety, even towing an injured sailor for miles. His wartime heroism became part of his political identity. As president, JFK faced the Cuban Missile Crisis, supported civil rights, and inspired a generation with the space race and his vision for a “New Frontier.”

7. George H.W. Bush – WWII Naval Aviator

Military Service: U.S. Navy
Highest Rank: Lieutenant (junior grade)

George H.W. Bush was one of the youngest naval aviators in American history. During World War II, he flew 58 combat missions and was shot down over the Pacific. After bailing out of his aircraft, he was rescued by a U.S. submarine. His wartime experience imbued him with a deep sense of duty and resilience. These qualities carried over into his presidency, where he navigated the end of the Cold War and led a successful coalition during the Gulf War.

8. Harry S. Truman – World War I Artillery Officer

Military Service: Missouri National Guard
Highest Rank: Captain

Harry S. Truman commanded an artillery unit in France during World War I, earning a reputation for leadership and bravery under pressure. His combat experience gave him an appreciation for the complexities of war, a perspective he carried into one of the most consequential presidencies in U.S. history. Truman made the fateful decision to use atomic bombs to end WWII, oversaw the Marshall Plan to rebuild Europe, and led the country during the early stages of the Cold War and Korean conflict.

9. Zachary Taylor – Mexican-American War Veteran

Military Service: U.S. Army
Highest Rank: Major General

Zachary Taylor served in the military for four decades before becoming the 12th President of the United States. He earned national fame during the Mexican-American War, especially at the Battle of Buena Vista. Though a political novice, Taylor was celebrated as a national hero. Unfortunately, his presidency was cut short when he died just 16 months after taking office. Still, his military reputation helped secure his election at a time when national unity was beginning to fray over slavery.

10. James Monroe – Revolutionary War Officer

Military Service: Continental Army
Highest Rank: Major

James Monroe, the fifth president, fought alongside George Washington in the Revolutionary War. He was wounded at the Battle of Trenton and went on to serve as an officer in multiple campaigns. Monroe’s presidency was marked by the “Era of Good Feelings” and the Monroe Doctrine, a cornerstone of American foreign policy. His military service, combined with years in diplomacy and government, helped him shape a vision for a more independent and unified nation.