The United States Army Officer
Candidate Schools Alumni Association

THE NINETY-DAY WONDERS
OCS and the Modern American Army

By Milton M. McPherson, Ph.D.
Infantry OCS Class 16-52

Product Description
This one-of-a kind book explains the system of procuring and training Army officers prior to World War I and the origin and evolution of the OCS concept during and after the war. Societal changes and the general loosening of the ties that bind our society since World War II have had a profound effect on the United States Army and Army OCS. The authority conferred by the commission alone has limited utility today compared to the Army of the past. More than ever before the officer of the future must lead by personal example. They must be good soldiers first, well educated and enlightened and hard. OCS has operated continuously since 1941 and remains one of the sternest tests officer candidates, men and women, will ever face. It remains the only source of commissioned Army officers capable of rapid expansion to meet the national defense needs of the nation in the future.

This book includes photos from the National Archives and cartoons from class annuals. A must read for service members and retirees alike. A perfect gift for history lovers!

About the Author
Dr. Milton M. McPherson holds a Professor of Emeritus of History from Troy State University as well as a BA History, 1950, a MA History, 1959, and a Ph.D. History, 1970, all from the University of Alabama. Dr. McPherson has done post doctural study at The University of Virginia in 1977. You can find Dr. McPherson as a subject of Biographical Record in Marquis' (established 1899); Who's Who in the South and Southwest (1995-1996); Who's Who in American Education (1996-1997); and Who's Who in America (1996, 1999).

He was a member of the US Army, Infantry (1950-1953). He was drafted and served with the 45th division in Louisiana and Japan (1950-1951). Dr. McPherson completed Infantry Officer's Candidate School at Fort Benning, Georgia in June of 1952. He was Commanding Officer of H Company of the 61st Infantry Regiment at Fort Jackson, South Carolina from 1952-1953.

Dr. McPherson is a member of the Alabama Historical Association, the International Platform Association, the Southern Historical Association and the Masonic Order.

He is the author of The Cocky Officer: OCS and the Modern American Army, 1998, and has authored approximately 40 scholarly/popular articles. Dr. McPherson is the editor of: Memories that Lingered: The Life and Times of Laurence Milton McPherson, 1993 and Timeless Moments: Essays in American History, 1995

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