As we celebrate the Memorial Day and Independence Day holidays, it is appropriate to reflect on the qualities necessary to be a good leader. The legacies of some of America’s renowned generals appear to be a good place to start.

When George McClellan graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1846, he was second in his class. Three years earlier, Ulysses S. Grant graduated, without distinction, in the middle of his class. Grant is remembered, though, as one of the finest horsemen to attend the academy.