General George S. Patton and Field Marshal Erwin Rommel never met on the battlefields of World War II. If they did, it certainly would have been a struggle of life and death, a terrifying duel. Their similar tactics, undisputable courage, bravery, cool head, offensive spirits which turn to wild attacks of same degree, complete knowledge of all aspects of modern war and of its techniques earned them very important positions in world war literature. Through bold and tenacious actions, these two exceptional commanders (one American, one German) earned each other's respect despite being on opposing sides of the conflict. The mutual respect shown by General Patton and Field Marshal Rommel during World War II set the stage for the friendship that developed between their sons (Major General George S. Patton IV and Stuttgart Mayor Manfred Rommel) during the Cold War.