Iraq War Commander Norman Schwarzkopf Dies

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The man who commanded U.S. forces against Saddam Hussein's army in the first Iraqi war -- General H. Norman Schwarzkopf -- has died at the age of 78.

A source told the Associated Press that the highly decorated four-star general died Thursday in Tampa, FL from complications of pneumonia.

The Vietnam War veteran -- who was given the nickname "Stormin' Norman" for his brash style -- is best known for leading international forces in Iraq in 1991 against Saddam Hussein's invasion of Kuwait. He commanded more than 540,000 U.S. troops and 200,000 allied forces during the six-week conflict.

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Among those offering condolences to the family was 88-year George H.W. Bush, who remains in the ICU at a Texas hospital while he recuperates from a fever and a persistent cough.

Bush, who worked alongside Schwarzkopf during his term as president/commander-in-chief, issued the following statement:

"Barbara and I mourn the loss of a true American patriot and one of the great military leaders of his generation. A distinguished member of that 'Long Gray Line' hailing from West Point, Gen. Norm Schwarzkopf, to me, epitomized the 'duty, service, country' creed that has defended our freedom and seen this great nation through our most trying international crises. More than that, he was a good and decent man - and a dear friend. Barbara and I send our condolences to his wife, Brenda, and his wonderful family."