Known as a hero for his achievements at Verdun. He was an effective discipliarian and military leader, and was appointed to the highest military offices.
Citation:
Editors. "Henri Pétain becomes chief of French staff".
The Literary Encyclopedia. First published 01 March 2010
[http://www.litencyc.com/php/stopics.php?rec=true&UID=12467, accessed 18 June 2013.]