General Sir Mike Jackson, Influential British Army
Renowned for his leadership in Kosovo and Iraq, Jackson's career was marked by pivotal decisions and a strong moral compass.
- General Sir Mike Jackson served as Chief of the General Staff from 2003 to 2006, overseeing the British Army during the Iraq War.
- Jackson was known for his decisive leadership during the Kosovo conflict, notably refusing to escalate tensions with Russian forces at Pristina Airport in 1999.
- His military career spanned nearly 45 years, including significant roles in Northern Ireland and Bosnia, and he was awarded the Distinguished Service Order for his service.
- Jackson's leadership style was characterized by a blend of toughness and fairness, earning him respect and the nickname 'The Prince of Darkness' among troops.
- He was a vocal critic of military bureaucracy and advocated for better support for the armed forces post-retirement.