Memorial Day famous war heroes Famous war heroes.Memorial Day, always the last Monday in May, is a federal holiday to honor U.S. war heroes. Although originally set up to honor soldiers from the Civil War, the holiday expanded after World War I to include soldiers from all wars. Here's a look at just some of the famous war heroes in U.S. history. George Washington Revolutionary War The first president of the United States made his name first in this war and then as commander in chief of the Continental Army. His impact: Under his leadership, the army defeated the British in the Revolutionary War and the Colonies gained independence. Washington oversaw this legendary document guiding the new U.S. government and was named president in 1789. Nathanael Greene Revolutionary War Gen. Nathanael Greene was George Washington's trusted friend and right-hand man during the Revolutionary War. His impact: Greene played a pivotal role in the Siege of Boston and other battles before focusi...