Wyche, Ira Thomas, 1887-1981

Ira Thomas Wyche (b. October 16, 1887, Ocracoke, North Carolina-d. July 8, 1981, in Pinehurst, North Carolina) was a United States Army general. Upon graduation from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1911, he was commissioned a second lieutenant. Wyche served with the Texas Border Patrol (1916-1918) and the American Expeditionary Force in France (1918). After holding several field artillery commands during the post-World War I years, Wyche assumed command of the 74th Field Artillery Brigade in May of 1941. He served in World Wars I and II. As a major general Wyche commanded the 79th Infantry Division throughout its battle operations in the European Theater, and became commanding general of the VIII Corps in Germany in May 1945. He served in this capacity until December 15, 1945. Wyche next served on the Officer Interview Board from January 10, 1946, until February 21, when he received command of the III Corps. Wyche left this command the following May and became commanding officer of the 1st Service Command. In January of 1947, he was appointed Inspector General of the Army and served in that capacity until his retirement in September, 1948. He was appointed Inspector General of the Army in January 1947, and retired in September 1948. He resided in Pinehurst, N.C. after the war.