Final answer:
Lieutenant Colonel Charles Young was the highest-ranking African American Army Officer during World War I, overcoming discriminatory retirement efforts. His role, among others like General John Pershing and George C. Marshall, emphasized the need for strong leadership during times of conflict.
Step-by-step explanation:
The founder referred to as an Army Officer during World War I is likely Lieutenant Colonel Charles Young. He was distinguished as the highest-ranking African-American officer at the onset of World War I. Despite the discriminatory challenges and the attempts by military officials to mandate his retirement, Young remained an influential figure. The significance of officers like Young is highlighted by the fact that during times of war, such as both World Wars, the United States required competent officers and strong leadership. Other notable names from this era include General John Pershing, known as the commander of American forces in Europe, and President Roosevelt's wartime appointments including George C. Marshall, who was made a four-star general and Army Chief of Staff on the same day that Germany invaded Poland in 1939. These appointments were crucial for establishing a command staff with the confidence to lead effectively, much as Dwight D. Eisenhower displayed with his organizational skills during World War I and later in World War II.