The American Revolutionary War would have failed had it not been for Benedict Arnold’s bravery and skill. Nonetheless, the American Revoultionary War may have also failed to defend the independence of the Unnited States of America had Benedict Arnold’s acts of treason and the murder of George Washington, his friend and mentor, succeeded. I’ve visited Benedict Arnold’s tomb. So, I am very much aware of his background, which is why I asked the question you have not yet answered.
How do you feel about commemorating Benedict Arnold?
I have a preference for history, and no particular iron in that fire, but I see no problem at all in commemorating Arnold, remembering both the good and the bad.
I would think it best to remember General Pershing that way as well. While there is no direct evidence that he ordered war crimes to be committed, his subordinate commanders most certainly did, even if under the guise of General Order 100.
Likewise, General W.T. Sherman, whose men were ordered to “forage freely on the land”, can be commemorated as well.