Parmenion was a distinguished Macedonian general in the service of Philip II and later his son, Alexander the Great.
He often commanded the left wing of the army, serving as the defensive anchor (the 'anvil') while Alexander led the decisive cavalry charge (the 'hammer') on the right.
Despite his loyal service, he was assassinated on Alexander's orders after his son Philotas was accused of conspiring against the king, marking a dark chapter in Alexander's conquests.