In charge of U.S. troops in Europe for opening of a second front is Major General Dwight D. Eisenhower, 51-year-old tank expert. Appointment of General Eisenhower to command of the European Theater for American Forces--the last formality before a Continental offensive--places him in the position occupied by General John J. Pershing in the last war. The General is already in London to plan his campaign. July 20, 1948.