Parnell Jacobs (Earth-616)

Parnell Jacobs knew Jim Rhodes, the previous War Machine, from his military days. He became a freelance mercenary after being discharged. Rhodes declined to join him, remarking that Parnell was now working for the 'scum that you and I joined the Corps to fight against'. Parnell became wealthy as a result of his mercenary activities and bought a number of luxuries for himself and his wife Glenda.

Parnell Jacobs (Earth-616) from Iron Man Vol 3 19 001 — As War Machine

How Parnell came to associate with Stuart Clarke is unknown. He claims he found the lost War Machine armor and decided to use it rather than sell it.

He was drawn into conflict with Iron Man when ordered by Sunset Bain to attack a firm Tony Stark was scheduled to do consultation work for. Rhodes immediately alerted Stark. Even with Warbird assisting the injured Iron Man, Parnell was able to destroy the firm and escape the heroes.

Rhodes was able to identify Parnell after hearing a phrase he used on the news broadcast: "It looks like you weren't ready to play the game today."

After a second battle with Iron Man and subsequent confrontation with Rhodes and Glenda, Parnell abandoned his employer. He retained the War Machine armor although he discarded some additional weaponry Clarke had developed for it. Parnell's current whereabouts are unknown.