MacArthur - Truman's Frustration with MacArthur's Actions
Harry Truman:
I oughta kick his insubordinate ass right into the Sea of Japan. The lousiest trick he's pulled; I traveled 14,000 miles to reach an understanding face-to-face, and he still thinks he can do exactly what he damn well pleases!
Aide:
Can you imagine he actually sent a message to the Chinese threatening to destroy their forces unless they would negotiate a solution with him personally?
Harry Truman:
You know, there's a story, where Abe Lincoln was tryin to mount a horse that was skittish. And the horse kicked a hind hoof into the stirrup. So Lincoln says to im, "If you're gonna get on, I'll get off." Well, I'm not gettin off. I think Roosevelt shoulda- shoulda pulled Wainwright outta Corregidor and left that five-star brass hat MacArthur there to be the martyr.
Aide:
What shall I do with the cease-fire proposal?
Harry Truman:
Scrap it. I can't approach the Chinese on any political basis; not after this. That man's tryin to start World War III and I'm tryin to prevent it. I'll fire that brass hat prima donna right now. The hell does he think he is? God? Now, what do you think Congress'll do if I relieve the big general?
Aide:
Congress would flay you alive.
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