A Different Perspective
"The Korean War has always been an unpopular war among the American People."
- Paul Robeson, Civil Rights activist
The Korean War ending in a stalemate led to the belief that Ridgway's success was not a real victory. Being confined to Korea, it is also viewed to have little influence on the rest of the world. This is definitely not the case. General MacArthur himself declared,
"I felt certain that if South Korea was allowed to fall, Communist leaders would be emboldened to override nations closer to our own shores." |
"Shrewd critics have assigned success to all manner of things; as tactics, shape of frontiers, happily placed rivers, mountains or woods, intellectual ability, or to the use of artillery. All in a measure true, but none vital. Nor is it even in the speed of the operations that the secret lays, but in the inspiring spirit with which they so inoculated their soldiers as to lift weary footsore men out of themselves and to make them march, forgetful of agony." - Major George S. Patton Jr.
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Although most acknowledge Ridgway's pivotal accomplishments, there were some that questioned his harsh method of leadership. Ridgway relieved a large number of officers, which could have undermined efforts to raise confidence. Ridgway also integrated his armies, which was opposed by some of the soldiers. Regardless of these minor oppositions, Ridgway's incredible leadership prevented an imminent democratic defeat.
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"We are still very much concerned about the proposed rapid release of officers in Korea as it may result in a Congressional investigation and a loss of all the new confidence the people are now showing. I suggest very strongly that you go slowly and think of the possible effect on us that each proposed change may cause." - General Haislip, Army Vice Chief of Staff
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