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1
00:02:36,124 --> 00:02:39,125
Jimmy, how are you?
Billy, it's good
to see you.
2
00:02:39,125 --> 00:02:41,126
Admiral Sims,
General Mitchell.
3
00:02:41,626 --> 00:02:43,126
We've met.
4
00:02:43,627 --> 00:02:45,126
Mitchell,
you know Admiral Gage?
5
00:02:45,627 --> 00:02:47,128
We've exchanged
correspondence.
6
00:02:47,628 --> 00:02:50,646
This is Commander Landsdowne
of our lighter-than-air service.
7
00:02:50,646 --> 00:02:53,647
His dirigible
will patrol the area
during maneuvers.
8
00:02:53,647 --> 00:02:55,647
I know
the commander.
General Mitchell.
9
00:02:55,647 --> 00:02:58,148
I'd like to
clearly state, Billy,
10
00:02:58,148 --> 00:03:00,149
that I'm extremely
and utterly impartial...
11
00:03:00,149 --> 00:03:02,149
in your dispute
with the navy.
12
00:03:02,149 --> 00:03:04,150
That's why
the general staff
assigned me...
13
00:03:04,150 --> 00:03:07,151
to decide whether
to allow you to
carry out this mission.
14
00:03:07,151 --> 00:03:09,652
I assume you have
no objection to me.
15
00:03:09,652 --> 00:03:11,653
I wouldn't want
a fairer judge.
16
00:03:11,653 --> 00:03:14,654
Very well, then.
Admiral, will you state
the navy's position?
17
00:03:14,654 --> 00:03:19,154
That battleship
is the primary target
of our maneuvers.
18
00:03:19,154 --> 00:03:23,156
The air service believes
that it can be sunk
by aerial bombardment.
19
00:03:23,156 --> 00:03:25,157
The navy denies this...
20
00:03:25,157 --> 00:03:28,658
and asks that they
be allowed to sink it
with naval gunfire.
21
00:03:28,658 --> 00:03:31,659
Why does the navy feel
the ship can't be sunk
from the air?
22
00:03:31,659 --> 00:03:34,660
That ship
was once the pride
of the German navy--
23
00:03:35,160 --> 00:03:36,660
the battleship
Ostfriesland.
24
00:03:37,160 --> 00:03:39,661
The British called her
"the unsinkable Dreadnought."
25
00:03:40,161 --> 00:03:42,162
Are you aware
of these facts, General?
Yes, sir.
26
00:03:44,162 --> 00:03:46,163
Would you care to fly
back to Langley Field?
27
00:03:46,663 --> 00:03:49,164
I'll show you exactly
how I intend to sink her.
28
00:03:49,664 --> 00:03:51,665
Yes, I'll be glad to.
Gentlemen.
29
00:04:05,670 --> 00:04:08,671
What'd you think of that?
All hits or near misses.
Quite impressive.
30
00:04:09,171 --> 00:04:11,672
We'll send that scow
to the bottom
in nothing flat.
31
00:04:12,171 --> 00:04:14,172
Somebody's burning!
Someone's burning!
32
00:04:14,672 --> 00:04:16,674
Look! He's burning!
33
00:04:16,674 --> 00:04:19,674
Call out the crash truck
and the ambulance!
34
00:04:24,175 --> 00:04:27,175
Why doesn't he
use his parachute?
We have no parachutes.
35
00:04:32,678 --> 00:04:35,679
[ Siren Wailing ]
36
00:04:38,680 --> 00:04:41,180
[ Siren Continues ]
37
00:04:46,683 --> 00:04:49,684
[ Coughing ]
38
00:04:51,684 --> 00:04:54,185
Are you all right,
Bob?
Yeah, I--
39
00:04:54,185 --> 00:04:57,186
I guess so.
I'm a little singed
around the edges.
40
00:04:59,186 --> 00:05:01,687
Here.
What happened?
41
00:05:01,687 --> 00:05:03,688
It's that fuel line.
42
00:05:03,688 --> 00:05:06,689
I smelled gas
in the cockpit
when I took off.
43
00:05:06,689 --> 00:05:09,690
Why'd you go up
when you knew
something was wrong?
44
00:05:11,190 --> 00:05:13,691
General,
if it isn't one thing,
it's another.
45
00:05:13,691 --> 00:05:16,692
Today it was that fuel line.
Yesterday
it was an oil pump.
46
00:05:16,692 --> 00:05:19,693
And last week
I almost lost a wing.
47
00:05:19,693 --> 00:05:22,193
And yet I'm luckier
than a lot of the guys.
48
00:05:23,694 --> 00:05:26,695
Now you see, Jimmy,
why I need money so badly.
49
00:05:26,695 --> 00:05:29,195
She certainly could
use some improvements.
50
00:05:29,195 --> 00:05:32,196
But that's not
an impressive weapon,
any way you take it.
51
00:05:32,196 --> 00:05:35,198
It can be. Come here.
I'd like to show you
something.
52
00:05:36,698 --> 00:05:38,699
Halt!
53
00:05:38,699 --> 00:05:41,199
Sentry, this is
General Guthrie.
54
00:05:41,199 --> 00:05:43,200
Give me a hand,
will you.
55
00:05:47,201 --> 00:05:49,202
Where'd you get those?
56
00:05:49,202 --> 00:05:52,203
I had Ordnance
make it up for me.
57
00:05:52,203 --> 00:05:54,203
One ton
of cast T.N.T.
58
00:05:54,203 --> 00:05:57,705
You're not trying to tell me
that your planes can carry
a 2,000-pound bomb.
59
00:05:57,705 --> 00:06:01,706
Of course they can.
They'll sink the battleship
as though it were a tin can.
60
00:06:01,706 --> 00:06:03,707
Let's be realistic,
Billy.
61
00:06:03,707 --> 00:06:07,207
A 2,000-pound bomb
is not practical
under wartime conditions.
62
00:06:07,207 --> 00:06:10,208
Maybe you'll
get it in the air,
but never to the target.
63
00:06:10,709 --> 00:06:12,710
That's exactly
what I want to do.
64
00:06:12,710 --> 00:06:15,711
Give me a chance,
and I'll show you
it can be done.
65
00:06:15,711 --> 00:06:18,712
On a staged exhibition, maybe,
but never in combat.
66
00:06:18,712 --> 00:06:21,713
How high do you want to fly?
I'd like to come in
at a thousand feet.
67
00:06:21,713 --> 00:06:26,214
You know as well as I do that
anti-aircraft will knock down
any planes lower than 5,000.
68
00:06:26,214 --> 00:06:28,214
Anti-aircraft?
69
00:06:28,214 --> 00:06:30,215
In a real fight,
70
00:06:30,215 --> 00:06:33,216
our pursuit ships
would be in there
strafing their decks.
71
00:06:33,216 --> 00:06:35,717
I have to be realistic
in this, Billy.
72
00:06:35,717 --> 00:06:38,718
After all,
we have performance figures
on our guns.
73
00:06:38,718 --> 00:06:41,218
But the airplane
is an unproved weapon.
74
00:06:41,218 --> 00:06:44,219
I'll prove it to you
if you'll let me.
75
00:06:44,720 --> 00:06:47,720
One of these days,
half the world will be
in ruins from the air.
76
00:06:48,220 --> 00:06:50,722
I want this country
to be in the other half.
77
00:06:51,221 --> 00:06:53,723
If I sink that ship,
we may have
a real air force.
78
00:06:54,222 --> 00:06:57,723
Where's the money coming from?
There's not enough to go around
for the army and navy now.
79
00:06:58,223 --> 00:07:01,224
Forget them.
The next war will be fought
in the sky anyway.
80
00:07:01,725 --> 00:07:04,726
No war is won
until a bayonet is put
to the throat of the enemy.
81
00:07:05,225 --> 00:07:07,728
The foot soldiers
won the last war,
and they'll win the next.
82
00:07:08,226 --> 00:07:10,728
In the end,
it's the infantry
who will lead the way.
83
00:07:11,228 --> 00:07:13,729
Yes, and we'll
blast the road for them.
84
00:07:14,229 --> 00:07:17,731
Your attitude isn't
helping your case any.
I'm sorry, sir.
85
00:07:17,731 --> 00:07:20,731
Well, then,
let's forget the next war.
86
00:07:20,731 --> 00:07:23,231
I'm in a war right now.
87
00:07:23,231 --> 00:07:25,232
My boys are dying
every week...
88
00:07:25,232 --> 00:07:28,233
in these obsolete,
moth-eaten, antiquated
flying machines.
89
00:07:28,733 --> 00:07:32,735
Let me get in there
and prove that
we're entitled to live.
90
00:07:33,235 --> 00:07:36,235
Billy, this test
is supposed to simulate
wartime conditions.
91
00:07:36,235 --> 00:07:39,236
If you come in
at a low level...
92
00:07:39,236 --> 00:07:42,237
and drop a bomb too big
ever to be practical,
93
00:07:42,237 --> 00:07:45,239
you're simply
staging an exhibition
for your own purposes...
94
00:07:45,239 --> 00:07:47,740
and you'll give
the wrong impression.
95
00:07:47,740 --> 00:07:52,241
Now, in order to be fair
to both sides, I'm going to
give you two cracks at her.
96
00:07:52,241 --> 00:07:56,241
But you'll have to come in
at 5,000 feet and carry
only the thousand-pound bombs.
97
00:07:56,241 --> 00:07:59,242
Five thousand feet?
Why, that'll rig it all
in favor of the navy.
98
00:07:59,743 --> 00:08:01,744
I'm sorry.
Those are your orders.
99
00:08:02,244 --> 00:08:05,245
Have you a car
available to take me back?
100
00:08:05,245 --> 00:08:07,245
Yes, sir.
101
00:08:13,247 --> 00:08:14,748
I'd like somebody
to tell me...
102
00:08:15,248 --> 00:08:18,249
why the taxpayers
of this country should
throw their money away...
103
00:08:18,249 --> 00:08:21,250
on a useless
military toy
called the airplane.
104
00:08:21,250 --> 00:08:24,751
The theory is, Senator,
it might come in handy
in time of war.
105
00:08:24,751 --> 00:08:27,752
War is a serious business,
Congressman Reid,
106
00:08:27,752 --> 00:08:29,753
and it's got to
be taken seriously.
107
00:08:30,252 --> 00:08:34,254
The taxpayers don't want
their money wasted on
a lot of silly kite-flyers.
108
00:08:34,754 --> 00:08:37,254
One six-inch naval gun
is worth the entire
air service.
109
00:08:37,755 --> 00:08:41,757
Exactly, and I think
it should be reduced to
its realistic proportions--
110
00:08:41,757 --> 00:08:44,757
an entertainment unit
for holiday parades
and state fairs.
111
00:08:44,757 --> 00:08:46,759
[ Laughing ]
112
00:08:46,759 --> 00:08:49,760
If we have another war,
Senator, I hope
you fight it personally.
113
00:08:59,763 --> 00:09:02,763
Gen. Mitchell has signaled,
requesting permission
to commence bombing.
114
00:09:02,763 --> 00:09:05,764
Has he reported his altitude?
He's at the
5,000-foot level, sir.
115
00:09:14,767 --> 00:09:17,268
[ Bombs Whistling ]
116
00:09:21,769 --> 00:09:24,270
[ Explosions ]
117
00:09:30,521 --> 00:09:32,022
[ Laughing ]
He didn't even scratch her.
118
00:09:32,522 --> 00:09:35,023
I knew he couldn't sink her.
Sink her? He didn't
even touch her.
119
00:09:35,523 --> 00:09:39,025
- After all, the British fleet
couldn't sink it.
- I knew he could never do it.
120
00:09:56,530 --> 00:09:59,031
General,
I want new orders
for tomorrow.
121
00:09:59,031 --> 00:10:02,531
In what way?
I want to use
2,000-pound bombs.
122
00:10:02,531 --> 00:10:04,532
We've been
over that before.
123
00:10:04,532 --> 00:10:07,533
Request denied.
You're dismissed,
gentlemen.
124
00:10:09,034 --> 00:10:11,034
But, Jimmy,
with 2,000-pounders...
125
00:10:11,034 --> 00:10:13,035
I don't have to
hit the ship.
126
00:10:13,035 --> 00:10:16,036
Water concussion will
blow her bottom out.
I can prove it.
127
00:10:16,036 --> 00:10:19,037
A 2,000-pound bomb
is an unrealistic weapon.
128
00:10:19,037 --> 00:10:21,038
Make your run
as before.
129
00:10:21,038 --> 00:10:24,039
I'm not going out there
and make a fool
of the air service...
130
00:10:24,039 --> 00:10:27,040
in front of
40 foreign nations
and the world press.
131
00:10:27,040 --> 00:10:29,040
You will carry out
your orders.
132
00:10:30,041 --> 00:10:32,041
Let's--
Let's postpone the run.
133
00:10:32,041 --> 00:10:35,042
Let me off the hook
till I can figure something out.
134
00:10:35,042 --> 00:10:38,542
I think it would be
most unfortunate if you
were to sink that ship.
135
00:10:38,542 --> 00:10:41,044
What?
136
00:10:41,044 --> 00:10:44,045
Twice during my lifetime
this country's
gone to war...
137
00:10:44,045 --> 00:10:47,546
with an army untrained,
unequipped and unready.
138
00:10:47,546 --> 00:10:50,547
I don't want to go to war
that way again.
139
00:10:50,547 --> 00:10:54,048
But I might have to
if you can make Congress believe
this country can be defended...
140
00:10:54,048 --> 00:10:56,048
by airplanes alone.
141
00:10:56,048 --> 00:11:00,550
You will attack
from 5,000 feet
with 1,000-pound bombs.
142
00:11:01,051 --> 00:11:02,550
Good day, Billy.
143
00:11:03,051 --> 00:11:05,052
Go on, go on.
144
00:11:52,067 --> 00:11:54,067
What's going on,
boys?
145
00:12:03,570 --> 00:12:05,570
We've been talking.
146
00:12:05,570 --> 00:12:07,570
What about?
147
00:12:09,072 --> 00:12:11,072
We've come
to the conclusion...
148
00:12:11,072 --> 00:12:13,073
that we're just not
getting anyplace.
149
00:12:13,073 --> 00:12:15,073
I see.
150
00:12:15,073 --> 00:12:17,075
And?
151
00:12:17,075 --> 00:12:19,075
And...
152
00:12:21,575 --> 00:12:24,576
there just doesn't seem
to be any future, sir.
153
00:12:24,576 --> 00:12:26,577
Everything seems
kind of hopeless.
154
00:12:28,577 --> 00:12:31,578
So we've decided
to ask your advice...
155
00:12:31,578 --> 00:12:34,579
if we should resign
from the service.
156
00:12:46,583 --> 00:12:49,584
You want me to tell you
to quit flying?
157
00:12:51,085 --> 00:12:54,086
Sure, the planes
are no good and--
158
00:12:58,088 --> 00:13:00,088
and the pay is small,
159
00:13:02,088 --> 00:13:06,589
but 20 years from now
San Francisco will be
just a few hours from New York,
160
00:13:08,091 --> 00:13:12,591
and New York
will be a bombing run
from Berlin.
161
00:13:12,591 --> 00:13:16,093
The whole--
The whole world
will be in the air.
162
00:13:16,093 --> 00:13:18,594
[ Airplane Passing Overhead ]
163
00:13:24,095 --> 00:13:27,596
Go ahead and quit
if you want to,
but don't ask me about it.
164
00:13:43,601 --> 00:13:46,602
[ Buzzes ]
165
00:13:56,288 --> 00:13:58,789
Oh. Billy.
Come in.
166
00:13:59,790 --> 00:14:02,791
Oh, I-- I didn't think
you'd gone to bed yet.
167
00:14:02,791 --> 00:14:05,791
I'm sorry I woke you.
Go on back to sleep.
No, no, come in.
168
00:14:05,791 --> 00:14:07,793
Billy!
169
00:14:07,793 --> 00:14:09,793
What are you doing
in Washington?
170
00:14:09,793 --> 00:14:12,794
Well, I-- I didn't
mean to disturb you.
171
00:14:12,794 --> 00:14:15,795
I've just been
driving around,
thought you might be up.
172
00:14:15,795 --> 00:14:17,796
I'd better go.
Don't be silly.
173
00:14:17,796 --> 00:14:19,796
Can I get you
anything?
174
00:14:19,796 --> 00:14:21,797
No, thank you,
Margaret.
[ Chuckles ]
175
00:14:21,797 --> 00:14:24,297
I wouldn't be
very good company
tonight.
176
00:14:24,297 --> 00:14:28,299
You look tired.
Why don't you sit down.
I'll get you a glass of milk.
177
00:14:29,799 --> 00:14:31,800
I know how you feel,
Billy.
178
00:14:31,800 --> 00:14:34,300
It was tough luck
about the ship.
179
00:14:34,300 --> 00:14:36,300
Well, it's not only
the ship.
180
00:14:36,300 --> 00:14:38,302
The whole thing
has fallen apart.
181
00:14:38,302 --> 00:14:41,803
My boys came to me tonight.
They want to quit.
All of them.
182
00:14:41,803 --> 00:14:43,804
I'm not surprised.
183
00:14:43,804 --> 00:14:46,804
We all get a little discouraged
at one time or another.
184
00:14:46,804 --> 00:14:49,806
I've been thinking
maybe I've been wrong
about everything.
185
00:14:49,806 --> 00:14:51,806
Maybe men
weren't meant to fly.
186
00:14:51,806 --> 00:14:54,306
That doesn't sound
like you, Billy.
187
00:14:55,808 --> 00:14:58,308
When I got
to be a general,
I thought,
188
00:14:58,308 --> 00:15:02,309
Now I'll be able
to do things,
change the whole works.
189
00:15:02,309 --> 00:15:04,810
But they're
out to stop me.
190
00:15:04,810 --> 00:15:07,811
There's always
a bigger general.
191
00:15:07,811 --> 00:15:10,312
[ Scoffs ]
General Yesterday.
192
00:15:12,312 --> 00:15:15,313
No, thank you, Margaret.
I really don't care
for anything.
193
00:15:15,814 --> 00:15:18,314
You go back to bed,
and I'll go where I belong.
194
00:15:18,815 --> 00:15:20,315
Now, Billy,
drink this
and relax.
195
00:15:20,815 --> 00:15:22,816
You can't
possibly sleep
the way you are.
196
00:15:23,316 --> 00:15:25,316
Sleep?
[ Chuckles ]
197
00:15:25,817 --> 00:15:29,318
There's a little job
I have to figure out
for tomorrow--
198
00:15:29,818 --> 00:15:34,320
how to sink
a great, big, steel-covered,
unsinkable battleship...
199
00:15:34,320 --> 00:15:37,321
when my commanding officer
has made it impossible.
200
00:15:37,321 --> 00:15:39,822
You can't blame Guthrie
for that, Billy.
201
00:15:39,822 --> 00:15:41,822
He's just going
according to rules.
202
00:15:41,822 --> 00:15:45,322
That's the way we all
have to work-- by the book.
You know that.
203
00:15:45,322 --> 00:15:47,824
Sure.
We go by the book.
204
00:15:47,824 --> 00:15:52,325
Suppose some other country
throws away the book.
Then where are we?
205
00:15:52,325 --> 00:15:55,826
I've got to open their eyes
to what can happen.
206
00:16:02,328 --> 00:16:04,329
I've got to
sink that battleship.
207
00:16:04,830 --> 00:16:07,330
You can't do
the impossible.
208
00:16:07,831 --> 00:16:09,831
I can try.
209
00:16:12,331 --> 00:16:16,332
Zach, will you
call Langley Field,
ask for Russ Peters,
210
00:16:16,332 --> 00:16:20,334
tell him to get the boys up
and say I'm on my way
back there now.
211
00:16:20,334 --> 00:16:23,835
Now? Oh, can't you
wait till morning?
212
00:16:23,835 --> 00:16:26,836
No, there's--
there's something
I've got to do tonight.
213
00:16:26,836 --> 00:16:29,336
And you know what?
214
00:16:29,336 --> 00:16:31,337
I'm scared to death.
215
00:16:31,337 --> 00:16:35,339
But Zach'll tell you
that's normal
for a flyer.
216
00:16:35,339 --> 00:16:37,840
Billy, what are you
going to do?
217
00:16:37,840 --> 00:16:39,840
You'll hear about it.
218
00:16:39,840 --> 00:16:42,841
Don't forget that call,
will you, Zach?
Good night, kids.
219
00:16:42,841 --> 00:16:44,842
Good night, Billy.
Night, Billy.
220
00:16:51,844 --> 00:16:54,344
What is this
all about?
I don't know.
221
00:16:54,344 --> 00:16:56,346
Call came
from Washington.
222
00:17:12,851 --> 00:17:14,851
What's up,
General?
223
00:17:16,352 --> 00:17:19,353
There's been a change
in orders, boys.
224
00:17:19,853 --> 00:17:22,854
We go in at low level today
with 2,000-pound bombs.
225
00:17:23,354 --> 00:17:25,855
Hey, now you're talkin'!
That's more like it!
When do we start?
226
00:17:26,355 --> 00:17:28,355
How did you work it,
General?
Never mind.
227
00:17:28,856 --> 00:17:31,857
Get the ordnance men out
and start loading.
228
00:17:32,857 --> 00:17:34,857
General.
229
00:17:36,859 --> 00:17:39,359
Is this really
on the level, sir?
230
00:17:39,859 --> 00:17:41,359
Did new orders
really come through?
231
00:17:41,860 --> 00:17:44,861
You heard what I said,
didn't you?
Yes, sir.
232
00:17:46,361 --> 00:17:47,861
General.
233
00:17:49,863 --> 00:17:53,363
This is a strange
time of night for orders
to come out, sir.
234
00:17:53,363 --> 00:17:56,865
Are you sure
you're not just
doing this on your own?
235
00:17:56,865 --> 00:17:58,865
Don't you worry
about that, Russ.
236
00:17:58,865 --> 00:18:02,366
You just get out there
on the field
and get those planes ready.
237
00:18:02,366 --> 00:18:04,867
Okay?
Yes, sir.
238
00:18:39,511 --> 00:18:42,512
What are they doing?
They're dropping down
for a low-level attack.
239
00:18:42,512 --> 00:18:44,513
But that's
against the rules!
240
00:18:47,514 --> 00:18:50,014
Did you
authorize this?
Absolutely not.
241
00:18:50,014 --> 00:18:52,014
[ Shouting ]
[ Explosions ]
242
00:18:53,015 --> 00:18:55,516
[ Bombs Whistling ]
243
00:18:56,016 --> 00:18:58,017
[ Explosions ]
244
00:19:06,136 --> 00:19:09,771
How was that for
a military toy, Senator?
[ Laughing ]
245
00:19:12,272 --> 00:19:15,273
[ Airplanes Passing ]
246
00:19:25,776 --> 00:19:29,277
"General Mitchell's
whole course
has been so lawless,
247
00:19:29,277 --> 00:19:32,278
"so lacking
in reasonable teamwork,
248
00:19:32,278 --> 00:19:35,779
"so indicative of
a personal ambition for
his branch of the service...
249
00:19:35,779 --> 00:19:39,280
"at the expense
of everyone with whom
he is associated...
250
00:19:39,280 --> 00:19:42,781
"that his actions
render him unfit for a high
administrative position...
251
00:19:42,781 --> 00:19:44,782
"such as he now occupies.
252
00:19:45,282 --> 00:19:47,283
"The secretary of war
hereby directs...
253
00:19:47,783 --> 00:19:50,284
"that Brigadier General
William Mitchell...
254
00:19:50,284 --> 00:19:52,784
"be relieved
of his command
in the air service...
255
00:19:52,784 --> 00:19:55,785
"and be assigned to duty
at Fort Sam Houston, Texas.
256
00:19:55,785 --> 00:19:57,786
"To accommodate
his new duties,
257
00:19:57,786 --> 00:20:00,787
General Mitchell
will revert
to the rank of colonel."
258
00:20:02,287 --> 00:20:05,289
Would you excuse us,
gentlemen?
259
00:20:14,292 --> 00:20:17,792
Progress is necessary...
260
00:20:17,792 --> 00:20:20,293
in an army, Billy,
261
00:20:20,293 --> 00:20:23,794
but you've first
got to have an army.
262
00:20:23,794 --> 00:20:26,795
There's no progress...
263
00:20:26,795 --> 00:20:30,296
if your officers
are undisciplined.
264
00:20:30,296 --> 00:20:33,797
I put my star on the line
for something I believe in,
265
00:20:33,797 --> 00:20:35,798
and I lost.
266
00:20:35,798 --> 00:20:38,299
Your contribution
is on record, Colonel.
267
00:20:38,299 --> 00:20:40,799
It won't be lost.
I hope not, sir.
268
00:20:41,300 --> 00:20:43,300
But there's more
at stake than me.
269
00:20:43,300 --> 00:20:46,302
It's the air service.
270
00:20:46,302 --> 00:20:48,802
It's a new weapon,
a big one.
271
00:20:48,802 --> 00:20:50,802
The biggest
in the world.
272
00:20:52,804 --> 00:20:54,304
Put me down
another step.
273
00:20:54,804 --> 00:20:58,305
Make me a captain, sir,
but let me stay
in the air with my boys.
274
00:21:00,805 --> 00:21:02,307
[ Sighs ]
275
00:21:02,807 --> 00:21:04,807
Sorry, Billy.
276
00:21:09,309 --> 00:21:10,809
Anything else?
277
00:21:11,309 --> 00:21:13,311
No, sir.
278
00:21:13,809 --> 00:21:16,311
It's not so bad
in Texas, Billy.
279
00:21:16,811 --> 00:21:18,811
I've been there.
280
00:21:24,063 --> 00:21:26,063
Yes, sir,
General.
281
00:21:26,063 --> 00:21:29,065
Without a doubt,
your fort ranks
at the top of the list...
282
00:21:29,065 --> 00:21:32,066
of the military
establishments we've
visited on our tour.
283
00:21:32,066 --> 00:21:34,066
That's right,
General.
284
00:21:34,066 --> 00:21:36,066
That's mighty fine
of you gentlemen.
285
00:21:36,066 --> 00:21:38,568
A little more,
Congressman?
No, thank you, General.
286
00:21:38,568 --> 00:21:41,569
There's a request I'd
like to make though.
Certainly, Mr. Reid.
287
00:21:41,569 --> 00:21:45,570
There's one of your officers
I'd like to talk to.
Could I see Col. Mitchell?
288
00:21:45,570 --> 00:21:48,571
Mitchell? Why, of course.
I'll send for him
right away.
289
00:21:48,571 --> 00:21:51,572
No need to take him
away from his duties.
I just want to say hello.
290
00:21:51,572 --> 00:21:54,573
If somebody could
show me where he is,
I can find my way back.
291
00:21:54,573 --> 00:21:56,573
Why, of course,
of course.
292
00:21:57,073 --> 00:21:58,574
It is recommended...
293
00:21:59,074 --> 00:22:03,575
that said shed be located
within 20 yards
of the machine shop...
294
00:22:04,075 --> 00:22:06,076
and be of
sufficient capacity...
295
00:22:06,076 --> 00:22:09,578
for the storage
of spare parts as well.
296
00:22:09,578 --> 00:22:11,578
Suggested dimensions are--
297
00:22:11,578 --> 00:22:15,079
Thanks very much.
I'll find my way back.
298
00:22:15,079 --> 00:22:18,080
Frank!
What are you doing here?
299
00:22:18,080 --> 00:22:21,080
I'm on a junket.
Thought I'd drop around,
see how you are.
300
00:22:21,080 --> 00:22:24,582
[ Chuckles ]
Well, I lost my stars,
but I still have all my buttons.
301
00:22:24,582 --> 00:22:28,584
Gee, I'm glad to see you.
How are things in Washington?
Give me the news.
302
00:22:28,584 --> 00:22:31,084
There hasn't been any
since you left.
303
00:22:31,084 --> 00:22:33,085
Sergeant, take these
to Major Anderson.
304
00:22:33,085 --> 00:22:35,085
Tell him
they're okay.
Yes, sir.
305
00:22:36,086 --> 00:22:39,086
How are all my boys?
Have you seen them?
306
00:22:39,086 --> 00:22:41,587
The ones that are left
are all right.
307
00:22:41,587 --> 00:22:44,588
Have you seen Russ Peters?
I haven't heard
from him lately.
308
00:22:44,588 --> 00:22:46,589
He's all right.
309
00:22:46,589 --> 00:22:49,590
He's better off
than you are.
310
00:22:49,590 --> 00:22:53,091
This climate must remind you
of your Philippines campaign.
311
00:22:53,091 --> 00:22:55,091
Nobody's shooting
at me here.
312
00:22:55,091 --> 00:22:58,092
The heat should be great
for your malaria.
313
00:22:58,092 --> 00:23:00,594
I haven't had
a chill all summer.
314
00:23:00,594 --> 00:23:05,094
Say, Frank, do you know
if the army's ordered any of
those new Ford Tri-motors?
315
00:23:05,094 --> 00:23:07,095
I know. No.
316
00:23:07,095 --> 00:23:09,096
They're a wonderful
airplane.
317
00:23:09,096 --> 00:23:12,597
Isn't there something
you can do about it?
They won't listen to me.
318
00:23:12,597 --> 00:23:14,598
What areyou
gonna do about it?
319
00:23:14,598 --> 00:23:17,599
All I can do.
I'll write another letter
to headquarters.
320
00:23:17,599 --> 00:23:20,600
I write one every day.
Sometimes two.
Ah.
321
00:23:20,600 --> 00:23:24,101
Billy, they just put up
a new building in Washington
for letters like that.
322
00:23:24,101 --> 00:23:27,102
It's built in the shape
of a wastepaper basket.
323
00:23:27,102 --> 00:23:29,102
I'm the man
that can fill it.
324
00:23:29,102 --> 00:23:31,604
It's disgraceful
what they're doing
to you, Billy.
325
00:23:31,604 --> 00:23:34,605
You may not know it,
but you've got
plenty of friends,
326
00:23:34,605 --> 00:23:36,605
and I'm speaking
for all of them.
327
00:23:36,605 --> 00:23:40,105
Give us the word, and--
I'm sorry, Frank, but politics
and the army don't mix.
328
00:23:40,105 --> 00:23:44,608
All right, if you can't
tolerate politics in the army,
how about outside the army?
329
00:23:44,608 --> 00:23:48,108
Why don't you quit
and run for the Senate?
Wisconsin would elect you.
330
00:23:48,108 --> 00:23:50,109
You could take
your father's old seat.
331
00:23:50,109 --> 00:23:53,109
He was a great senator,
and you'd be
every bit as good.
332
00:23:53,109 --> 00:23:56,111
With you in the Senate
and me in the House,
333
00:23:56,111 --> 00:23:59,112
we'd squeeze an air service
out of them that'd
blacken the sky with planes.
334
00:23:59,112 --> 00:24:01,112
I'm not a politician,
Frank.
335
00:24:01,112 --> 00:24:04,614
I don't want to
turn the air service
into a political football.
336
00:24:04,614 --> 00:24:07,615
Besides, how would I look
in a winged collar
and a frock coat?
337
00:24:07,615 --> 00:24:09,616
I'd look great,
wouldn't I?
338
00:24:09,616 --> 00:24:12,617
Billy Mitchell,
I don't know why
I bother with you.
339
00:24:12,617 --> 00:24:15,618
You won't do anything
that makes sense.
We're both professional men.
340
00:24:15,618 --> 00:24:18,618
You work by your rules.
Let me work by mine.
Some rules.
341
00:24:18,618 --> 00:24:22,119
It's the same set of rules
that has your boys falling out
of the sky in flaming coffins.
342
00:24:22,119 --> 00:24:24,119
They're dying
by those rules.
343
00:24:25,120 --> 00:24:27,621
But at least
they go quick.
344
00:24:27,621 --> 00:24:30,622
You're just
sitting around here
rotting away.
345
00:24:30,622 --> 00:24:34,122
[ Chuckles ]
I must be too stupid
to understand the military mind.
346
00:24:34,122 --> 00:24:36,624
I guess you have to be
born with one.
347
00:24:36,624 --> 00:24:38,625
[ Door Opens,
Closes ]
348
00:24:41,125 --> 00:24:43,627
Well...
349
00:24:43,627 --> 00:24:45,627
so long, Billy.
350
00:24:45,627 --> 00:24:47,627
Don't get
writer's cramp.
351
00:24:55,630 --> 00:24:58,631
Sergeant,
cancel my reservation
to Milwaukee.
352
00:24:58,631 --> 00:25:02,131
Yes, sir.
Check the train schedules
to Washington, D.C.
353
00:25:02,131 --> 00:25:04,133
I'm taking my leave
there.
354
00:25:25,639 --> 00:25:27,139
Good afternoon, sir.
355
00:25:27,640 --> 00:25:29,641
How do things look
today?
Not very good, I'm afraid.
356
00:25:31,141 --> 00:25:33,141
Now, listen here.
357
00:25:33,141 --> 00:25:36,142
For two weeks
I've been trying
to see General Pershing,
358
00:25:36,142 --> 00:25:40,644
and for two weeks you've been
telling me to come around again
in a couple of days.
359
00:25:42,644 --> 00:25:45,645
I want
a definite appointment
with the general,
360
00:25:45,645 --> 00:25:48,146
and I want to
talk to him today.
361
00:25:48,146 --> 00:25:51,147
I'm sorry, sir.
General Pershing
has been very busy.
362
00:25:51,147 --> 00:25:55,149
If I may suggest you try
some other department--
You told me that before.
363
00:25:55,149 --> 00:25:57,149
And I've tried.
364
00:25:57,149 --> 00:25:59,150
They've all referred me
back here.
365
00:25:59,150 --> 00:26:01,651
Gen. Pershing
is the only one
who can help me.
366
00:26:02,151 --> 00:26:04,652
Colonel, a great many people
want to see the general.
367
00:26:05,152 --> 00:26:07,653
You must realize his time
is extremely valuable.
368
00:26:07,653 --> 00:26:11,654
I'm here to try to
save lives, not time.
369
00:26:11,654 --> 00:26:14,655
And if you'll forgive me
for saying so, Colonel,
370
00:26:14,655 --> 00:26:19,657
I think the lives of flyers
are equally as important
as the general's time.
371
00:26:19,657 --> 00:26:24,157
Gen. Pershing has an important
staff meeting scheduled
for the remainder of the day.
372
00:26:27,158 --> 00:26:29,159
Thank you, Colonel.
373
00:26:29,159 --> 00:26:31,159
You're welcome, sir.
374
00:26:48,165 --> 00:26:50,166
Hello,
General Pershing.
375
00:26:50,166 --> 00:26:52,166
I'm glad
I ran into you.
376
00:26:52,166 --> 00:26:55,167
I have nothing
to say to you, Billy.
377
00:27:09,672 --> 00:27:11,672
[ Doorbell Buzzes ]
378
00:27:19,675 --> 00:27:21,676
Billy!
379
00:27:21,676 --> 00:27:23,677
Hello, Margaret.
380
00:27:26,678 --> 00:27:29,678
Well, there's been
a few improvements.
381
00:27:30,679 --> 00:27:32,679
Including you.
You're prettier than ever.
382
00:27:32,679 --> 00:27:35,680
How's Zach?
He's fine.
He'll be home later.
383
00:27:35,680 --> 00:27:38,681
Oh, my, it's good
to see you again.
We've missed you.
384
00:27:38,681 --> 00:27:40,682
And needed you.
385
00:27:40,682 --> 00:27:43,182
I'll set another place.
Can't stay for dinner.
386
00:27:43,182 --> 00:27:46,684
I have to catch a train
for Texas.
We heard you were in Washington.
387
00:27:46,684 --> 00:27:51,185
I tried to drop around sooner,
but I couldn't
get off the flypaper.
388
00:27:51,185 --> 00:27:56,186
I hope our army
is as invincible in the field
as it is in its offices.
389
00:27:56,186 --> 00:27:58,187
Yes, I know.
390
00:27:58,187 --> 00:28:00,688
Zach's been after
the navy department...
391
00:28:00,688 --> 00:28:02,688
about theShenandoah.
392
00:28:02,688 --> 00:28:05,690
They want him
to take it
to Detroit,
393
00:28:05,690 --> 00:28:07,691
to a state fair.
394
00:28:07,691 --> 00:28:10,691
Is that old river cow
still around?
[ Door Opening ]
395
00:28:11,191 --> 00:28:12,692
Hi, honey.
Hello, darling.
396
00:28:13,191 --> 00:28:14,693
Billy!
397
00:28:15,193 --> 00:28:17,694
Gee, I'm glad to see you.
I called the club.
How are you?
398
00:28:18,193 --> 00:28:20,194
You're looking
great.
Feeling fine.
399
00:28:20,694 --> 00:28:23,194
Except for a couple
of sore feet
and a slightly sore head.
400
00:28:23,695 --> 00:28:25,696
Yeah, I heard.
It's a shame.
401
00:28:26,196 --> 00:28:28,697
How do you happen
to be home so early, Zach?
402
00:28:29,197 --> 00:28:30,698
Orders came through.
403
00:28:32,198 --> 00:28:34,198
What orders?
404
00:28:34,198 --> 00:28:37,199
We're taking theShenandoahup
in the morning.
Oh, no!
405
00:28:37,199 --> 00:28:39,701
It'll be all right, honey.
Don't worry.
406
00:28:39,701 --> 00:28:42,702
But you said you wouldn't
take her up again.
I did everything I could.
407
00:28:42,702 --> 00:28:45,703
I kept arguing
till the order came through.
You can't stop now.
408
00:28:45,703 --> 00:28:49,203
You said you'd never take
her up this time of year.
Honey, I've got my orders.
409
00:28:49,203 --> 00:28:52,204
I'd understand
if it were a war
or even a maneuver,
410
00:28:52,204 --> 00:28:54,705
but they're
just doing it
for publicity.
411
00:28:54,705 --> 00:28:57,706
The publicity's
supposed to make Congress
vote us money.
412
00:28:57,706 --> 00:29:00,707
Please tell him not to go.
You're the only one
he'll listen to.
413
00:29:00,707 --> 00:29:03,208
Margaret, please--
Don't worry about it,
Margaret.
414
00:29:03,208 --> 00:29:06,209
It's a lousy balloon,
but it'll have
a good crew aboard...
415
00:29:06,209 --> 00:29:08,710
and a good skipper.
416
00:29:08,710 --> 00:29:13,211
Besides, if the navy's
not worrying about it,
why should you?
417
00:29:14,711 --> 00:29:16,712
Look, I've got
to run now.
418
00:29:16,712 --> 00:29:19,713
I'll be back for another
crack at Washington
in a few months,
419
00:29:19,713 --> 00:29:23,214
and we'll-- we'll have
a real reunion then, hmm?
420
00:29:23,214 --> 00:29:25,715
Do you have
a car outside?
No.
421
00:29:25,715 --> 00:29:27,716
I'll help you
flag a cab.
422
00:29:27,716 --> 00:29:30,216
Good-bye,
Margaret.
423
00:29:30,216 --> 00:29:32,717
[ Zach ]
Be right back, honey.
[ Door Opens ]
424
00:29:36,719 --> 00:29:38,719
How bad is
theShenandoah?
425
00:29:40,720 --> 00:29:43,220
In this weather,
it's a deathtrap.
426
00:29:43,220 --> 00:29:46,722
Then why do you
take it up?
I've got my orders.
427
00:29:46,722 --> 00:29:50,239
You could disobey them.
Are you
out of your mind?
428
00:29:50,239 --> 00:29:52,240
No.
429
00:29:52,240 --> 00:29:55,741
But you are, if you
follow orders that send you
and your crew to your deaths.
430
00:29:55,741 --> 00:29:57,742
Billy, you know
better than that.
431
00:29:57,742 --> 00:30:01,744
If I refuse to go up,
then I'm relieved of command
and get a general court.
432
00:30:01,744 --> 00:30:04,244
Someone else takes her up.
What have I accomplished?
433
00:30:04,244 --> 00:30:08,245
At least you'll have
brought attention to the fact
that the flight is unsafe.
434
00:30:08,245 --> 00:30:12,246
That isn't the point.
Drawing attention to it
isn't gonna save the men.
435
00:30:12,246 --> 00:30:16,247
And I'm better qualified
to fly my ship than
any replacement would be.
436
00:30:16,247 --> 00:30:18,248
Zach, don't you see?
437
00:30:18,248 --> 00:30:20,249
If you refuse to take
that thing up,
438
00:30:20,249 --> 00:30:23,249
there'll be
such an unholy row
that it might never take off.
439
00:30:23,249 --> 00:30:25,251
Yeah, maybe.
440
00:30:25,251 --> 00:30:27,251
But why should I
stick my neck out...
441
00:30:27,251 --> 00:30:30,252
on the improbable chance
that they might
ground the ship?
442
00:30:30,252 --> 00:30:33,753
No, it doesn't make sense.
What's your neck compared to
the whole future of aviation?
443
00:30:33,753 --> 00:30:37,755
How much are you doing
for the future of aviation
buried in Texas?
444
00:30:37,755 --> 00:30:39,755
Never mind about me.
445
00:30:39,755 --> 00:30:41,756
We're talking
about you.
Mm-hmm.
446
00:30:41,756 --> 00:30:43,756
Well, there's not much
I could do...
447
00:30:43,756 --> 00:30:46,257
if I were court-martialed
and dismissed
from the service.
448
00:30:46,257 --> 00:30:48,258
There'll be
no service left...
449
00:30:48,258 --> 00:30:50,759
unless people know
how bad things are,
450
00:30:50,759 --> 00:30:52,760
unless it's shown to them.
451
00:30:52,760 --> 00:30:54,760
You must think that over.
452
00:30:54,760 --> 00:30:57,761
I don't have to
think it over.
I've got my orders.
453
00:30:57,761 --> 00:30:59,762
This flight
has been studied out.
454
00:30:59,762 --> 00:31:01,762
They're taking
a calculated risk.
455
00:31:02,262 --> 00:31:04,262
"Calculated risk"?
Uh--
456
00:31:06,764 --> 00:31:09,765
You're staking
the lives of your crew...
457
00:31:10,265 --> 00:31:13,266
to protect your career
in the navy.
458
00:31:35,773 --> 00:31:37,789
Oh, hello, Billy.
459
00:31:37,789 --> 00:31:39,790
Sit down.
Sit down.
460
00:31:39,790 --> 00:31:41,791
Terrible thing,
thisShenandoahbusiness.
461
00:31:41,791 --> 00:31:43,792
It's all over
the front pages.
462
00:31:43,792 --> 00:31:45,792
Makes all the services
look bad.
463
00:31:45,792 --> 00:31:48,293
Tough enough
getting recruits
as it is.
464
00:31:49,294 --> 00:31:52,295
What did you want to
see me about, Billy?
465
00:31:52,295 --> 00:31:54,296
I request
the general's
permission...
466
00:31:54,296 --> 00:31:57,796
to attend the funeral
of Cmdr. Zachary Lansdowne
at Arlington Cemetery.
467
00:31:57,796 --> 00:32:00,797
Was he a friend of yours?
A close friend, sir.
468
00:32:00,797 --> 00:32:02,797
Why, sure, sure.
Go ahead.
469
00:32:02,797 --> 00:32:04,799
Emergency leave
granted.
470
00:32:04,799 --> 00:32:06,799
Thank you, sir.
471
00:32:10,800 --> 00:32:12,800
Oh, wait a minute, Billy.
472
00:32:12,800 --> 00:32:15,301
You're one of
those flyboys yourself.
473
00:32:15,301 --> 00:32:18,303
I don't know
how headquarters
is reacting to this.
474
00:32:18,303 --> 00:32:20,803
Public opinion may be
running very high.
475
00:32:20,803 --> 00:32:22,804
Reporters running
all over the place...
476
00:32:22,804 --> 00:32:25,306
covering the funeral
and asking questions.
477
00:32:25,306 --> 00:32:28,306
Better let me
get a confirmation
from Washington...
478
00:32:28,306 --> 00:32:30,307
before you take off.
479
00:32:30,307 --> 00:32:34,308
May I ask
the general's permission
to withdraw my request, sir?
480
00:32:34,308 --> 00:32:37,309
You mean you don't want me
to get a confirmation?
481
00:32:37,309 --> 00:32:39,309
No, sir.
482
00:32:39,309 --> 00:32:41,310
Whatever you say.
483
00:32:41,310 --> 00:32:43,310
Thank you, sir.
484
00:32:45,812 --> 00:32:47,812
???? [ Radio:
"Tea for Two" ]
485
00:32:47,812 --> 00:32:51,813
Heard the news? Those planes
making the nonstop to Mexico
are reported lost.
486
00:32:51,813 --> 00:32:53,813
[ Tuning Frequencies ]
Where'd you get that?
487
00:32:53,813 --> 00:32:56,814
My gunny says he heard it
over the radio.
488
00:32:56,814 --> 00:32:59,815
How does he know they're lost?
He didn't know.
That's all he told me.
489
00:32:59,815 --> 00:33:01,816
Wait a minute.
[ Tuning Continues ]
490
00:33:01,816 --> 00:33:03,816
[ Announcer ]
We interrupt
this broadcast...
491
00:33:03,816 --> 00:33:05,818
to bring you
a news bulletin.
492
00:33:05,818 --> 00:33:08,319
In the greatest disaster
in aviation history,
493
00:33:08,319 --> 00:33:11,819
six planes en route from
San Diego to Fort Huachuca
have crashed.
494
00:33:11,819 --> 00:33:15,321
The flight was composed
of members of the famous
Billy Mitchell squadron...
495
00:33:15,321 --> 00:33:18,322
which, in 1921,
bombed and sank
the battleshipOstfriesland.
496
00:33:18,322 --> 00:33:20,322
Ground parties
have been dispatched...
497
00:33:20,322 --> 00:33:23,324
to the rugged
mountain area near
the Mexican border...
498
00:33:23,324 --> 00:33:25,324
to search for
possible survivors.
499
00:33:25,324 --> 00:33:28,825
We now return you
to our program.
???? [ Orchestra ]
500
00:33:34,577 --> 00:33:36,577
I've asked you gentlemen
of the press to come here...
501
00:33:36,577 --> 00:33:39,078
because I want to
make a statement.
502
00:33:42,080 --> 00:33:45,081
Flying is a very
dangerous business,
503
00:33:46,580 --> 00:33:50,582
and a normal
amount of accidents
are to be expected.
504
00:33:52,083 --> 00:33:55,584
But these
recent disasters...
505
00:33:55,584 --> 00:33:58,085
of theShenandoah...
506
00:33:58,085 --> 00:34:02,086
and the planes of the army
of the Mexican flight...
507
00:34:02,586 --> 00:34:05,087
are outside the range
of normal accidents.
508
00:34:07,087 --> 00:34:10,088
I would not be keeping faith
with my dead comrades...
509
00:34:10,088 --> 00:34:12,089
if I kept quiet
any longer.
510
00:34:13,589 --> 00:34:15,590
These--
These accidents...
511
00:34:15,590 --> 00:34:18,091
are the direct result of--
512
00:34:19,591 --> 00:34:21,092
of incompetence,
513
00:34:21,591 --> 00:34:23,592
criminal negligence...
514
00:34:23,592 --> 00:34:29,095
and the almost
treasonable administration
of our national defense...
515
00:34:29,095 --> 00:34:31,095
by the navy...
516
00:34:31,095 --> 00:34:33,596
and the war department.
517
00:34:35,096 --> 00:34:37,596
That is my statement.
518
00:34:37,596 --> 00:34:39,597
Well, that's
sure somethin'.
519
00:34:39,597 --> 00:34:41,598
Is this off the cuff?
You want us to print it?
520
00:34:42,098 --> 00:34:43,599
It's a statement
for publication.
521
00:34:44,099 --> 00:34:46,100
Baby, is this gonna
blow some brass tops off.
522
00:34:46,100 --> 00:34:48,100
Would you mind
initialing that?
523
00:34:48,100 --> 00:34:50,101
Colonel, my editor's
an ex-army man.
524
00:34:50,601 --> 00:34:53,102
He may call you
to verify this.
Do you mind?
No.
525
00:34:53,602 --> 00:34:56,103
I don't know anything about
army procedure, Colonel,
526
00:34:56,603 --> 00:34:58,103
but couldn't you
be court-martialed for this?
527
00:34:58,603 --> 00:35:00,604
That's exactly
what I want.
528
00:35:38,116 --> 00:35:40,616
Colonel Mitchell?
529
00:35:40,616 --> 00:35:42,617
Major.
530
00:35:42,617 --> 00:35:44,618
By order of
the secretary of war,
531
00:35:45,119 --> 00:35:47,119
you've been placed
in arrest, sir.
532
00:35:47,119 --> 00:35:50,120
I've been ordered to
serve on you the charge sheet
and court-martial papers.
533
00:35:50,120 --> 00:35:52,121
Thank you.
534
00:35:52,121 --> 00:35:55,122
I'm instructed to tell you
that you're restricted
to the Washington area.
535
00:35:55,122 --> 00:35:58,123
You will remember at all times
that you are in arrest
and deport yourself accordingly.
536
00:35:58,123 --> 00:36:00,123
I understand, Major.
537
00:36:00,123 --> 00:36:03,124
Report to the office
of the adjutant general
by noon tomorrow,
538
00:36:03,124 --> 00:36:04,624
where your quarters
will be.
539
00:36:05,125 --> 00:36:07,125
Is that all?
Yes, sir.
540
00:36:07,625 --> 00:36:11,127
Now that that's over,
will you gentlemen join me
in a cup of coffee?
541
00:36:12,627 --> 00:36:14,627
Thank you, sir.
I really don't quite--
542
00:36:15,128 --> 00:36:17,128
That's okay, Major.
Carry on.
543
00:36:33,134 --> 00:36:34,633
Mitchell.
544
00:36:36,135 --> 00:36:38,135
Good morning,
General Guthrie.
545
00:36:38,135 --> 00:36:41,636
I don't suppose
it's occurred to you
to resign.
546
00:36:41,636 --> 00:36:44,636
Resign under fire?
Not a chance, sir.
547
00:36:44,636 --> 00:36:47,137
I must say
I'm sorry, Mitchell.
548
00:36:47,137 --> 00:36:49,139
Sorry for the army.
549
00:36:57,508 --> 00:36:58,508
Good afternoon,
Colonel Mitchell.
Hello.
550
00:36:58,508 --> 00:37:00,509
I'll send it
right up.
551
00:37:03,009 --> 00:37:07,010
Welcome back. It's good
to see you again, sir.
Thank you, Phil.
552
00:37:07,010 --> 00:37:10,011
Can I have
my old room?
It's ready for you, sir.
553
00:37:12,011 --> 00:37:15,013
Excuse me.
You're Col. Mitchell,
aren't you?
Yes.
554
00:37:15,013 --> 00:37:17,013
I'm Lt. Col. White.
555
00:37:17,013 --> 00:37:20,014
I've been appointed
your defense counsel
by the judge advocate general.
556
00:37:20,014 --> 00:37:23,015
I'm glad to see you.
Come up to my room.
We can talk there.
557
00:37:23,015 --> 00:37:25,016
Fine.
558
00:37:29,017 --> 00:37:31,519
I assume, sir,
that you've been served.
559
00:37:31,519 --> 00:37:33,519
Got them right here.
560
00:37:33,519 --> 00:37:37,020
I don't think there'll
be much for you to do.
It's an open-and-shut case.
561
00:37:37,020 --> 00:37:39,021
Is it?
562
00:37:42,022 --> 00:37:44,022
Oh, yes, I'm guilty.
563
00:37:44,022 --> 00:37:46,023
Definitely.
564
00:37:46,023 --> 00:37:48,023
You'll plead guilty?
565
00:37:48,023 --> 00:37:52,525
No, I guess I'll have to
plead not guilty
if I want my day in court.
566
00:37:55,025 --> 00:37:58,026
You mean, you, uh--
you did it
deliberately?
567
00:37:58,026 --> 00:38:01,027
I had to make somebody
listen to me.
568
00:38:02,028 --> 00:38:04,529
You chose the hard way,
Colonel.
569
00:38:04,529 --> 00:38:07,029
I know it,
and I haven't
got a chance,
570
00:38:07,029 --> 00:38:10,030
but I want to
go through with it
anyway.
571
00:38:10,030 --> 00:38:12,532
Sound crazy,
don't I?
No, sir.
572
00:38:12,532 --> 00:38:15,032
No, I, uh,
I think I understand.
573
00:38:15,032 --> 00:38:17,533
Have the members
of the court
been announced?
574
00:38:17,533 --> 00:38:20,533
Just came through.
I saw General Guthrie
downstairs.
575
00:38:20,533 --> 00:38:22,535
So did I.
576
00:38:24,034 --> 00:38:26,536
What does he
have to do with it?
577
00:38:26,536 --> 00:38:29,537
He's been appointed
the president of the court.
578
00:38:32,538 --> 00:38:35,038
Who are
the other members?
[ Chuckles ]
579
00:38:35,038 --> 00:38:37,539
A regular who's who
of the army.
580
00:38:40,040 --> 00:38:43,041
"Maj. Gen. George L. Irwin,
Gen. Slade, Gen. Graves,
581
00:38:43,041 --> 00:38:46,041
Gen. Ford.,
Gen. Douglas MacArthur,
Gen. Bolling."
582
00:38:47,543 --> 00:38:50,043
There's not
a flying officer
among them.
583
00:38:50,043 --> 00:38:53,044
Sir, have you considered
taking on a civilian counsel?
584
00:38:53,044 --> 00:38:56,045
You're entitled to one,
you know.
585
00:38:56,045 --> 00:38:58,045
Could use
the heavy artillery, huh?
586
00:38:58,546 --> 00:39:02,046
Well, honestly, sir,
I don't think we can afford
to overlook any possibility.
587
00:39:02,547 --> 00:39:04,548
Big name?
The biggest possible.
588
00:39:10,550 --> 00:39:13,551
I've never had to go
outside the army before.
589
00:39:26,054 --> 00:39:29,555
Why, Col. Mitchell!
It's so good to see you
again, sir.
590
00:39:29,555 --> 00:39:32,556
You look as well
as ever, Mrs. Sturges.
Is Congressman Reid in?
591
00:39:32,556 --> 00:39:35,057
Yes, he is.
Go right in.
Thank you.
592
00:39:36,558 --> 00:39:39,058
Hello, Frank.
593
00:39:39,058 --> 00:39:42,060
Billy! It's about time
you showed up.
594
00:39:42,060 --> 00:39:45,060
Well, you finally did it.
You kicked 'em
where it really hurts.
595
00:39:45,060 --> 00:39:47,061
I'm proud of you.
596
00:39:47,061 --> 00:39:50,562
I hope you're here
for the reason I think.
Gonna let me handle this?
597
00:39:50,562 --> 00:39:53,062
You're stuck with me.
I've been
counting on it.
598
00:39:53,062 --> 00:39:57,064
Been preparing since you
got in your jam. I'm ready
to go to court tomorrow.
599
00:39:57,064 --> 00:40:00,064
Let's see what section
they've thrown at you.
600
00:40:00,064 --> 00:40:03,065
I thought so.
Article 96,
the catch-all clause.
601
00:40:03,065 --> 00:40:07,067
Covers everything
from kicking a horse
to kissing a sergeant.
602
00:40:07,067 --> 00:40:10,568
"Conduct prejudicial to
the good of the service,"
my eye!
603
00:40:10,568 --> 00:40:12,570
This is the way
I see it.
604
00:40:12,570 --> 00:40:16,570
We won't wait for the
court-martial to start in on us.
We'll open up on them first.
605
00:40:16,570 --> 00:40:21,071
We'll call a press conference,
we'll issue a statement,
blast the navy out of the water.
606
00:40:21,572 --> 00:40:23,572
Then we'll take on
the general staff
of the army--
607
00:40:24,072 --> 00:40:25,573
No, Frank, no.
What's the matter?
608
00:40:26,073 --> 00:40:28,574
I don't like it.
I don't want it.
I won't fight that way.
609
00:40:29,074 --> 00:40:31,575
This is what
you've been fighting for
all these years--
610
00:40:32,075 --> 00:40:34,576
a chance to get recognition
for the air service,
611
00:40:35,076 --> 00:40:37,577
to tell the people about
the importance of air power.
612
00:40:37,577 --> 00:40:40,578
You haven't changed
your mind about that,
have you?
613
00:40:40,578 --> 00:40:43,579
No, I haven't.
I want a new air program
and a new air service.
614
00:40:43,579 --> 00:40:46,580
But I don't want
to wreck the army to get it,
or the navy either.
615
00:40:46,580 --> 00:40:51,581
I don't understand you, Billy.
In a fight like this,
it's all or nothing.
616
00:40:52,582 --> 00:40:54,582
[ Sighs ]
617
00:40:54,582 --> 00:40:57,583
I don't see it that way.
I see.
618
00:40:57,583 --> 00:41:00,585
You want to kick
the army in the pants,
but do it politely.
619
00:41:00,585 --> 00:41:03,586
All I want is a chance to tell
the whole tragic story...
620
00:41:04,085 --> 00:41:05,586
of this country's
air defense.
621
00:41:06,086 --> 00:41:07,587
All I want
is my day in court.
622
00:41:08,086 --> 00:41:09,587
And that's exactly
what you'll get--
623
00:41:10,087 --> 00:41:12,588
one day, with Gen. James Guthrie
as president of the court.
624
00:41:13,088 --> 00:41:14,589
Have you heard
about Guthrie?
625
00:41:15,088 --> 00:41:18,089
What do you think I do
around Washington,
warm a chair?
626
00:41:18,089 --> 00:41:20,090
What can I do?
627
00:41:20,090 --> 00:41:23,592
Challenge him for prejudice
and kick him off the court.
628
00:41:23,592 --> 00:41:28,093
I'll not be a party to anything
that casts aspersions
on the integrity of an officer.
629
00:41:28,093 --> 00:41:30,594
[ Scoffs ]
The old school tie, huh?
630
00:41:30,594 --> 00:41:34,595
The army took me in
when I was a raw kid.
It taught me everything I know.
631
00:41:34,595 --> 00:41:37,095
I'm not at war
with the army.
632
00:41:37,095 --> 00:41:40,096
Billy Mitchell,
you're not talking
like your father's son.
633
00:41:40,096 --> 00:41:43,598
That great old man would be
fighting with everything he had
to get a fair trial.
634
00:41:44,098 --> 00:41:47,599
I'm being court-martialed
by officers of
the United States Army.
635
00:41:48,099 --> 00:41:50,600
I'll get a fair trial.
636
00:41:51,100 --> 00:41:54,101
Unless you believe that, Frank,
don't take the case.
637
00:41:56,101 --> 00:41:59,103
All right.
You've handcuffed me,
but I'll try to get you off.
638
00:41:59,603 --> 00:42:01,604
If I do,
it'll be quite a trick.
639
00:42:41,999 --> 00:42:44,1000
This looks like
a warehouse.
Itwasa warehouse.
640
00:42:44,1000 --> 00:42:47,502
Last night
they converted it
into a courtroom.
641
00:43:09,508 --> 00:43:11,509
[ Photographer ]
Just one second,
Colonel, please.
642
00:43:11,509 --> 00:43:13,509
Thank you.
643
00:43:15,010 --> 00:43:18,511
Good morning, Colonel Moreland.
I see we're tangling again.
644
00:43:18,511 --> 00:43:22,011
Yes.
Well, good luck.
645
00:43:26,513 --> 00:43:29,013
It's a fine place
to hide a trial.
646
00:43:29,013 --> 00:43:32,015
I would say they want
as little public attention
as possible...
647
00:43:32,015 --> 00:43:34,516
for your day in court.
648
00:43:34,516 --> 00:43:38,017
Colonel Mitchell?
My name is Carlson.
649
00:43:38,017 --> 00:43:40,017
I'm reporter
for this court.
650
00:43:40,017 --> 00:43:42,518
George Carlson.
Yes?
651
00:43:42,518 --> 00:43:45,019
My son served
under you.
652
00:43:45,019 --> 00:43:49,020
He was shot down
over the Argonne.
653
00:43:49,020 --> 00:43:51,521
Do you mean
Glen Carlson?
Yes, sir.
654
00:43:53,021 --> 00:43:55,022
Well, I'm very glad
to meet you.
655
00:43:55,022 --> 00:43:57,022
Glen was a fine boy.
656
00:43:57,022 --> 00:44:00,023
Looked a lot like you,
as a matter of fact.
657
00:44:00,023 --> 00:44:03,024
I've always wanted
to thank you for
the letter you wrote.
658
00:44:03,024 --> 00:44:05,526
It was such
a great comfort
to us.
659
00:44:05,526 --> 00:44:07,526
I wish I could've
done more.
660
00:44:07,526 --> 00:44:10,527
Well, I'm sorry
about all this.
661
00:44:10,527 --> 00:44:13,028
I'd just like to say...
662
00:44:13,028 --> 00:44:15,028
Stand up when
the court enters!
663
00:44:15,028 --> 00:44:17,028
good luck.
664
00:44:35,535 --> 00:44:38,536
The court
will come to order.
665
00:44:38,536 --> 00:44:40,537
Colonel Moreland.
666
00:44:40,537 --> 00:44:43,538
The prosecution is
ready to proceed
with the trial...
667
00:44:43,538 --> 00:44:46,539
ofThe United States
against William Mitchell,
Colonel.
668
00:44:46,539 --> 00:44:49,039
Whom does the accused
wish to introduce
as counsel?
669
00:44:49,039 --> 00:44:52,040
As counsel,
the Honorable Frank R. Reid,
670
00:44:52,040 --> 00:44:55,041
and as associate counsel
the regularly appointed
defense counsel,
671
00:44:55,041 --> 00:44:57,042
Lt. Col. Herbert A. White.
672
00:45:00,043 --> 00:45:02,544
Before this court
is sworn,
673
00:45:02,544 --> 00:45:07,546
I would like to state
that it will be conducted
as a military tribunal.
674
00:45:07,546 --> 00:45:11,046
I expect
the fullest cooperation
from both sides...
675
00:45:11,046 --> 00:45:15,047
to bring it to
the speediest possible
conclusion.
676
00:45:15,047 --> 00:45:18,548
The trial judge advocate
will now swear in the court
and read the charge.
677
00:45:18,548 --> 00:45:21,666
"Further, that the accused
did conduct himself...
678
00:45:22,166 --> 00:45:24,667
"to the prejudice
of good order
and military discipline,
679
00:45:25,167 --> 00:45:26,668
"and in a way
to bring discredit upon
the military service.
680
00:45:27,168 --> 00:45:28,819
"Further, that the accused,
681
00:45:28,819 --> 00:45:31,820
"with intent to discredit
the administration
of the war department,
682
00:45:31,820 --> 00:45:36,321
did make a statement highly
contemptuous and disrespectful
of said administration."
683
00:45:36,321 --> 00:45:39,823
Colonel Mitchell,
you have heard the charge
and the specifications.
684
00:45:39,823 --> 00:45:41,823
How do you plead?
685
00:45:42,823 --> 00:45:44,824
Not guilty.
686
00:45:44,824 --> 00:45:47,824
[ Spectators Murmuring ]
The prosecution
may proceed.
687
00:45:47,824 --> 00:45:51,325
The prosecution
does not desire to make
any opening statement.
688
00:45:51,325 --> 00:45:53,326
If the court please,
689
00:45:53,326 --> 00:45:55,827
I wish to withhold
my opening argument...
690
00:45:56,327 --> 00:45:57,827
until the government
states its case.
691
00:45:58,327 --> 00:46:00,829
However, we intend to
show that Col. Mitchell's
statement was justified...
692
00:46:00,829 --> 00:46:03,329
by the deplorable conditions
in the army and navy.
693
00:46:03,830 --> 00:46:05,830
Justification
is not an issue here.
694
00:46:06,330 --> 00:46:07,831
This is a very simple case.
695
00:46:08,330 --> 00:46:11,832
Did or did not the accused
make the newspaper statements
attributed to him?
696
00:46:11,832 --> 00:46:15,333
- If he did, he's guilty.
- Not if the statement's true.
We want a--
697
00:46:15,333 --> 00:46:19,334
You will have an opportunity
to develop that point later,
Mr. Reid.
698
00:46:19,334 --> 00:46:22,335
The trial judge advocate
will call the first witness.
699
00:46:22,335 --> 00:46:25,336
The prosecution
calls Carl Tuttle.
700
00:46:27,337 --> 00:46:29,337
Carl Tuttle!
701
00:46:29,337 --> 00:46:32,338
Mr. Tuttle, are you
the author of this article...
702
00:46:32,338 --> 00:46:35,339
which contains
an alleged statement
by the accused?
703
00:46:38,840 --> 00:46:40,842
Yes, sir, I am.
704
00:46:40,842 --> 00:46:43,842
At this time I ask
that this newspaper
be received...
705
00:46:43,842 --> 00:46:45,843
as the prosecution's
exhibit number one.
706
00:46:45,843 --> 00:46:47,844
It will be
so received.
707
00:46:47,844 --> 00:46:49,844
Now, Mr. Tuttle,
708
00:46:49,844 --> 00:46:53,845
who gave you this statement
which later appeared in
the columns of your newspaper?
709
00:46:53,845 --> 00:46:55,346
Col. Mitchell, sir.
710
00:46:55,346 --> 00:46:58,347
And it was printed exactly
as he gave it to you?
Yes, sir.
711
00:46:58,347 --> 00:47:00,848
Where did Col. Mitchell
give you this statement?
712
00:47:01,348 --> 00:47:02,848
In his office
in Fort Sam Houston.
713
00:47:03,348 --> 00:47:04,849
How did you happen
to be there?
714
00:47:05,349 --> 00:47:08,851
Col. Mitchell telephoned
my editor and asked him
to send over a reporter.
715
00:47:08,851 --> 00:47:10,851
No further questions.
716
00:47:10,851 --> 00:47:13,351
Does the defense desire
to cross-examine?
717
00:47:14,351 --> 00:47:16,352
Mr. Tuttle,
718
00:47:16,352 --> 00:47:18,353
did your paper
make any effort...
719
00:47:18,353 --> 00:47:21,354
to find out the truth
or the untruth of
Col. Mitchell's statement?
720
00:47:21,354 --> 00:47:23,354
Yes, sir.
I was put on the story.
721
00:47:23,354 --> 00:47:25,355
What did you do?
722
00:47:25,355 --> 00:47:28,356
I called up 50 officers
in the various branches
of the service...
723
00:47:28,356 --> 00:47:30,356
and asked their opinion--
724
00:47:30,356 --> 00:47:32,357
Objection.
This is hearsay.
Sustained.
725
00:47:32,357 --> 00:47:35,358
Did the 50 officers
you interviewed all agree...
726
00:47:35,358 --> 00:47:39,360
that the conditions
in the army and the navy,
as described by Col. Mitchell--
727
00:47:39,360 --> 00:47:41,360
Objection!
728
00:47:41,360 --> 00:47:44,361
This is irrelevant
and calls for a conclusion
on the part of the witness.
729
00:47:44,361 --> 00:47:47,862
Sustained.
You must stop when you hear
the court's ruling, Mr. Reid.
730
00:47:47,862 --> 00:47:49,864
I'll put the question
another way, General.
731
00:47:49,864 --> 00:47:52,864
The question
is irrelevant
in any form.
732
00:47:52,864 --> 00:47:56,866
The court directs you
to confine yourself to evidence
permissible under its rulings.
733
00:47:57,365 --> 00:47:59,366
Col. Moreland,
call the next witness.
734
00:48:00,866 --> 00:48:03,367
The prosecution
calls Howard Millikan.
735
00:48:03,868 --> 00:48:08,368
Mr. Millikan, did your paper
receive any letters from
your readers in this matter?
736
00:48:08,368 --> 00:48:10,369
Yes, many.
737
00:48:10,369 --> 00:48:13,370
What would you say
was the general tone
of these letters?
738
00:48:13,370 --> 00:48:15,871
Objection.
Question is irrelevant.
Sustained.
739
00:48:16,371 --> 00:48:17,872
Were your readers
shocked?
740
00:48:18,371 --> 00:48:21,372
What was their feeling
about Col. Mitchell and his
devotion to his country?
741
00:48:21,372 --> 00:48:23,373
Objection.
Question is immaterial.
742
00:48:23,373 --> 00:48:25,874
Do not answer,
Mr. Millikan.
743
00:48:25,874 --> 00:48:28,875
Mr. Reid, my patience
is nearing its end.
744
00:48:28,875 --> 00:48:32,877
My belief
in military justice
is also nearing its end.
745
00:48:32,877 --> 00:48:37,378
We have a right to prove
the defendant was justified
in saying what he did.
746
00:48:37,378 --> 00:48:39,378
In a military court,
Mr. Reid,
747
00:48:39,378 --> 00:48:42,880
there is no justification
for disobedience,
insubordination or treason.
748
00:48:42,880 --> 00:48:44,881
I don't agree,
General.
749
00:48:44,881 --> 00:48:48,382
It's one thing when a man
accuses another of being
a murderer without cause.
750
00:48:48,382 --> 00:48:51,382
- It's something else
when he can prove it.
- I object!
751
00:48:51,382 --> 00:48:53,383
Mr. Reid
is arguing his case.
752
00:48:53,383 --> 00:48:56,884
The issue here is,
did the accused make the
statements attributed to him?
753
00:48:56,884 --> 00:48:59,384
And did he make them
without authority?
754
00:48:59,384 --> 00:49:02,886
On this point,
uncontradicted proof
has been presented.
755
00:49:02,886 --> 00:49:05,887
And on this point,
the prosecution rests.
756
00:49:05,887 --> 00:49:08,388
[ Spectators Murmuring ]
[ Guthrie ]
You may step down.
757
00:49:09,888 --> 00:49:11,889
Is the understanding
of the court correct?
758
00:49:11,889 --> 00:49:13,890
The prosecution has
no further witnesses?
759
00:49:15,390 --> 00:49:17,390
That is correct, sir.
760
00:49:17,390 --> 00:49:19,891
The defense may summon
its first witness.
761
00:49:21,392 --> 00:49:23,392
[ Whispering ]
We got anybody
on deck?
No.
762
00:49:23,392 --> 00:49:25,894
I had no idea
they'd finish so quickly.
763
00:49:25,894 --> 00:49:29,394
If it please the court,
witnesses for the defense
are still en route.
764
00:49:29,394 --> 00:49:31,395
They're not present
in Washington?
765
00:49:31,395 --> 00:49:35,897
The brevity
of the prosecution's case
has upset our timetable.
766
00:49:35,897 --> 00:49:38,898
These witnesses
should be standing by,
Mr. Reid.
767
00:49:38,898 --> 00:49:41,899
That would've been difficult
for most of our witnesses,
768
00:49:41,899 --> 00:49:43,899
because they're officers
in the armed forces...
769
00:49:43,899 --> 00:49:45,900
and need special permission
to leave their posts.
770
00:49:45,900 --> 00:49:48,400
Who are these officers?
771
00:49:49,947 --> 00:49:52,946
"Major H.H. Arnold,
Major--"
Just a moment, Mr. Reid.
772
00:49:53,445 --> 00:49:55,945
What would be the nature
of these witnesses' testimony?
773
00:49:55,945 --> 00:49:59,443
- To prove the truth
of Col. Mitchell's statement.
- The prosecution objects.
774
00:49:59,443 --> 00:50:02,943
The truth or falsity
of Col. Mitchell's statement
is not an issue here.
775
00:50:04,442 --> 00:50:05,942
Was this Major Arnold
present...
776
00:50:06,442 --> 00:50:08,942
when the accused made
the alleged statements
to the press?
777
00:50:08,942 --> 00:50:11,440
- No, sir,
but he'll prove justification.
- Objection.
778
00:50:11,940 --> 00:50:14,939
- The court has already
ruled on that issue.
- Sustained.
779
00:50:14,939 --> 00:50:16,939
Who are
your other witnesses,
Mr. Reid?
780
00:50:16,939 --> 00:50:20,438
"Major Carl Spaatz,
Capt--"
Objection!
781
00:50:20,438 --> 00:50:22,437
May I see that list,
please, Mr. Reid?
782
00:50:28,436 --> 00:50:30,936
"Captain E.V. Rickenbacker,
783
00:50:30,936 --> 00:50:32,935
"Congressman
Fiorello La Guardia,
784
00:50:33,434 --> 00:50:36,433
Admiral William S. Sims"?
785
00:50:36,933 --> 00:50:39,433
Were any of these people
present in Texas
at the stated time?
786
00:50:39,933 --> 00:50:43,431
No, sir, they were not.
Then, I regret to say,
they're inadmissible.
787
00:50:43,932 --> 00:50:45,430
Without them,
I haven't any case.
788
00:50:45,931 --> 00:50:47,430
Then the court
will stand adjourned...
789
00:50:47,930 --> 00:50:49,930
and give you time
to prepare one.
790
00:50:50,430 --> 00:50:52,429
[ Spectators Murmuring ]
791
00:50:57,811 --> 00:51:00,810
What do you think
about the day's doings,
Col. White?
792
00:51:00,810 --> 00:51:02,809
It's court
procedure.
793
00:51:02,809 --> 00:51:05,309
My dear friend,
that's not a court.
794
00:51:05,309 --> 00:51:08,308
A man's allowed to
defend himself in court,
even a triple murderer.
795
00:51:08,308 --> 00:51:10,307
They're operating
under army rules,
Frank.
796
00:51:10,307 --> 00:51:15,306
You stay out of this.
I got to figure out something,
or we're through, licked.
797
00:51:15,306 --> 00:51:17,805
No way of changing
the procedure, Mr. Reid.
798
00:51:17,805 --> 00:51:19,804
You call that
procedure?
[ Chuckles ]
799
00:51:19,804 --> 00:51:23,303
The accused is permitted to
give his name and address,
then off with his head.
800
00:51:23,303 --> 00:51:25,303
We'll get our innings.
801
00:51:25,303 --> 00:51:27,302
We'll get nothing.
802
00:51:27,302 --> 00:51:30,301
You don't have a chance
if they don't let us try to
prove you were justified...
803
00:51:30,301 --> 00:51:32,301
in making
that big pronouncement
of yours.
804
00:51:32,301 --> 00:51:35,300
It's like refusing
to allow a defendant
to present an alibi.
805
00:51:35,300 --> 00:51:38,299
I'll give them
what you call my alibi.
806
00:51:38,299 --> 00:51:42,299
I'll testify and give them
my story in full, for the court
and for the whole country.
807
00:51:42,299 --> 00:51:44,798
And I'll bring up
all the justification
there is.
808
00:51:44,798 --> 00:51:48,796
You're talking through your hat.
You be asked, "Did you make
that statement? Yes or no?"
809
00:51:48,796 --> 00:51:51,296
Am I right, Colonel?
That's right.
810
00:51:52,796 --> 00:51:54,795
Colonel, what do you think
the chances are...
811
00:51:55,294 --> 00:51:57,794
of our getting
one justification witness
into this trial?
812
00:51:58,294 --> 00:52:01,793
Nonexistent.
If they let one on the stand,
they'd have to let them all.
813
00:52:02,293 --> 00:52:05,792
Then I've got to stall
till I can get an idea.
814
00:52:07,292 --> 00:52:10,290
Do you know
what a filibuster is?
815
00:52:10,290 --> 00:52:15,289
When a politician can't
think of anything to say,
he talks.
816
00:52:15,289 --> 00:52:17,288
I'm going home and gargle.
817
00:52:20,288 --> 00:52:23,287
And now,
if the court please,
818
00:52:23,287 --> 00:52:25,786
I ask permission
to read into the record...
819
00:52:25,786 --> 00:52:28,285
newspaper comments
concerning this trial.
820
00:52:29,285 --> 00:52:31,285
These are editorials...
821
00:52:31,285 --> 00:52:34,784
which have been
printed in newspapers
from coast to coast.
822
00:52:34,784 --> 00:52:36,783
I wish at this time
to have them entered...
823
00:52:36,783 --> 00:52:39,283
as evidence
for the accused.
824
00:52:39,283 --> 00:52:41,282
What is your purpose,
Mr. Reid?
825
00:52:41,782 --> 00:52:43,782
Are you seeking to delay
the proceedings
of this court?
826
00:52:43,782 --> 00:52:46,880
I believe public opinion has
a bearing on the deliberation
of this court.
827
00:52:46,880 --> 00:52:49,779
Objection.
Irrelevant
and immaterial.
828
00:52:50,280 --> 00:52:51,780
Sustained.
829
00:52:52,278 --> 00:52:55,778
You are obviously addressing
the ears of the press,
Mr. Reid.
830
00:52:55,778 --> 00:52:58,277
You are instructed to make
your publicity statements...
831
00:52:58,277 --> 00:53:01,277
outside the precincts
of this courtroom.
832
00:53:06,275 --> 00:53:09,273
[ Clears Throat ]
I have here...
833
00:53:09,273 --> 00:53:13,773
a copy of theManual
of Courts-Martial,1921.
834
00:53:13,773 --> 00:53:16,773
It states that under
the procedure governing
trial by court-martial,
835
00:53:16,773 --> 00:53:19,272
a charge having been made
must first be referred...
836
00:53:19,272 --> 00:53:21,771
to the immediate
commanding officer
of the accused,
837
00:53:21,771 --> 00:53:24,270
and, thereafter, the person
who preferred the charges,
838
00:53:24,270 --> 00:53:27,268
together
with available witnesses,
shall appear before him,
839
00:53:27,268 --> 00:53:31,768
and the accused shall then
be given a chance to defend
himself before that officer.
840
00:53:31,768 --> 00:53:33,767
The court is aware
of all that.
841
00:53:33,767 --> 00:53:36,767
You're referring
to paragraph 76-A
of theManual.
842
00:53:36,767 --> 00:53:39,766
Well, if
the trial judge advocate
is aware of that clause,
843
00:53:39,766 --> 00:53:43,264
I ask why this opportunity
was never afforded
to Col. Mitchell.
844
00:53:43,765 --> 00:53:47,764
I ask the name of the officer
who preferred charges
against Col. Mitchell.
845
00:53:47,764 --> 00:53:49,764
That name is not
presently available.
846
00:53:49,764 --> 00:53:52,763
It shouldn't be
so hard to find.
847
00:53:52,763 --> 00:53:55,761
Wouldn't he be Col. Mitchell's
immediate commanding officer
at Fort Sam Houston?
848
00:53:56,262 --> 00:53:59,260
- Not necessarily.
- Then according to
the chain of command,
849
00:53:59,260 --> 00:54:02,760
wouldn't he be the commanding
general of the core area
in which Col. Mitchell served?
850
00:54:02,760 --> 00:54:05,259
That need not be so.
851
00:54:05,759 --> 00:54:09,258
Well, then he'd certainly
be the chief of staff
of the army, wouldn't he?
852
00:54:09,258 --> 00:54:10,757
He would not have to be.
853
00:54:11,257 --> 00:54:14,756
Well,somebodymust have
preferred these charges
against Col. Mitchell.
854
00:54:14,756 --> 00:54:17,755
And since we can't
seem to locate him,
855
00:54:17,755 --> 00:54:20,755
I'm left no alternative
but to name the one officer
in the army...
856
00:54:20,755 --> 00:54:25,253
who's the commander
of every soldier serving
under the American flag.
857
00:54:25,253 --> 00:54:27,253
I name the president
of the United States.
858
00:54:27,253 --> 00:54:29,252
[ Spectators Murmuring,
Talking ]
859
00:54:29,735 --> 00:54:32,235
Order in the court.
860
00:54:32,235 --> 00:54:35,734
For the court's convenience,
I have prepared here
a subpoena...
861
00:54:35,734 --> 00:54:39,733
calling upon President Coolidge
to appear before
this tribunal...
862
00:54:39,733 --> 00:54:43,232
and to testify as to
his personal knowledge
of the facts of this case.
863
00:54:43,232 --> 00:54:46,731
I call upon the court
to issue this subpoena
and have service made upon him.
864
00:54:51,230 --> 00:54:55,229
This will be considered
in closed session.
Court will adjourn.
865
00:54:55,229 --> 00:54:57,728
[ Spectators Chattering ]
866
00:55:01,227 --> 00:55:03,226
[ Man ]
Congratulations, Frank.
Congratulations.
867
00:55:03,226 --> 00:55:05,226
[ Overlapping Dialogue ]
868
00:55:05,725 --> 00:55:08,475
[ Knocking ]
It's open.
869
00:55:09,974 --> 00:55:12,973
Morning.
I'm disappointed.
870
00:55:12,973 --> 00:55:14,972
I thought it would
be President Coolidge.
[ Chuckling ]
871
00:55:15,473 --> 00:55:17,971
Had your breakfast?
Yes, thanks.
872
00:55:17,971 --> 00:55:19,971
They're all
in a dither.
873
00:55:19,971 --> 00:55:22,471
Who's that, Colonel?
The newspaper boys.
874
00:55:22,471 --> 00:55:24,970
That Cal Coolidge thing
has them all agog.
875
00:55:25,470 --> 00:55:27,969
The newspapers
aren't gonna help us.
876
00:55:27,969 --> 00:55:31,468
They're good for
crying at a funeral
or a... hanging.
877
00:55:31,468 --> 00:55:33,469
They've never yet
stopped one.
Hmm.
878
00:55:33,469 --> 00:55:36,967
[ Knocking ]
Come in. It's open.
879
00:55:39,483 --> 00:55:41,482
Gentlemen,
we can make a deal.
880
00:55:41,482 --> 00:55:43,482
A what?
A compromise.
881
00:55:43,482 --> 00:55:45,981
Now, this isn't official
yet, but my connections
assure me...
882
00:55:46,481 --> 00:55:48,980
that if you'll retract
your Texas statement, they'll
pressure the War Department...
883
00:55:49,481 --> 00:55:51,480
into letting you off
with a reprimand.
884
00:55:51,480 --> 00:55:53,979
I have a draft
of a statement here
I think they'll accept.
885
00:55:53,979 --> 00:55:55,978
Can I see it?
886
00:55:57,478 --> 00:56:00,478
Hey, this isn't bad, Frank.
In fact, it's very good.
887
00:56:00,076 --> 00:56:02,976
Dignified, no crawling.
888
00:56:02,976 --> 00:56:04,976
Oh, "I errored
through overzealousness."
889
00:56:04,976 --> 00:56:07,975
That's fine.
Excellent.
890
00:56:07,975 --> 00:56:10,474
Have you got a moment,
Billy?
I can't do it.
891
00:56:10,474 --> 00:56:14,474
How's that?
I can't retract
what I've said.
892
00:56:14,474 --> 00:56:18,473
For heaven's sake, why not?
You only said it
to get your day in court.
893
00:56:18,473 --> 00:56:20,971
You found out you can't have
a day in court where you're
allowed to prove anything.
894
00:56:20,971 --> 00:56:23,471
So you're
losing nothing.
The trial isn't over yet.
895
00:56:23,971 --> 00:56:25,970
Maybe I'll get a chance
to say what I've got to say.
896
00:56:26,470 --> 00:56:28,470
What are you expecting,
a miracle?
897
00:56:28,470 --> 00:56:30,470
Day after day, you've
sat in that courtroom.
898
00:56:30,470 --> 00:56:32,468
You know you'll
never be allowed
to open your mouth...
899
00:56:32,468 --> 00:56:35,468
on anything other
than the charges
brought against you.
900
00:56:35,468 --> 00:56:37,967
Don't be a fool, Billy.
This is no good. Get out
of it while you can.
901
00:56:37,967 --> 00:56:41,467
I can't think of myself alone.
There's all the rest of them.
902
00:56:41,966 --> 00:56:44,465
There's the whole future
of this country in the air.
903
00:56:44,965 --> 00:56:48,465
I've got to go on with it
while there's any chance
this trial will break open.
904
00:56:48,465 --> 00:56:50,464
And you must go on trying
to win for me, Frank.
905
00:56:50,963 --> 00:56:54,463
I never said I'd win for you.
I hoped I'd get you off.
906
00:56:54,463 --> 00:56:57,462
That's just what I've done.
I've saved your career for you.
907
00:56:57,462 --> 00:57:01,461
I've made it possible for you
to stay in that precious
uniform of yours.
908
00:57:01,461 --> 00:57:04,460
That's the best I can do.
That's the best anybody can do.
909
00:57:11,457 --> 00:57:13,457
Now sign this.
910
00:57:21,954 --> 00:57:23,953
I can't do it,
Frank.
911
00:57:24,953 --> 00:57:26,953
[ Pen Clatters ]
912
00:57:27,953 --> 00:57:29,953
As I don't believe
in miracles,
913
00:57:29,953 --> 00:57:33,452
I should tell you to get
yourself a new lawyer.
914
00:57:33,452 --> 00:57:37,450
But I do believe a man
should be buried
by his friends,
915
00:57:38,451 --> 00:57:40,949
so I'll stay
for the funeral.
916
00:57:43,949 --> 00:57:45,948
Come on, Colonel.
917
00:57:54,446 --> 00:57:56,945
Ah, why don't I give up?
918
00:57:57,944 --> 00:57:59,944
What am I
struggling for?
919
00:58:04,942 --> 00:58:07,443
If we could only get
one witness on the stand...
920
00:58:07,443 --> 00:58:10,442
to punch one air disaster
into the record,
921
00:58:10,442 --> 00:58:12,940
we'd punch a hole
in the dike.
922
00:58:12,940 --> 00:58:14,939
Impossible.
923
00:58:27,437 --> 00:58:29,436
Margaret Lansdowne.
924
00:58:30,436 --> 00:58:32,435
It's against procedure.
925
00:58:32,435 --> 00:58:35,934
It's perfect.
It's the other half
of our case.
926
00:58:35,934 --> 00:58:38,932
Don't you see? It wasn't
only the army Billy accused.
It was the navy too.
927
00:58:38,932 --> 00:58:40,933
The navy wouldn't
listen to Lansdowne...
928
00:58:40,933 --> 00:58:43,432
any more than the army
would listen to Mitchell.
929
00:58:43,931 --> 00:58:45,930
Perfect justification.
930
00:58:45,930 --> 00:58:48,432
Mr. Reid, the court
has ruled repeatedly
on this.
931
00:58:48,432 --> 00:58:51,930
They won't allow her
to take the stand.
The widow of a naval hero?
932
00:58:51,930 --> 00:58:54,928
Huh. When the papers
print her story...
933
00:58:54,928 --> 00:58:56,928
and spread it in headlines
across the country,
934
00:58:56,928 --> 00:59:00,927
no court on earth can refuse
to put her on the stand.
935
00:59:04,926 --> 00:59:06,925
I'll see you in court
tomorrow.
936
00:59:22,170 --> 00:59:25,170
Mrs. Lansdowne?
Yes.
937
00:59:25,170 --> 00:59:27,170
I'm Congressman Reid.
I know.
938
00:59:27,170 --> 00:59:31,169
I've seen your picture
in the papers.
May I come in?
939
00:59:31,169 --> 00:59:34,668
I know what
you're here for, sir,
and my answer is no.
940
00:59:34,668 --> 00:59:38,666
I'm sorry.
May I talk to you
a minute, please?
941
00:59:40,667 --> 00:59:42,666
If you wish.
942
00:59:45,664 --> 00:59:47,664
Do I understand you
correctly, that you...
943
00:59:47,664 --> 00:59:50,163
don't want to testify
for Col. Mitchell?
944
00:59:50,163 --> 00:59:53,163
That's right.
But why?
945
00:59:54,162 --> 00:59:56,661
You must have a reason.
946
00:59:56,661 --> 00:59:58,662
I wish you'd tell me
what it is.
947
00:59:58,662 --> 01:00:00,661
I'm sorry. I can't.
948
01:00:02,161 --> 01:00:04,160
May I sit down,
please?
949
01:00:04,160 --> 01:00:07,659
I don't think
we have very much to say
to each other, Mr. Reid.
950
01:00:07,659 --> 01:00:10,658
I think we have
quite a bit to say.
951
01:00:12,657 --> 01:00:14,657
Please?
952
01:00:20,155 --> 01:00:22,155
All right, if you don't
want to tell me,
953
01:00:22,155 --> 01:00:24,154
I won't ask you why
you don't want to testify.
954
01:00:24,654 --> 01:00:28,153
Maybe you have a reason.
Maybe somebody got to you
and convinced you not to talk.
955
01:00:28,153 --> 01:00:30,151
Maybe you think you ought
to protect somebody.
956
01:00:30,151 --> 01:00:32,653
I don't know,
and I don't care.
957
01:00:32,653 --> 01:00:35,651
But one thing
I must know though.
958
01:00:35,651 --> 01:00:39,150
Please don't think
I'm impertinent,
Mrs. Lansdowne.
959
01:00:39,150 --> 01:00:43,583
- I assume that you loved
your husband. Am I right?
- Of course.
960
01:00:43,583 --> 01:00:47,082
All right. And you know that
he died fighting for a cause.
Yes.
961
01:00:47,581 --> 01:00:49,580
That his sense of duty
was so strong...
962
01:00:49,580 --> 01:00:52,080
that he took up a ship
that he knew was unsafe...
963
01:00:52,080 --> 01:00:56,079
and that he fought
in every way possible
to keep grounded.
964
01:00:56,079 --> 01:00:58,578
- How do you know
all this?
- That's immaterial.
965
01:00:58,578 --> 01:01:00,577
I'm trying to tell you
that Billy Mitchell...
966
01:01:00,577 --> 01:01:02,576
is fighting the same fight
your husband fought.
967
01:01:02,576 --> 01:01:04,575
And if your husband
were alive today,
968
01:01:05,077 --> 01:01:07,576
he'd be right in there
with Billy helping him
in every way he could.
969
01:01:07,576 --> 01:01:09,575
[ Crying ]
Please, I wish
you wouldn't.
970
01:01:10,075 --> 01:01:14,574
The only way to avoid such
needless, futile sacrifices
as your husband made...
971
01:01:15,073 --> 01:01:16,573
is for the people
to know the truth.
972
01:01:17,073 --> 01:01:19,572
[ Crying ]
973
01:01:21,073 --> 01:01:25,071
Billy Mitchell has staked
his entire military career
to get it to them.
974
01:01:27,570 --> 01:01:30,070
And I know that your husband
would want you to help him.
975
01:01:31,569 --> 01:01:35,068
[ Sniffling ]
You know he would too.
976
01:01:37,567 --> 01:01:40,067
Mrs. Lansdowne, may I ask
why you have waited until now...
977
01:01:40,067 --> 01:01:43,066
to spread this tale
in the newspapers?
978
01:01:43,066 --> 01:01:46,564
- Nobody asked me before.
- And who asked you now?
979
01:01:49,064 --> 01:01:51,064
It was my own decision.
980
01:01:51,064 --> 01:01:53,063
As I understand it,
Mrs. Lansdowne,
981
01:01:53,063 --> 01:01:57,062
you and Col. Mitchell
have been close friends
for a long time.
982
01:01:57,062 --> 01:01:58,562
That's right.
983
01:01:59,062 --> 01:02:03,060
Isn't it possible
that you came here
to aid an old friend...
984
01:02:03,559 --> 01:02:06,059
at the expense
of the exact truth?
985
01:02:06,059 --> 01:02:09,059
- I object!
- Sustained.
986
01:02:09,059 --> 01:02:12,557
Very well.
987
01:02:12,557 --> 01:02:16,057
You say, Mrs. Lansdowne,
that Col. Mitchell did not
ask you to testify here.
988
01:02:16,057 --> 01:02:18,556
That's right.
Did someone else ask you?
989
01:02:18,556 --> 01:02:20,555
Yes.
Who?
990
01:02:24,055 --> 01:02:27,054
Congressman Reid.
Congressman Reid?
991
01:02:27,054 --> 01:02:29,553
And did Congressman Reid
suggest...
992
01:02:29,553 --> 01:02:32,552
that you tell the story
as it actually happened,
993
01:02:33,053 --> 01:02:36,551
or did he perhaps suggest
that you emphasize
elements in it...
994
01:02:36,551 --> 01:02:38,550
which would prove favorable
to Col. Mitchell?
995
01:02:38,550 --> 01:02:41,049
I object!
I object most violently...
996
01:02:41,049 --> 01:02:43,549
the suggestion that I
suborned this witness.
997
01:02:43,549 --> 01:02:46,049
I am only trying to find out
why this witness--
998
01:02:46,049 --> 01:02:48,548
You are trying to imply
that I put pressure
on Mrs. Lansdowne...
999
01:02:49,048 --> 01:02:50,547
to come here
and perjure herself.
1000
01:02:51,047 --> 01:02:53,546
I think, sir, that
my reputation in the Congress
of the United States--
1001
01:02:53,540 --> 01:02:57,028
- I am not impugning
your reputation.
- Order in the court.
1002
01:02:59,518 --> 01:03:02,008
Allow me
to rephrase my question.
1003
01:03:03,503 --> 01:03:07,486
Prior to your appearance here,
was pressure brought to bear
on you?
1004
01:03:08,982 --> 01:03:12,469
Yes.
Very strong pressure.
1005
01:03:12,469 --> 01:03:14,461
Well.
[ Spectators Murmuring ]
1006
01:03:14,461 --> 01:03:17,948
Suppose you tell us
about it.
1007
01:03:17,948 --> 01:03:21,435
- I was told
not to testify.
- Not-- By whom?
1008
01:03:22,930 --> 01:03:24,921
I'd rather not say.
1009
01:03:26,914 --> 01:03:28,907
Go ahead. Tell them.
1010
01:03:28,907 --> 01:03:31,896
Tell them who told you
not to testify.
1011
01:03:33,390 --> 01:03:37,375
Some friends of my husband--
naval officers.
1012
01:03:37,375 --> 01:03:40,863
- Objection! I withdraw--
- Let her speak.
Let her speak.
1013
01:03:40,863 --> 01:03:44,349
Tell the court what they said.
[ Guthrie ]
Just a moment, Mr. Reid.
1014
01:03:44,349 --> 01:03:49,829
Mrs. Lansdowne,
you're making
a very serious charge.
1015
01:03:49,829 --> 01:03:54,311
Are you telling this court
that you were approached
by naval officers...
1016
01:03:54,311 --> 01:03:56,802
who asked you
to withhold information?
1017
01:03:56,802 --> 01:03:59,790
Yes, sir.
Tell the court
who they were.
1018
01:04:00,289 --> 01:04:02,780
I object! This is irrelevant
and-and immaterial!
1019
01:04:02,780 --> 01:04:04,773
Objection overruled.
1020
01:04:05,768 --> 01:04:07,761
I would rather not
identify them.
1021
01:04:09,255 --> 01:04:11,248
They thought
they were doing it
for the good of the navy.
1022
01:04:11,248 --> 01:04:15,731
- What did they say?
- They said it was the duty
of a navy wife...
1023
01:04:16,228 --> 01:04:18,720
to protect the service
at all costs.
1024
01:04:18,720 --> 01:04:20,712
Didn't you
agree with that?
1025
01:04:20,712 --> 01:04:23,701
Yes.
1026
01:04:23,701 --> 01:04:27,187
They told me that my husband
was a naval hero...
1027
01:04:27,187 --> 01:04:29,181
and that I owed it
to his memory...
1028
01:04:29,181 --> 01:04:31,173
not to drag his name
through the mud of a trial.
1029
01:04:32,666 --> 01:04:34,161
Then what made you
change your mind?
1030
01:04:34,660 --> 01:04:38,146
Because
I realized...
1031
01:04:38,146 --> 01:04:41,135
that by
telling the truth,
1032
01:04:41,135 --> 01:04:44,622
I would be doing my duty
to the navy and to Zach.
1033
01:04:46,615 --> 01:04:50,600
If Zach were alive,
he would be here to
testify for Col. Mitchell.
1034
01:04:51,098 --> 01:04:54,086
I am testifying
in his place
and telling the truth.
1035
01:04:55,581 --> 01:04:58,071
He tried everything.
1036
01:04:59,567 --> 01:05:01,559
He wrote letters,
made phone calls,
1037
01:05:02,057 --> 01:05:04,049
protested to everyone.
1038
01:05:05,045 --> 01:05:07,536
He knew it wasn't safe
to take that ship up.
1039
01:05:09,529 --> 01:05:13,513
On the last day, I drove out
to the mooring mast with him
to say good-bye.
1040
01:05:15,008 --> 01:05:17,498
Everything was ready
for the takeoff,
1041
01:05:17,498 --> 01:05:20,487
but he kept delaying
the departure.
1042
01:05:20,487 --> 01:05:23,477
He was waiting, hoping
for some last-minute word
from Washington.
1043
01:05:25,469 --> 01:05:28,457
We walked to the communication
shack together,
1044
01:05:28,457 --> 01:05:31,446
and he asked the chief on duty
if a message had come for him.
1045
01:05:32,940 --> 01:05:36,926
There was none.
And when the ship was ready,
1046
01:05:36,926 --> 01:05:39,914
he kissed me good-bye
and climbed into the cabin.
1047
01:05:42,405 --> 01:05:45,891
He waved to me
through the window once,
1048
01:05:47,387 --> 01:05:49,877
and then he gave the order
to cast off.
1049
01:05:52,865 --> 01:05:55,356
I never saw him again.
1050
01:05:58,345 --> 01:06:01,831
Zach and his men were
sent to their deaths
by indifference!
1051
01:06:02,330 --> 01:06:05,816
Zach was too young
to be insubordinate,
1052
01:06:05,816 --> 01:06:09,304
too young and too brave
to save his own life.
1053
01:06:12,790 --> 01:06:16,278
I see no need
of prolonging
your appearance here.
1054
01:06:16,278 --> 01:06:19,266
Thank you, madame.
You are excused.
1055
01:06:41,200 --> 01:06:43,691
The prosecution moves
that Mrs. Lansdowne's
testimony...
1056
01:06:44,189 --> 01:06:45,683
be stricken from the record
as irrelevant...
1057
01:06:46,181 --> 01:06:50,166
and as a violation of
the court's previous ruling
on justification witnesses.
1058
01:06:50,166 --> 01:06:56,143
The defense considers
Mrs. Lansdowne's testimony
to be of extreme relevance.
1059
01:06:56,143 --> 01:06:59,631
Moreover, I request
the court to reconsider...
1060
01:06:59,631 --> 01:07:02,122
its prior ruling about
justification witnesses...
1061
01:07:02,122 --> 01:07:06,106
and allow the defense
to call the witnesses whom
it has previously requested.
1062
01:07:07,601 --> 01:07:11,088
In my opinion,
the entire court should
vote on this objection.
1063
01:07:12,582 --> 01:07:15,073
Court will be closed.
[ Bailiff ]
Stand up!
1064
01:07:25,937 --> 01:07:29,879
Sit tight.
Keep your fingers crossed.
1065
01:07:34,804 --> 01:07:36,776
Thank you.
1066
01:07:36,776 --> 01:07:39,238
I'd say
that this changes
the whole picture.
1067
01:07:39,238 --> 01:07:41,208
I don't see how.
She's just
an emotional woman.
1068
01:07:41,702 --> 01:07:43,673
Emotional or not,
I think we ought
to listen to her...
1069
01:07:43,673 --> 01:07:45,643
and to anyone else who may
have pertinent testimony.
1070
01:07:45,643 --> 01:07:48,106
I agree with MacArthur.
Well, I don't.
1071
01:07:48,106 --> 01:07:50,077
We're here to try Mitchell
for insubordination.
1072
01:07:50,077 --> 01:07:52,540
We're not here to listen
to a lot of wailing
about the navy...
1073
01:07:52,540 --> 01:07:55,497
or to hear people try to
justify his behavior.
1074
01:07:55,497 --> 01:07:57,959
You just said it.
We're here to try Mitchell.
1075
01:07:57,959 --> 01:08:00,423
And to give him a fair trial,
we have to listen
to every bit of evidence...
1076
01:08:00,915 --> 01:08:03,872
whether or not it's
technically called
a justification.
1077
01:08:03,872 --> 01:08:06,335
Did you hear
what that girl said
about theShenandoah?
1078
01:08:06,335 --> 01:08:08,305
Suppose other witnesses
had equally positive
testimony.
1079
01:08:08,305 --> 01:08:11,753
The trial would go on for weeks,
and the publicity would be bad
for everybody.
1080
01:08:11,753 --> 01:08:14,218
Well, that's the chance
we have to take.
1081
01:08:14,218 --> 01:08:17,174
The whole foundation
of our legal system
and of our country...
1082
01:08:17,174 --> 01:08:19,636
rests
on the right of a man
to defend himself,
1083
01:08:19,636 --> 01:08:21,607
on his right
to use every means
to defend himself.
1084
01:08:21,607 --> 01:08:24,563
He may be wrong, but
at least he's entitled
to tell his story.
1085
01:08:24,563 --> 01:08:27,519
And the minute
we forget that,
we're in grave danger.
1086
01:08:28,012 --> 01:08:30,475
I mean that, gentlemen.
Very grave danger.
1087
01:08:30,475 --> 01:08:32,938
I agree wholeheartedly
with General MacArthur.
1088
01:08:34,416 --> 01:08:36,880
Anybody else
have any thoughts?
I haven't.
1089
01:08:36,880 --> 01:08:39,342
No.
I think not.
1090
01:08:39,835 --> 01:08:41,805
Then I suggest
we vote on it.
1091
01:08:54,615 --> 01:08:56,585
[ Guthrie ]
Court will
come to order.
1092
01:08:59,541 --> 01:09:03,482
Under the 31st
Article of War,
it's the court's ruling...
1093
01:09:03,482 --> 01:09:08,411
that the motion to strike
Mrs. Lansdowne's testimony
is overruled...
1094
01:09:08,411 --> 01:09:11,366
and that the defense
may proceed with
its witnesses.
1095
01:09:11,366 --> 01:09:14,321
[ Spectators Chattering ]
1096
01:09:14,321 --> 01:09:16,784
Order in the court.
1097
01:09:18,754 --> 01:09:22,695
- Are your witnesses
present?
- Yes, sir.
1098
01:09:22,695 --> 01:09:25,652
One witness, Mr. Reid,
will not be here.
1099
01:09:26,145 --> 01:09:29,592
The president has declined
your kind invitation
to appear at this court.
1100
01:09:30,087 --> 01:09:33,042
The defense wishes
to thank Mr. Coolidge...
1101
01:09:33,042 --> 01:09:35,997
for his gracious
consideration
of our request.
1102
01:09:35,997 --> 01:09:38,462
Our other witnesses,
however, I'm sure,
1103
01:09:38,462 --> 01:09:41,417
will compensate
for his absence.
1104
01:09:45,851 --> 01:09:49,547
[ Man ]
Major Hap Arnold.
1105
01:09:49,547 --> 01:09:52,008
Major Arnold,
how many pilots have we lost
in peacetime flying?
1106
01:09:52,008 --> 01:09:54,472
The total is 517,
sir.
1107
01:09:54,472 --> 01:09:56,937
That is from
January 1919
to date.
1108
01:09:56,937 --> 01:09:59,399
How many of them
met their deaths
in modern planes?
1109
01:09:59,399 --> 01:10:01,370
In machines built
since the war,
12 were killed.
1110
01:10:01,862 --> 01:10:03,833
To your knowledge, Major,
have there been
any recommendations...
1111
01:10:03,833 --> 01:10:07,774
made to the general staff
with respect to safety measures
for the air service?
1112
01:10:07,774 --> 01:10:10,730
Yes, sir. Dozens of them,
most of them
by Col. Mitchell.
1113
01:10:11,222 --> 01:10:13,194
Do you know
what became of them?
1114
01:10:13,194 --> 01:10:15,656
Yes, sir.
They've beenfiled.
1115
01:10:15,656 --> 01:10:18,119
[ Spectators Murmuring ]
1116
01:10:18,613 --> 01:10:20,584
Captain Rickenbacker,
will you tell the court...
1117
01:10:20,584 --> 01:10:23,047
how many enemy planes
you brought down
in the last war?
1118
01:10:23,047 --> 01:10:25,018
Yes, sir.
Twenty-six.
1119
01:10:25,018 --> 01:10:28,465
Approximately how many hours
did you spend flying
over enemy lines?
1120
01:10:28,465 --> 01:10:32,407
About 300.
Now, based on your experiences
in the World War,
1121
01:10:32,407 --> 01:10:34,378
I should like to ask you
three questions.
1122
01:10:34,378 --> 01:10:38,811
First, is it proper
to send an aviator up
without a parachute?
1123
01:10:38,811 --> 01:10:42,753
It's suicidal. It's like
sending a man to sea
without a life preserver.
1124
01:10:43,245 --> 01:10:48,170
Second, what is your opinion
of the aircraft presently
being used by our flyers?
1125
01:10:48,170 --> 01:10:51,129
The graveyards
around our airfields
prove their worth.
1126
01:10:51,129 --> 01:10:54,084
Third, do you happen to know
what the aviation rank
of the United States is...
1127
01:10:54,084 --> 01:10:56,054
in comparison
with other nations?
1128
01:10:56,054 --> 01:10:59,503
According to the latest
information I have,
we're now in eighth place.
1129
01:10:59,503 --> 01:11:01,473
[ Spectators Murmuring ]
Thank you,
Capt. Rickenbacker.
1130
01:11:01,473 --> 01:11:04,430
Your witness.
Would it surprise you
to know, Captain,
1131
01:11:04,921 --> 01:11:06,892
that the latest
official reports contradict...
1132
01:11:06,892 --> 01:11:10,342
most of your so-called
informedstatements?
1133
01:11:10,834 --> 01:11:16,252
I wouldn't be surprised
at anything in the official
reports you refer to.
1134
01:11:16,252 --> 01:11:18,225
I would be surprised
if anybody believed them.
1135
01:11:18,225 --> 01:11:21,181
No further questions.
1136
01:11:21,181 --> 01:11:24,136
Major Spaatz,
what is your present
military assignment?
1137
01:11:24,136 --> 01:11:26,598
I am chief of the
tactical unit section
of the training command.
1138
01:11:26,598 --> 01:11:28,569
Now, Major Spaatz,
can you inform this court...
1139
01:11:28,569 --> 01:11:32,510
as to how many planes
our armed forces presently
have for combat purposes?
1140
01:11:32,510 --> 01:11:34,482
Yes, sir. Nine.
1141
01:11:34,974 --> 01:11:38,915
But the War Department
carries on the army list
1,800 planes.
1142
01:11:38,915 --> 01:11:41,378
That is technically
correct, sir.
1143
01:11:41,378 --> 01:11:44,333
But of that number,
1,400 are museum pieces...
1144
01:11:44,333 --> 01:11:46,305
which are obsolete
and of little
serviceable use.
1145
01:11:46,797 --> 01:11:48,767
And the remaining 400?
1146
01:11:48,767 --> 01:11:52,216
331 of those
were flown in France
in 1917...
1147
01:11:52,216 --> 01:11:54,681
and have not
been modified
or improved since.
1148
01:11:54,681 --> 01:11:56,651
And the remaining 69?
1149
01:11:57,143 --> 01:11:59,113
Sixty are used
for training purposes.
1150
01:11:59,113 --> 01:12:02,563
That leaves nine
for use against
a possible enemy.
1151
01:12:02,563 --> 01:12:06,010
And of that number, not one
pursuit ship is equipped
for wartime service.
1152
01:12:06,010 --> 01:12:08,967
So you believe the organization
of the tactical unit
of the air service...
1153
01:12:08,967 --> 01:12:11,430
is being retarded
by the War Department.
1154
01:12:11,923 --> 01:12:15,863
- I do.
-Thank you, Major.
Thank you very much.
1155
01:12:15,863 --> 01:12:18,820
Is it your experience,
Mr. La Guardia,
as a member of the Congress,
1156
01:12:18,820 --> 01:12:23,253
that younger officers
invariably want to carry out
the wishes of the general staff?
1157
01:12:23,253 --> 01:12:25,225
Well, let me put it
this way.
1158
01:12:25,716 --> 01:12:27,687
When the army testifies
before Congress,
1159
01:12:27,687 --> 01:12:31,137
it operates like
a self-greasing axle.
[ Spectators Laugh ]
1160
01:12:31,137 --> 01:12:33,107
Thank you, Congressman.
Your witness.
1161
01:12:33,107 --> 01:12:36,554
Mr. La Guardia, is it true
you made a speech in New York...
1162
01:12:36,554 --> 01:12:40,990
in which you said Col. Mitchell
is not being tried
by a jury of his peers?
1163
01:12:40,990 --> 01:12:44,930
- That is correct.
- By what logic do you
arrive at the conclusion...
1164
01:12:44,930 --> 01:12:49,363
that general officers
in the United States Army
are not equals to Col. Mitchell?
1165
01:12:49,858 --> 01:12:53,305
That's easy. Their feet
are stuck in the mud.
[ Spectators Laugh ]
1166
01:12:53,798 --> 01:12:56,261
Not one of them has ever
flown in an airplane.
1167
01:12:56,261 --> 01:12:59,710
Isn't it possible, Congressman--
having flown a plane yourself--
1168
01:12:59,710 --> 01:13:03,159
that your judgment is clouded
by the natural sympathy
you feel...
1169
01:13:03,159 --> 01:13:06,114
for another man
who also flies a plane?
1170
01:13:06,114 --> 01:13:10,055
I have no more
natural sympathy
for an airplane pilot...
1171
01:13:10,055 --> 01:13:12,520
than I do for some
of my colleagues
in Congress.
1172
01:13:12,520 --> 01:13:16,460
[ Spectators Laugh ]
Yet you say that officers
who have never flown...
1173
01:13:16,460 --> 01:13:18,431
are not equals
to Col. Mitchell.
1174
01:13:18,924 --> 01:13:22,373
In that respect only.
It's as reasonable
to have them judge him...
1175
01:13:22,373 --> 01:13:24,343
as it is for you
to run for Congress.
1176
01:13:24,343 --> 01:13:27,791
[ Spectators Laughing ]
No further questions.
1177
01:13:27,791 --> 01:13:31,241
Admiral Sims, how does
the United States Navy
handle its aircraft?
1178
01:13:31,241 --> 01:13:34,688
What is its policy?
Well, it has no policy.
1179
01:13:34,688 --> 01:13:37,152
It bumps along
from day to day.
[ Spectators Laugh ]
1180
01:13:37,152 --> 01:13:40,600
Does the navy
consider the airplane
a major weapon?
1181
01:13:42,079 --> 01:13:44,541
The Navy Department
is ignoring the airplane...
1182
01:13:45,035 --> 01:13:47,991
in the hope that,
if they don't notice it,
maybe it'll disappear.
1183
01:13:47,991 --> 01:13:50,453
[ Laughter ]
Thank you, Admiral.
Your witness.
1184
01:13:51,931 --> 01:13:54,888
Admiral, how do you account for
this difference of opinion...
1185
01:13:54,888 --> 01:13:57,350
between you and your
colleagues of the navy?
1186
01:13:57,350 --> 01:14:01,292
Well, they are just not
educated about the air.
1187
01:14:01,292 --> 01:14:03,263
Surely,
they're capable officers...
1188
01:14:03,263 --> 01:14:06,218
who can inform themselves
on the problems of aviation.
1189
01:14:06,218 --> 01:14:10,160
Reading a lot of golf books
doesn't make a man
a good golf player.
1190
01:14:10,160 --> 01:14:15,579
[ Laughter ]
As I understand it, Admiral, you
are no longer in active service.
1191
01:14:15,579 --> 01:14:19,027
- Is that right?
- Yes, sir.
I am retired.
1192
01:14:19,521 --> 01:14:24,446
But I can still think for
myself, and I'd like to tell
this court one thing, sir.
1193
01:14:24,446 --> 01:14:27,894
This row on air power
is not a row between
the army and navy.
1194
01:14:28,388 --> 01:14:32,329
It is a clash between
men who love to fly
and men who don't,
1195
01:14:32,822 --> 01:14:35,284
men who think
in terms of air power...
1196
01:14:35,284 --> 01:14:38,733
and men who can't
think at all.
1197
01:14:39,227 --> 01:14:42,675
Col. Moreland,
this Mitchell business
is getting out of hand.
1198
01:14:43,168 --> 01:14:45,138
It looks as though
he's put the army on trial.
1199
01:14:45,138 --> 01:14:48,094
Mr. President, the army
has no intention of being
on the defensive.
1200
01:14:48,094 --> 01:14:51,050
You may depend on that.
The prestige
of our armed forces...
1201
01:14:51,542 --> 01:14:53,514
is being affected
all over the world.
1202
01:14:53,514 --> 01:14:56,469
The sooner this is over with,
the better it'll be
for the whole country.
1203
01:14:56,469 --> 01:15:01,412
I can assure you, sir,
the complexion of the trial
is going to change very shortly.
1204
01:15:01,412 --> 01:15:03,875
Thank you.
Yes, sir.
1205
01:15:10,281 --> 01:15:13,728
Where's the--
[ Men ] ?? Come, Josephine
in my flying machine ??
1206
01:15:13,728 --> 01:15:17,669
?? Going up, she goes
Up she goes ??
1207
01:15:17,669 --> 01:15:20,133
?? Balance yourself
like a bird on a beam ??
1208
01:15:20,133 --> 01:15:24,566
?? In the air, she goes
Hey, here she goes ??
1209
01:15:24,566 --> 01:15:28,016
?? Up, up
a little bit higher ??
1210
01:15:28,016 --> 01:15:30,971
?? Oh, my
the moon is on fire-- ??
Hey! There's Mr. Reid.
1211
01:15:30,971 --> 01:15:34,419
[ All Cheer ]
What's the matter
with Congressman Reid?
1212
01:15:34,419 --> 01:15:36,391
[ All ]
He's all right.
1213
01:15:36,391 --> 01:15:39,346
Who's all right?
[ All ]
Congressman Reid!
1214
01:15:39,346 --> 01:15:42,795
Hello, fellas.
George, bring Congressman Reid
a couple of brass hats on toast.
1215
01:15:43,288 --> 01:15:47,229
They're not very good.
They're hard to digest.
Give you gas.
1216
01:15:47,229 --> 01:15:51,169
Gentlemen, I move that
we appoint Congressman Reid
President of the United States.
1217
01:15:51,169 --> 01:15:53,634
[ All Cheering ]
Thank you, gentlemen.
1218
01:15:54,127 --> 01:15:57,082
I promise to move
the White House
into a bomber.
1219
01:15:57,082 --> 01:15:59,052
First, I'd like
to talk to my client.
Where's Col. Mitchell?
1220
01:15:59,545 --> 01:16:02,008
He's still in his room.
Come on, Mr. Reid.
Let's go get him.
1221
01:16:02,008 --> 01:16:05,457
?
?? Come, Josephine
in my flying machine ?
1222
01:16:05,457 --> 01:16:08,905
?? Going up, she goes
Up she goes ????
1223
01:16:09,398 --> 01:16:12,354
[ Knocking ]
Yes?
1224
01:16:13,340 --> 01:16:15,310
Billy?
1225
01:16:17,281 --> 01:16:20,236
You all right?
Me? Sure. I'm--
1226
01:16:20,236 --> 01:16:22,208
Just a little headache.
1227
01:16:22,208 --> 01:16:24,670
Well, forget the party
and get a good night's sleep.
1228
01:16:24,670 --> 01:16:27,134
I want you fresh
on the witness stand
in the morning.
1229
01:16:27,134 --> 01:16:29,104
Look at me, sir.
1230
01:16:29,104 --> 01:16:31,075
Go away, Russ.
I'm all right.
1231
01:16:35,016 --> 01:16:37,479
I thought so.
It's his malaria.
1232
01:16:37,479 --> 01:16:40,929
He needs more
than this quinine.
I'd better get a doctor.
1233
01:16:40,929 --> 01:16:42,899
You'll do nothing
of the kind.
1234
01:16:42,899 --> 01:16:45,361
Come back here, Russ.
1235
01:16:45,361 --> 01:16:47,826
You can't go on the stand
in this condition.
1236
01:16:47,826 --> 01:16:50,781
I'll be all right tomorrow.
I've had these attacks
before.
1237
01:16:52,751 --> 01:16:55,214
I've got to go
on the witness stand.
1238
01:16:55,214 --> 01:16:57,185
Why do you want to do it?
You don't have to.
1239
01:16:58,664 --> 01:17:02,111
I haven't testified yet.
But you don't have to.
We won.
1240
01:17:02,605 --> 01:17:05,561
I haven't won,
not till we get
an air force.
1241
01:17:07,039 --> 01:17:09,009
Listen.
I'm listening.
1242
01:17:09,009 --> 01:17:12,457
Frank... are you
gonna put me on?
1243
01:17:15,906 --> 01:17:17,877
If you insist.
1244
01:17:25,267 --> 01:17:28,715
Better get that doctor, Russ.
Ask him to stand by
in court tomorrow.
1245
01:17:28,715 --> 01:17:30,686
He may be needed.
1246
01:17:43,742 --> 01:17:46,204
Court will come to order.
1247
01:17:46,204 --> 01:17:50,146
Col. Mitchell, at this time,
I remind you that under
the Articles of War,
1248
01:17:50,638 --> 01:17:53,595
you have three choices
as to procedure.
1249
01:17:53,595 --> 01:17:56,058
You may remain silent,
and, if you do so,
1250
01:17:56,058 --> 01:17:59,508
no inference
will be drawn
one way or the other.
1251
01:17:59,746 --> 01:18:03,246
You may, if you wish,
make a statement
not under oath.
1252
01:18:03,747 --> 01:18:05,747
Or you may be sworn,
1253
01:18:05,747 --> 01:18:08,749
in which case,
you'll be subject
to cross-examination.
1254
01:18:08,749 --> 01:18:10,751
The rights of the accused
have been explained to him,
1255
01:18:10,751 --> 01:18:13,251
and he elects
to testify under oath.
1256
01:18:21,255 --> 01:18:24,757
Do you swear the testimony
you shall give in
the proceedings now before us...
1257
01:18:25,255 --> 01:18:29,258
shall be the truth,
the whole truth and nothing
but the truth, so help you God?
1258
01:18:29,258 --> 01:18:31,260
I do.
1259
01:18:34,762 --> 01:18:36,762
May it please the court,
I should like to note
the addition...
1260
01:18:36,762 --> 01:18:40,764
of Major Allan Gullion
to my staff.
1261
01:18:40,764 --> 01:18:43,264
He shall conduct
the cross-examination
of Col. Mitchell.
1262
01:18:43,264 --> 01:18:46,767
Who's he?
One of the best legal minds
in the army.
1263
01:18:46,767 --> 01:18:48,769
I didn't know
he was in Washington.
1264
01:18:53,770 --> 01:18:56,270
And now, Colonel,
as an aviation expert,
1265
01:18:56,270 --> 01:18:58,773
as a flyer who's been
highly honored
by his government...
1266
01:18:58,773 --> 01:19:01,274
for his services
in war and in peace,
1267
01:19:01,774 --> 01:19:03,775
is there something you wish
to say in conclusion?
1268
01:19:06,776 --> 01:19:10,277
As an officer
in the United States Army,
1269
01:19:10,277 --> 01:19:12,779
I had to choose between
my duty to the army...
1270
01:19:12,779 --> 01:19:15,780
and what I considered
to be my duty
to my country.
1271
01:19:17,281 --> 01:19:20,782
I chose the distasteful
method of inviting
my own court-martial...
1272
01:19:20,782 --> 01:19:25,285
because I felt
in no other way
could I focus attention...
1273
01:19:25,285 --> 01:19:27,787
upon a desperately
urgent problem.
1274
01:19:27,787 --> 01:19:31,789
I hope I've made it clear
that our country needs
an adequate air force.
1275
01:19:31,789 --> 01:19:36,790
But above and beyond that,
it needs immediate
consideration...
1276
01:19:36,790 --> 01:19:39,291
for the safety
of our flyers.
1277
01:19:42,794 --> 01:19:45,295
[ Chattering ]
Order in the court.
1278
01:19:45,295 --> 01:19:48,795
Order in the court.
Thank you, Colonel.
1279
01:19:48,795 --> 01:19:52,798
I know your words
will not go unheeded
by the people of this country.
1280
01:19:52,798 --> 01:19:55,548
You may cross-examine.
1281
01:19:59,551 --> 01:20:03,552
[ Knocks ]
Col. Mitchell, I've been
studying your war record,
1282
01:20:03,552 --> 01:20:07,054
and I must confess
it overwhelms me.
1283
01:20:07,054 --> 01:20:10,556
Those ribbons on your breast,
sir-- would you mind stating
what decorations they represent?
1284
01:20:12,558 --> 01:20:16,557
The Distinguished Service Medal,
the Distinguished Service Cross,
the Legion of Honor,
1285
01:20:16,557 --> 01:20:19,061
the Crown of Italy,
1286
01:20:19,061 --> 01:20:21,562
the Order of Saint Michael
and Saint George
and the Croix de Guerre.
1287
01:20:21,562 --> 01:20:24,562
That's very interesting, sir.
Now, Colonel,
to your knowledge,
1288
01:20:24,562 --> 01:20:28,065
are you the only American
officer in the army today
that wears such decorations?
1289
01:20:28,065 --> 01:20:30,065
Of course not.
Many other officers
wear them.
1290
01:20:30,564 --> 01:20:33,067
I see.
Now, tell me this.
1291
01:20:33,067 --> 01:20:36,068
Have any of these
other officers
ever been court-martialed?
1292
01:20:36,068 --> 01:20:40,069
Objection. That's immaterial.
You needn't answer that,
Colonel.
1293
01:20:40,069 --> 01:20:44,071
I was merely trying
to establish what
a unique officer you are.
1294
01:20:44,071 --> 01:20:46,073
But you are.
You are very,
very different...
1295
01:20:46,073 --> 01:20:48,073
and a special
sort of man.
1296
01:20:50,076 --> 01:20:53,076
I assume, Col. Mitchell,
you share with me
the respect I have...
1297
01:20:53,076 --> 01:20:55,077
for those officers
in the American army...
1298
01:20:55,077 --> 01:20:57,577
who wear as distinguished
decorations as your own?
1299
01:20:57,577 --> 01:20:59,579
Of course.
They earned them.
1300
01:20:59,579 --> 01:21:02,579
By risking their lives
in combat in the defense
of their country?
1301
01:21:02,579 --> 01:21:06,082
Yes.
Then why did you
call such men traitors?
1302
01:21:06,582 --> 01:21:09,584
Objection.
That question assumes
facts not in evidence.
1303
01:21:10,084 --> 01:21:13,086
Objection overruled.
1304
01:21:13,086 --> 01:21:15,585
To repeat the question,
1305
01:21:16,586 --> 01:21:18,588
in your statement
in San Antonio,
1306
01:21:18,588 --> 01:21:21,588
why did you call
such men traitors?
1307
01:21:21,588 --> 01:21:24,589
I wasn't referring
specifically to any officer.
1308
01:21:24,589 --> 01:21:26,591
But you certainly must
have had some men in mind...
1309
01:21:26,591 --> 01:21:30,093
when you accuse
the general staff of conduct
that was virtually treasonable.
1310
01:21:32,094 --> 01:21:36,097
I was thinking of the system,
the system of administering
air power...
1311
01:21:36,097 --> 01:21:38,098
in the army
and the navy.
1312
01:21:38,098 --> 01:21:42,098
I see. You were speaking
in generalities.
Yes.
1313
01:21:42,098 --> 01:21:46,101
But isn't it possible, sir,
that many of your statements
have been generalities?
1314
01:21:46,101 --> 01:21:48,600
No, sir.
1315
01:21:48,600 --> 01:21:53,604
And am I to understand,
when you use a phrase,
1316
01:21:53,604 --> 01:21:57,606
"guilty of criminal
negligence,"
that you meant that?
1317
01:21:58,107 --> 01:22:02,108
That statement was
and is accurate.
1318
01:22:02,108 --> 01:22:04,109
Negligence
of the ordinary--
No. Forgive me--
1319
01:22:04,109 --> 01:22:06,610
Forgive me
for interrupting, Colonel,
1320
01:22:07,110 --> 01:22:10,611
but I'm sure the court
would like to be clear
on this point.
1321
01:22:12,611 --> 01:22:16,614
You do then reiterate
your accusation...
1322
01:22:16,614 --> 01:22:22,118
that certain high-ranking
officers in the American
army are criminals.
1323
01:22:22,118 --> 01:22:24,119
You're twisting my words.
1324
01:22:25,619 --> 01:22:30,121
Col. Mitchell,
did your public attack
on the army...
1325
01:22:30,121 --> 01:22:33,622
start after
a series of accidents
involving your friends,
1326
01:22:33,622 --> 01:22:37,125
in which some
of your friends were--
were killed?
1327
01:22:37,125 --> 01:22:39,626
Yes.
Isn't it possible, sir,
1328
01:22:39,626 --> 01:22:45,128
that the sense of grief
that you felt
over their loss...
1329
01:22:45,628 --> 01:22:48,130
inspired you
to make your statement?
1330
01:22:48,130 --> 01:22:51,631
It did not.
Then why didn't you
attack your superiors...
1331
01:22:51,631 --> 01:22:55,134
before the accidents
involving your friends?
1332
01:22:55,134 --> 01:22:57,134
I wasn't ready.
1333
01:22:57,134 --> 01:23:00,136
You mean
you didn't think the iron
was hot enough to strike?
1334
01:23:02,136 --> 01:23:04,137
I recall no such thought.
1335
01:23:04,137 --> 01:23:08,139
And don't you mean
that you wanted to wait
until you felt sure...
1336
01:23:08,139 --> 01:23:11,640
that the newspapers
would be on your side?
1337
01:23:11,640 --> 01:23:14,141
On the side of a bigger
and better air service.
1338
01:23:14,141 --> 01:23:17,642
You consider the press qualified
to influence and dictate
to the armed forces?
1339
01:23:18,144 --> 01:23:21,645
I object to this whole
line of questioning
as irrelevant and immaterial.
1340
01:23:21,645 --> 01:23:25,647
The matter before this court
is the facts behind
the alleged offense.
1341
01:23:27,648 --> 01:23:29,649
May it please the court.
1342
01:23:29,649 --> 01:23:34,651
The accused is attempting
to establish justification
for the offense,
1343
01:23:34,651 --> 01:23:37,653
and I'm trying to prove
that there's no
justification.
1344
01:23:37,653 --> 01:23:39,653
[ Guthrie ]
Sustained.
1345
01:23:39,653 --> 01:23:44,139
Colonel, I have here
original letters
written by you...
1346
01:23:44,139 --> 01:23:48,641
to the War Department
over the period
of the last two years.
1347
01:23:49,642 --> 01:23:52,643
You recognize them?
They're mine, all right.
1348
01:23:52,643 --> 01:23:55,143
I've read them
with great interest.
1349
01:23:55,143 --> 01:23:59,146
I'm glad somebody did.
[ Laughs ]
1350
01:23:59,146 --> 01:24:01,648
I should like to question you
about some of the statements...
1351
01:24:01,648 --> 01:24:04,148
you make
in these communications.
1352
01:24:04,148 --> 01:24:06,149
You say here that
"In future wars,
1353
01:24:06,149 --> 01:24:08,651
"soldiers will invade
peaceful lands...
1354
01:24:08,651 --> 01:24:13,152
by leaping in parachutes
from airplanes in the sky."
1355
01:24:13,152 --> 01:24:15,654
Would you care to reveal
who gave you
this startling information?
1356
01:24:15,654 --> 01:24:17,655
Nobody gave it to me.
1357
01:24:17,655 --> 01:24:21,657
It's quite obvious
to anyone with
the slightest foresight.
1358
01:24:21,657 --> 01:24:25,659
I see. Then do you mean
that the chiefs of staff
of the army and navy...
1359
01:24:25,659 --> 01:24:28,160
are not only treasonable
and incompetent...
1360
01:24:28,160 --> 01:24:30,661
but are lacking
in foresight as well?
1361
01:24:30,661 --> 01:24:33,663
You said that.
I didn't.
[ Spectators Laugh ]
1362
01:24:33,663 --> 01:24:36,163
Now, in this letter,
you recommend that
the armed forces...
1363
01:24:36,163 --> 01:24:38,165
be separated
into three branches--
1364
01:24:38,165 --> 01:24:42,668
the army, navy
and the air force.
1365
01:24:42,668 --> 01:24:45,168
Is that your opinion?
It is.
1366
01:24:45,668 --> 01:24:48,169
Why did you seek to divide
the fighting forces
of this country?
1367
01:24:48,670 --> 01:24:50,670
I didn't mean
to divide them.
1368
01:24:50,670 --> 01:24:52,672
I recommended that
they all be combined...
1369
01:24:52,672 --> 01:24:55,173
under a single Department
of National Defense...
1370
01:24:55,173 --> 01:24:57,173
with specialists
in command of each branch.
1371
01:24:57,173 --> 01:25:00,174
And did you see yourself, sir,
1372
01:25:00,174 --> 01:25:03,176
in the role of the specialist
in command of the air force?
1373
01:25:03,176 --> 01:25:06,679
Objection. The line
of questioning up to now
is a familiar one...
1374
01:25:06,679 --> 01:25:09,179
seeking to falsely
characterize
the accused...
1375
01:25:09,679 --> 01:25:12,180
by the clever
manipulation
of semantics.
1376
01:25:13,181 --> 01:25:15,182
Sustained.
1377
01:25:17,182 --> 01:25:21,184
You state here that "The army
should investigate methods
of protection against air raids,
1378
01:25:21,184 --> 01:25:23,687
including alarm signals
and bomb shelters."
1379
01:25:23,687 --> 01:25:25,687
[ Chuckles ]
Bomb shelters.
1380
01:25:26,187 --> 01:25:30,690
Is it your actual belief that
this country is vulnerable
to attack from the air?
1381
01:25:30,690 --> 01:25:34,692
It is my belief, if not now,
at least within
the foreseeable future.
1382
01:25:34,692 --> 01:25:38,192
Col. Mitchell, do you have
any idea of the width
of the Atlantic Ocean?
1383
01:25:38,192 --> 01:25:40,194
Approximately 3,000 miles.
1384
01:25:40,194 --> 01:25:44,196
And the Pacific Ocean?
I know what you're
getting at, and I tell you,
1385
01:25:44,196 --> 01:25:48,698
it won't be long before
an airplane will fly
nonstop across both oceans.
1386
01:25:49,197 --> 01:25:51,199
Carrying bombs.
Carrying bombs.
1387
01:25:51,199 --> 01:25:55,700
Col. Mitchell, do you realize
that your declarations,
if taken seriously,
1388
01:25:55,700 --> 01:25:59,703
could result in creating
panic among the people
of our country?
1389
01:25:59,703 --> 01:26:03,705
I'd rather have the people
scared than dead.
[ Spectators Laugh ]
1390
01:26:05,204 --> 01:26:07,206
Now, here's one
in which you propose
that the government...
1391
01:26:07,206 --> 01:26:09,708
build an academy
like West Point for airmen.
1392
01:26:09,708 --> 01:26:11,709
What do you have
against West Point?
1393
01:26:12,208 --> 01:26:14,210
I have nothing
against West Point.
1394
01:26:15,710 --> 01:26:18,211
It's a fine school
for infantrymen.
1395
01:26:18,211 --> 01:26:20,714
There should be
an equally good school
for flyers.
1396
01:26:22,212 --> 01:26:24,715
Now, in this one, you make
the statement that, quote,
1397
01:26:24,715 --> 01:26:26,715
"Airships traveling
a thousand miles an hour...
1398
01:26:27,216 --> 01:26:31,719
will fight each other
in the stratosphere."
Unquote.
1399
01:26:31,719 --> 01:26:36,220
Col. Mitchell, do you have
any comprehension how fast
a thousand miles an hour is?
1400
01:26:36,220 --> 01:26:39,721
Of course I do.
Do you know that it's faster
than the speed of sound?
1401
01:26:39,721 --> 01:26:43,724
It's approximately
250 miles faster
than the speed of sound.
1402
01:26:43,724 --> 01:26:47,225
Are there any airplanes today
that can go 250 miles an hour?
1403
01:26:48,726 --> 01:26:50,726
Wedon't have any.
I can tell you that.
[ Laughter ]
1404
01:26:50,726 --> 01:26:55,730
But you said, sir, that
they wouldn't only go
250 miles an hour,
1405
01:26:55,730 --> 01:26:58,731
but they would go
250 miles...
1406
01:26:58,731 --> 01:27:01,231
faster than
the speed of sound.
1407
01:27:01,231 --> 01:27:04,232
That's correct.
Well, now, would it be
asking too much...
1408
01:27:04,734 --> 01:27:07,735
if I could learn from you
what crystal ball...
1409
01:27:07,735 --> 01:27:10,235
you got
these astounding facts from?
1410
01:27:10,235 --> 01:27:13,737
Objection. The prosecutor's
attempting to ridicule
the witness.
1411
01:27:13,737 --> 01:27:16,740
I'll answer that question.
There is no crystal ball.
1412
01:27:17,238 --> 01:27:19,239
Anyone with any knowledge
of the air knows...
1413
01:27:19,239 --> 01:27:24,242
that the ultimate speed
of aircraft
is almost unlimited.
1414
01:27:24,242 --> 01:27:26,745
It depends only
on technical developments.
1415
01:27:28,745 --> 01:27:31,746
Amazing.
1416
01:27:31,746 --> 01:27:34,747
Here's a letter
to headquarters you wrote
after a short trip to Hawaii.
1417
01:27:34,747 --> 01:27:38,750
You say, quote,
"The army and navy commands
here are concerned...
1418
01:27:38,750 --> 01:27:41,249
"principally with the question
of jurisdiction.
1419
01:27:41,249 --> 01:27:43,251
"There is so much
petty bickering between them...
1420
01:27:43,251 --> 01:27:46,753
that the Islands are virtually
undefended." Unquote.
1421
01:27:46,753 --> 01:27:49,254
[ Spectators Murmuring ]
Do you consider that
a proper observation...
1422
01:27:49,254 --> 01:27:52,254
to be made by an officer
about his superiors?
1423
01:27:52,254 --> 01:27:54,256
That was written
in connection
with my belief...
1424
01:27:54,256 --> 01:27:57,259
that air power
will control the Pacific.
1425
01:27:57,259 --> 01:28:00,760
It's very important that
the missions of the army,
the navy and the air...
1426
01:28:00,760 --> 01:28:02,859
be-- be sharply defined.
1427
01:28:05,260 --> 01:28:07,263
Thank you.
1428
01:28:07,263 --> 01:28:10,764
You seem to have quite a bit
to say about Hawaii, Colonel.
1429
01:28:10,764 --> 01:28:13,265
For example,
you write that...
1430
01:28:13,265 --> 01:28:18,767
"Pearl Harbor has no adequate
defense against air attack--
1431
01:28:18,767 --> 01:28:22,269
It hasn't.
"and that a foreign power
could attack...
1432
01:28:22,269 --> 01:28:25,837
and reduce the Hawaiian Islands
in a matter of minutes."
1433
01:28:25,837 --> 01:28:28,338
Do you actually
believe that?
I not only believe it,
1434
01:28:28,338 --> 01:28:31,341
if you'll look into
those letters, you'll find
my specific observations...
1435
01:28:31,341 --> 01:28:34,342
on how it can be done.
1436
01:28:34,342 --> 01:28:36,342
I was coming to that.
1437
01:28:36,342 --> 01:28:39,344
Oh, yes. Here it is.
1438
01:28:40,844 --> 01:28:45,847
Your letter dated
December 14, 1923.
1439
01:28:45,847 --> 01:28:47,849
I'll read this slowly
and distinctly...
1440
01:28:47,849 --> 01:28:51,850
because I want the court
to know that you are
second to none,
1441
01:28:51,850 --> 01:28:55,850
that you are an expert
in palmistry,
1442
01:28:55,850 --> 01:28:59,353
table-tipping
and the reading of tea leaves.
1443
01:28:59,353 --> 01:29:02,356
I object!
The prosecutor's
being abusive.
1444
01:29:02,356 --> 01:29:06,856
- Objection sustained.
- My apologies, Colonel.
1445
01:29:06,856 --> 01:29:09,357
I'll let your words
speak for themselves.
1446
01:29:10,859 --> 01:29:13,359
"Preceded by
scouting submarines,
1447
01:29:13,859 --> 01:29:17,861
"enemy aircraft carriers
will lay off
the island of Oahu...
1448
01:29:17,861 --> 01:29:21,364
"at a distance
of about 150 miles.
1449
01:29:21,364 --> 01:29:24,865
"The attack will be
launched in two waves
and without warning.
1450
01:29:25,367 --> 01:29:27,367
"The first wave will strike
at Pearl Harbor,
1451
01:29:27,866 --> 01:29:31,368
"Schofield Barracks,
and the Ford Island airdrome...
1452
01:29:31,368 --> 01:29:34,370
"and the naval
fuel and ammunition dumps.
1453
01:29:34,370 --> 01:29:38,373
"This attack will be followed
by a second shortly thereafter,
1454
01:29:38,373 --> 01:29:42,373
its objectives being
the city and wharfs
of Honolulu."
1455
01:29:42,373 --> 01:29:44,875
[ Spectators Murmuring ]
1456
01:29:44,875 --> 01:29:46,874
Colonel--
1457
01:29:46,874 --> 01:29:48,876
[ Chuckling ]
Colonel, what was
your condition--
1458
01:29:49,378 --> 01:29:52,379
What was your state of mind
when you wrote this?
1459
01:29:52,379 --> 01:29:55,880
If you mean was I crazy,
the answer is no.
1460
01:29:55,880 --> 01:29:59,881
And you still cling
to this, uh, prediction?
1461
01:29:59,881 --> 01:30:03,883
Unless we repair
our defenses, we can
certainly be attacked.
1462
01:30:04,383 --> 01:30:07,385
I see. Now, there's
one piece of information...
1463
01:30:07,385 --> 01:30:09,386
I couldn't seem to find
in your communications.
1464
01:30:09,386 --> 01:30:11,388
Perhaps you could
enlighten us.
1465
01:30:11,388 --> 01:30:15,388
Does your crystal ball
reveal by what enemy...
1466
01:30:15,388 --> 01:30:17,390
this mythical attack
will be made?
1467
01:30:17,390 --> 01:30:20,392
Objection! The prosecutor
is goading the witness.
By whom, Colonel? By whom?
1468
01:30:20,392 --> 01:30:23,393
Will the court
instruct the witness
not to answer that question?
1469
01:30:23,892 --> 01:30:25,893
I'll answer that question.
1470
01:30:25,893 --> 01:30:28,394
The attack will be made
by the Japanese.
1471
01:30:28,394 --> 01:30:30,897
[ Spectators
Chattering Loudly ]
1472
01:30:34,897 --> 01:30:37,900
The prosecution would like
to submit these documents...
1473
01:30:37,900 --> 01:30:39,901
as the exhibit
next in order.
1474
01:30:39,901 --> 01:30:41,901
They will be received.
1475
01:30:41,901 --> 01:30:46,404
Col. Mitchell,
what explanation
the War Department...
1476
01:30:46,404 --> 01:30:48,905
will have to make
to the Japanese
ambassador...
1477
01:30:48,905 --> 01:30:51,406
is beyond the province
of this court.
1478
01:30:51,406 --> 01:30:54,408
However, now that you
have said your say,
1479
01:30:54,408 --> 01:30:58,908
now that you have done
your-- your little piece,
1480
01:30:59,410 --> 01:31:02,411
now that you have, uh,
proclaimed your vision,
1481
01:31:02,911 --> 01:31:05,412
might you not say
that you have
overstated your case,
1482
01:31:05,412 --> 01:31:10,415
and, upon sober reflection,
things aren't as bad
as you said?
1483
01:31:10,415 --> 01:31:12,415
Most certainly not.
1484
01:31:12,916 --> 01:31:15,417
I meant every word of it,
and I still do.
1485
01:31:15,417 --> 01:31:18,419
Then I submit,
Col. Mitchell,
1486
01:31:18,419 --> 01:31:23,420
that you are guilty
of the most flagrant
disorder...
1487
01:31:23,420 --> 01:31:26,422
to the prejudice
of good
military discipline.
1488
01:31:26,422 --> 01:31:28,923
I don't agree.
1489
01:31:29,923 --> 01:31:32,924
Col. Mitchell,
is it, uh,
1490
01:31:32,924 --> 01:31:35,427
is it your desire today
to remain in the army?
1491
01:31:35,427 --> 01:31:38,928
- It is.
- And should the occasion
arise in peace or war,
1492
01:31:38,928 --> 01:31:40,928
and you thought
your superiors wrong,
1493
01:31:41,430 --> 01:31:42,929
would you rush
to the newspapers...
1494
01:31:43,430 --> 01:31:45,432
with attacks
against their behavior?
1495
01:31:45,432 --> 01:31:48,933
Objection. That question
is ridiculous and outrageous.
1496
01:31:48,933 --> 01:31:53,435
The witness is being asked to
speculate on his future conduct.
1497
01:31:53,435 --> 01:31:55,436
Why not? Why not,
if the witness
can speculate...
1498
01:31:55,436 --> 01:31:58,437
on the future conduct
of the world
and its armies?
1499
01:31:58,938 --> 01:32:01,438
The issue bears
on the only question
before this court--
1500
01:32:01,938 --> 01:32:05,441
Col. Mitchell's
qualifications to remain
in the United States Army.
1501
01:32:05,441 --> 01:32:07,442
I'll answer that, Major.
1502
01:32:08,942 --> 01:32:11,442
I don't know
what I would do tomorrow.
1503
01:32:11,442 --> 01:32:15,445
Then you don't know
if you could behave
as an army man.
1504
01:32:15,944 --> 01:32:18,447
- I didn't say that.
- Are you ready...
1505
01:32:18,447 --> 01:32:22,448
to give
unquestioned obedience
to your superiors,
1506
01:32:22,448 --> 01:32:26,950
even though you may
consider their conduct
negligent and incompetent?
1507
01:32:26,950 --> 01:32:29,952
I consider myself
a good soldier.
1508
01:32:29,952 --> 01:32:32,453
Oh. Well, now,
1509
01:32:33,954 --> 01:32:36,955
then you
have changed from
that William Mitchell...
1510
01:32:36,955 --> 01:32:39,956
who denounced
his superiors in Texas.
1511
01:32:39,956 --> 01:32:42,458
- I have not changed.
- Oh, then you still
insist upon...
1512
01:32:42,458 --> 01:32:44,959
your right
to break an army rule.
1513
01:32:44,959 --> 01:32:48,961
- I didn't say that either.
- I am merely trying
to establish...
1514
01:32:48,961 --> 01:32:53,464
your exact feelings
on the question
of insubordination.
1515
01:32:55,463 --> 01:32:57,965
Col. Mitchell,
1516
01:32:57,965 --> 01:33:00,467
what is
the first duty...
1517
01:33:00,467 --> 01:33:02,967
of a soldier
to his superior?
1518
01:33:04,969 --> 01:33:08,470
- We've been over that.
- Are you afraid
of the word, sir?
1519
01:33:09,970 --> 01:33:12,971
- What word?
- The word that
answers my question,
1520
01:33:13,473 --> 01:33:15,973
in all
the armies of the world,
1521
01:33:15,973 --> 01:33:18,475
is the word "obedience."
1522
01:33:18,475 --> 01:33:21,477
You're trying to quibble me
out of the army.
1523
01:33:21,977 --> 01:33:23,976
You know better than
to call me disobedient.
1524
01:33:23,976 --> 01:33:27,479
Col. Mitchell,
why didn't you
resign from the army...
1525
01:33:27,479 --> 01:33:30,479
and conduct your campaign
legitimately
from a civilian position?
1526
01:33:30,479 --> 01:33:33,482
Because
I'm an army man, sir.
1527
01:33:33,981 --> 01:33:38,484
And do you consider
your statement in Texas
justified?
1528
01:33:38,984 --> 01:33:41,986
Objection.
The witness is being asked
to pass judgment on himself.
1529
01:33:42,487 --> 01:33:47,488
- I'll answer. My--
- Col. Mitchell, you don't
have to answer that question.
1530
01:33:47,488 --> 01:33:49,989
Objection sustained.
1531
01:33:51,990 --> 01:33:55,992
In view, then, of your
present opinion...
1532
01:33:56,493 --> 01:34:00,994
that your superiors
are negligent
and incompetent,
1533
01:34:00,994 --> 01:34:04,496
could you give them
unquestioned obedience...
1534
01:34:04,496 --> 01:34:06,498
should you be
returned to duty?
1535
01:34:06,498 --> 01:34:10,499
I ask the court
to instruct the witness
not to answer that question.
1536
01:34:10,499 --> 01:34:13,001
I'll answer
that question too.
1537
01:34:13,001 --> 01:34:16,001
You have asked me
to state that I am unfit
to remain in the army...
1538
01:34:16,001 --> 01:34:21,504
because I have
incurred the hostility
of my superior officers.
1539
01:34:21,504 --> 01:34:25,506
I can't admit that,
and I won't.
1540
01:34:27,507 --> 01:34:30,509
I've been wearing the uniform
of the United States Army...
1541
01:34:31,008 --> 01:34:33,510
most of my adult life,
1542
01:34:33,510 --> 01:34:36,011
and I've worn it
with pride.
1543
01:34:36,512 --> 01:34:41,514
But if being a good soldier
is your kind
of good soldier,
1544
01:34:41,514 --> 01:34:45,615
of being unable
to think for himself
and say what he thinks,
1545
01:34:45,615 --> 01:34:50,519
of being narrow
and blind...
1546
01:34:50,519 --> 01:34:52,519
and insensible
to a higher duty,
1547
01:34:55,019 --> 01:34:58,021
you can have the uniform
and all that goes with it.
1548
01:34:58,021 --> 01:35:00,523
[ Spectators
Chattering Loudly ]
1549
01:35:02,523 --> 01:35:05,024
If trying to do something
for your country,
1550
01:35:06,525 --> 01:35:09,527
if fighting
to correct injustice...
1551
01:35:09,527 --> 01:35:12,027
is being a bad soldier,
1552
01:35:12,027 --> 01:35:15,029
then I'm glad
I'm a bad soldier.
1553
01:35:16,530 --> 01:35:21,032
This issue goes far beyond
being a good soldier in--
1554
01:35:21,032 --> 01:35:23,033
in his sense of the word.
1555
01:35:23,033 --> 01:35:25,034
It goes beyond
blind obedience...
1556
01:35:25,034 --> 01:35:29,036
and depends on--
on a man's faith...
1557
01:35:29,036 --> 01:35:33,037
in his knowledge
of what is right.
1558
01:35:36,039 --> 01:35:39,040
If being
a good soldier is...
1559
01:35:39,540 --> 01:35:44,042
submitting dumbly
and passively to--
1560
01:35:44,042 --> 01:35:48,044
to injustice, indecision
and complacency, then I'm--
1561
01:35:51,547 --> 01:35:53,547
[ Voice Breaking ]
I'm glad I'm a bad one.
1562
01:35:53,547 --> 01:35:56,049
[ Spectators
Chattering Loudly ]
1563
01:35:57,550 --> 01:35:59,551
Billy.
1564
01:36:03,551 --> 01:36:06,553
Thank you, Col. Mitchell.
1565
01:36:08,556 --> 01:36:11,556
That's all. No further
cross-examination.
1566
01:36:11,556 --> 01:36:13,557
The army rests its case.
1567
01:36:15,058 --> 01:36:18,059
Does the defense
wish to make
a closing statement?
1568
01:36:18,059 --> 01:36:21,059
The defense
has nothing further.
1569
01:36:21,059 --> 01:36:23,561
The court will retire
to consider its finding.
1570
01:36:36,066 --> 01:36:38,450
[ Spectators Chattering ]
1571
01:36:39,953 --> 01:36:42,953
[ No Audible Dialogue ]
1572
01:36:49,958 --> 01:36:51,958
Stand up when
the court enters!
1573
01:37:10,967 --> 01:37:12,968
The court
will come to order.
1574
01:37:14,469 --> 01:37:16,470
The accused will stand.
1575
01:37:24,472 --> 01:37:26,975
Col. William Mitchell,
1576
01:37:26,975 --> 01:37:28,975
the court,
in closed session...
1577
01:37:28,975 --> 01:37:31,477
and upon secret
written ballot,
1578
01:37:31,477 --> 01:37:33,978
two-thirds of the members
present at the time
this vote was taken...
1579
01:37:33,978 --> 01:37:35,980
concurring therein,
1580
01:37:35,980 --> 01:37:39,980
finds you, of all specifications
and the charge, guilty.
1581
01:37:39,980 --> 01:37:41,981
[ Spectators
Chattering Loudly ]
1582
01:37:43,983 --> 01:37:45,984
Order in the court.
1583
01:37:50,485 --> 01:37:52,486
The court,
again in closed session...
1584
01:37:52,987 --> 01:37:54,988
and upon secret
written ballot,
1585
01:37:54,988 --> 01:37:58,489
two-thirds of the members
present concurring therein,
1586
01:37:58,489 --> 01:38:03,492
sentences you to be
suspended from rank,
command and duty...
1587
01:38:03,492 --> 01:38:07,493
with forfeiture of all pay
and allowances for a period
of five years.
1588
01:38:07,493 --> 01:38:12,496
The court is thus lenient
because of your military
record during the World War.
1589
01:38:14,496 --> 01:38:16,498
The court has adjourned.
1590
01:38:26,503 --> 01:38:29,004
Do you have a statement
to make, Colonel?
Will you remain in Washington?
1591
01:38:29,503 --> 01:38:32,005
[ Reporters Shouting ]
1592
01:38:32,005 --> 01:38:35,007
No comment.
How do you feel about
the army now, Colonel?
1593
01:38:37,007 --> 01:38:41,010
The army owes me nothing.
I owe the army everything.
1594
01:38:41,010 --> 01:38:43,509
What do you intend
on doing--
[ Shouting Continues ]
1595
01:38:50,380 --> 01:38:51,381
Ten-hut!
[ Heels Click ]
1596
01:39:11,390 --> 01:39:13,390
Thank you, gentlemen.
1597
01:39:17,393 --> 01:39:19,395
Russ.
1598
01:39:21,395 --> 01:39:23,395
Carry on.
136733
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