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1
00:02:47,124 --> 00:02:50,128
Jimmy, how are you?
Billy, it's good
to see you.
2
00:02:50,128 --> 00:02:52,131
Admiral Sims,
General Mitchell.
3
00:02:52,632 --> 00:02:54,133
We've met.
4
00:02:54,634 --> 00:02:56,136
Mitchell,
you know Admiral Gage?
5
00:02:56,637 --> 00:02:58,138
We've exchanged
correspondence.
6
00:02:58,640 --> 00:03:01,660
This is Commander Landsdowne
of our lighter-than-air service.
7
00:03:01,660 --> 00:03:04,664
His dirigible
will patrol the area
during maneuvers.
8
00:03:04,664 --> 00:03:06,667
I know
the commander.
General Mitchell.
9
00:03:06,667 --> 00:03:09,170
I'd like to
clearly state, Billy,
10
00:03:09,170 --> 00:03:11,172
that I'm extremely
and utterly impartial...
11
00:03:11,172 --> 00:03:13,175
in your dispute
with the navy.
12
00:03:13,175 --> 00:03:15,177
That's why
the general staff
assigned me...
13
00:03:15,177 --> 00:03:18,181
to decide whether
to allow you to
carry out this mission.
14
00:03:18,181 --> 00:03:20,685
I assume you have
no objection to me.
15
00:03:20,685 --> 00:03:22,687
I wouldn't want
a fairer judge.
16
00:03:22,687 --> 00:03:25,691
Very well, then.
Admiral, will you state
the navy's position?
17
00:03:25,691 --> 00:03:30,197
That battleship
is the primary target
of our maneuvers.
18
00:03:30,197 --> 00:03:34,202
The air service believes
that it can be sunk
by aerial bombardment.
19
00:03:34,202 --> 00:03:36,204
The navy denies this...
20
00:03:36,204 --> 00:03:39,709
and asks that they
be allowed to sink it
with naval gunfire.
21
00:03:39,709 --> 00:03:42,713
Why does the navy feel
the ship can't be sunk
from the air?
22
00:03:42,713 --> 00:03:45,717
That ship
was once the pride
of the German navy--
23
00:03:46,217 --> 00:03:47,720
the battleship
Ostfriesland.
24
00:03:48,220 --> 00:03:50,723
The British called her
"the unsinkable Dreadnought."
25
00:03:51,224 --> 00:03:53,226
Are you aware
of these facts, General?
Yes, sir.
26
00:03:55,229 --> 00:03:57,231
Would you care to fly
back to Langley Field?
27
00:03:57,732 --> 00:04:00,235
I'll show you exactly
how I intend to sink her.
28
00:04:00,736 --> 00:04:02,739
Yes, I'll be glad to.
Gentlemen.
29
00:04:16,757 --> 00:04:19,761
What'd you think of that?
All hits or near misses.
Quite impressive.
30
00:04:20,261 --> 00:04:22,765
We'll send that scow
to the bottom
in nothing flat.
31
00:04:23,265 --> 00:04:25,267
Somebody's burning!
Someone's burning!
32
00:04:25,769 --> 00:04:27,771
Look! He's burning!
33
00:04:27,771 --> 00:04:30,775
Call out the crash truck
and the ambulance!
34
00:04:35,280 --> 00:04:38,284
Why doesn't he
use his parachute?
We have no parachutes.
35
00:05:02,816 --> 00:05:05,319
Are you all right,
Bob?
Yeah, I--
36
00:05:05,319 --> 00:05:08,323
I guess so.
I'm a little singed
around the edges.
37
00:05:10,325 --> 00:05:12,829
Here.
What happened?
38
00:05:12,829 --> 00:05:14,832
It's that fuel line.
39
00:05:14,832 --> 00:05:17,836
I smelled gas
in the cockpit
when I took off.
40
00:05:17,836 --> 00:05:20,839
Why'd you go up
when you knew
something was wrong?
41
00:05:22,341 --> 00:05:24,845
General,
if it isn't one thing,
it's another.
42
00:05:24,845 --> 00:05:27,848
Today it was that fuel line.
Yesterday
it was an oil pump.
43
00:05:27,848 --> 00:05:30,852
And last week
I almost lost a wing.
44
00:05:30,852 --> 00:05:33,355
And yet I'm luckier
than a lot of the guys.
45
00:05:34,857 --> 00:05:37,861
Now you see, Jimmy,
why I need money so badly.
46
00:05:37,861 --> 00:05:40,364
She certainly could
use some improvements.
47
00:05:40,364 --> 00:05:43,368
But that's not
an impressive weapon,
any way you take it.
48
00:05:43,368 --> 00:05:46,372
It can be. Come here.
I'd like to show you
something.
49
00:05:47,874 --> 00:05:49,877
Halt!
50
00:05:49,877 --> 00:05:52,379
Sentry, this is
General Guthrie.
51
00:05:52,379 --> 00:05:54,382
Give me a hand,
will you.
52
00:05:58,387 --> 00:06:00,390
Where'd you get those?
53
00:06:00,390 --> 00:06:03,394
I had Ordnance
make it up for me.
54
00:06:03,394 --> 00:06:05,396
One ton
of cast T.N.T.
55
00:06:05,396 --> 00:06:08,901
You're not trying to tell me
that your planes can carry
a 2,000-pound bomb.
56
00:06:08,901 --> 00:06:12,906
Of course they can.
They'll sink the battleship
as though it were a tin can.
57
00:06:12,906 --> 00:06:14,909
Let's be realistic,
Billy.
58
00:06:14,909 --> 00:06:18,413
A 2,000-pound bomb
is not practical
under wartime conditions.
59
00:06:18,413 --> 00:06:21,417
Maybe you'll
get it in the air,
but never to the target.
60
00:06:21,918 --> 00:06:23,921
That's exactly
what I want to do.
61
00:06:23,921 --> 00:06:26,924
Give me a chance,
and I'll show you
it can be done.
62
00:06:26,924 --> 00:06:29,928
On a staged exhibition, maybe,
but never in combat.
63
00:06:29,928 --> 00:06:32,932
How high do you want to fly?
I'd like to come in
at a thousand feet.
64
00:06:32,932 --> 00:06:37,437
You know as well as I do that
anti-aircraft will knock down
any planes lower than 5,000.
65
00:06:37,437 --> 00:06:39,440
Anti-aircraft?
66
00:06:39,440 --> 00:06:41,443
In a real fight,
67
00:06:41,443 --> 00:06:44,446
our pursuit ships
would be in there
strafing their decks.
68
00:06:44,446 --> 00:06:46,950
I have to be realistic
in this, Billy.
69
00:06:46,950 --> 00:06:49,954
After all,
we have performance figures
on our guns.
70
00:06:49,954 --> 00:06:52,457
But the airplane
is an unproved weapon.
71
00:06:52,457 --> 00:06:55,461
I'll prove it to you
if you'll let me.
72
00:06:55,962 --> 00:06:58,966
One of these days,
half the world will be
in ruins from the air.
73
00:06:59,466 --> 00:07:01,969
I want this country
to be in the other half.
74
00:07:02,470 --> 00:07:04,973
If I sink that ship,
we may have
a real air force.
75
00:07:05,473 --> 00:07:08,978
Where's the money coming from?
There's not enough to go around
for the army and navy now.
76
00:07:09,479 --> 00:07:12,482
Forget them.
The next war will be fought
in the sky anyway.
77
00:07:12,984 --> 00:07:15,987
No war is won
until a bayonet is put
to the throat of the enemy.
78
00:07:16,488 --> 00:07:18,991
The foot soldiers
won the last war,
and they'll win the next.
79
00:07:19,492 --> 00:07:21,995
In the end,
it's the infantry
who will lead the way.
80
00:07:22,495 --> 00:07:24,999
Yes, and we'll
blast the road for them.
81
00:07:25,499 --> 00:07:29,004
Your attitude isn't
helping your case any.
I'm sorry, sir.
82
00:07:29,004 --> 00:07:32,008
Well, then,
let's forget the next war.
83
00:07:32,008 --> 00:07:34,511
I'm in a war right now.
84
00:07:34,511 --> 00:07:36,513
My boys are dying
every week...
85
00:07:36,513 --> 00:07:39,517
in these obsolete,
moth-eaten, antiquated
flying machines.
86
00:07:40,018 --> 00:07:44,024
Let me get in there
and prove that
we're entitled to live.
87
00:07:44,524 --> 00:07:47,528
Billy, this test
is supposed to simulate
wartime conditions.
88
00:07:47,528 --> 00:07:50,531
If you come in
at a low level...
89
00:07:50,531 --> 00:07:53,535
and drop a bomb too big
ever to be practical,
90
00:07:53,535 --> 00:07:56,539
you're simply
staging an exhibition
for your own purposes...
91
00:07:56,539 --> 00:07:59,043
and you'll give
the wrong impression.
92
00:07:59,043 --> 00:08:03,548
Now, in order to be fair
to both sides, I'm going to
give you two cracks at her.
93
00:08:03,548 --> 00:08:07,553
But you'll have to come in
at 5,000 feet and carry
only the thousand-pound bombs.
94
00:08:07,553 --> 00:08:10,557
Five thousand feet?
Why, that'll rig it all
in favor of the navy.
95
00:08:11,058 --> 00:08:13,061
I'm sorry.
Those are your orders.
96
00:08:13,561 --> 00:08:16,565
Have you a car
available to take me back?
97
00:08:16,565 --> 00:08:18,567
Yes, sir.
98
00:08:24,575 --> 00:08:26,078
I'd like somebody
to tell me...
99
00:08:26,578 --> 00:08:29,582
why the taxpayers
of this country should
throw their money away...
100
00:08:29,582 --> 00:08:32,586
on a useless
military toy
called the airplane.
101
00:08:32,586 --> 00:08:36,091
The theory is, Senator,
it might come in handy
in time of war.
102
00:08:36,091 --> 00:08:39,094
War is a serious business,
Congressman Reid,
103
00:08:39,094 --> 00:08:41,097
and it's got to
be taken seriously.
104
00:08:41,597 --> 00:08:45,602
The taxpayers don't want
their money wasted on
a lot of silly kite-flyers.
105
00:08:46,103 --> 00:08:48,606
One six-inch naval gun
is worth the entire
air service.
106
00:08:49,107 --> 00:08:53,112
Exactly, and I think
it should be reduced to
its realistic proportions--
107
00:08:53,112 --> 00:08:56,116
an entertainment unit
for holiday parades
and state fairs.
108
00:08:58,119 --> 00:09:01,123
If we have another war,
Senator, I hope
you fight it personally.
109
00:09:11,136 --> 00:09:14,139
Gen. Mitchell has signaled,
requesting permission
to commence bombing.
110
00:09:14,139 --> 00:09:17,143
Has he reported his altitude?
He's at the
5,000-foot level, sir.
111
00:09:41,924 --> 00:09:43,427
He didn't even scratch her.
112
00:09:43,927 --> 00:09:46,431
I knew he couldn't sink her.
Sink her? He didn't
even touch her.
113
00:09:46,931 --> 00:09:50,436
- After all, the British fleet
couldn't sink it.
- I knew he could never do it.
114
00:10:07,958 --> 00:10:10,462
General,
I want new orders
for tomorrow.
115
00:10:10,462 --> 00:10:13,966
In what way?
I want to use
2,000-pound bombs.
116
00:10:13,966 --> 00:10:15,968
We've been
over that before.
117
00:10:15,968 --> 00:10:18,972
Request denied.
You're dismissed,
gentlemen.
118
00:10:20,475 --> 00:10:22,477
But, Jimmy,
with 2,000-pounders...
119
00:10:22,477 --> 00:10:24,480
I don't have to
hit the ship.
120
00:10:24,480 --> 00:10:27,484
Water concussion will
blow her bottom out.
I can prove it.
121
00:10:27,484 --> 00:10:30,487
A 2,000-pound bomb
is an unrealistic weapon.
122
00:10:30,487 --> 00:10:32,490
Make your run
as before.
123
00:10:32,490 --> 00:10:35,494
I'm not going out there
and make a fool
of the air service...
124
00:10:35,494 --> 00:10:38,498
in front of
40 foreign nations
and the world press.
125
00:10:38,498 --> 00:10:40,500
You will carry out
your orders.
126
00:10:41,502 --> 00:10:43,504
Let's--
Let's postpone the run.
127
00:10:43,504 --> 00:10:46,508
Let me off the hook
till I can figure something out.
128
00:10:46,508 --> 00:10:50,012
I think it would be
most unfortunate if you
were to sink that ship.
129
00:10:50,012 --> 00:10:52,516
What?
130
00:10:52,516 --> 00:10:55,520
Twice during my lifetime
this country's
gone to war...
131
00:10:55,520 --> 00:10:59,024
with an army untrained,
unequipped and unready.
132
00:10:59,024 --> 00:11:02,027
I don't want to go to war
that way again.
133
00:11:02,027 --> 00:11:05,532
But I might have to
if you can make Congress believe
this country can be defended...
134
00:11:05,532 --> 00:11:07,535
by airplanes alone.
135
00:11:07,535 --> 00:11:12,040
You will attack
from 5,000 feet
with 1,000-pound bombs.
136
00:11:12,542 --> 00:11:14,043
Good day, Billy.
137
00:11:14,544 --> 00:11:16,547
Go on, go on.
138
00:12:03,607 --> 00:12:05,610
What's going on,
boys?
139
00:12:15,122 --> 00:12:17,124
We've been talking.
140
00:12:17,124 --> 00:12:19,127
What about?
141
00:12:20,629 --> 00:12:22,632
We've come
to the conclusion...
142
00:12:22,632 --> 00:12:24,634
that we're just not
getting anyplace.
143
00:12:24,634 --> 00:12:26,637
I see.
144
00:12:26,637 --> 00:12:28,639
And?
145
00:12:28,639 --> 00:12:30,642
And...
146
00:12:33,145 --> 00:12:36,149
there just doesn't seem
to be any future, sir.
147
00:12:36,149 --> 00:12:38,151
Everything seems
kind of hopeless.
148
00:12:40,154 --> 00:12:43,158
So we've decided
to ask your advice...
149
00:12:43,158 --> 00:12:46,161
if we should resign
from the service.
150
00:12:58,177 --> 00:13:01,181
You want me to tell you
to quit flying?
151
00:13:02,683 --> 00:13:05,687
Sure, the planes
are no good and--
152
00:13:09,692 --> 00:13:11,695
and the pay is small,
153
00:13:13,697 --> 00:13:18,203
but 20 years from now
San Francisco will be
just a few hours from New York,
154
00:13:19,705 --> 00:13:24,210
and New York
will be a bombing run
from Berlin.
155
00:13:24,210 --> 00:13:27,715
The whole--
The whole world
will be in the air.
156
00:13:35,726 --> 00:13:39,230
Go ahead and quit
if you want to,
but don't ask me about it.
157
00:14:07,950 --> 00:14:10,454
Oh. Billy.
Come in.
158
00:14:11,455 --> 00:14:14,459
Oh, I-- I didn't think
you'd gone to bed yet.
159
00:14:14,459 --> 00:14:17,463
I'm sorry I woke you.
Go on back to sleep.
No, no, come in.
160
00:14:17,463 --> 00:14:19,465
Billy!
161
00:14:19,465 --> 00:14:21,468
What are you doing
in Washington?
162
00:14:21,468 --> 00:14:24,472
Well, I-- I didn't
mean to disturb you.
163
00:14:24,472 --> 00:14:27,476
I've just been
driving around,
thought you might be up.
164
00:14:27,476 --> 00:14:29,478
I'd better go.
Don't be silly.
165
00:14:29,478 --> 00:14:31,481
Can I get you
anything?
166
00:14:31,481 --> 00:14:33,483
No, thank you,
Margaret.
167
00:14:33,483 --> 00:14:35,986
I wouldn't be
very good company
tonight.
168
00:14:35,986 --> 00:14:39,991
You look tired.
Why don't you sit down.
I'll get you a glass of milk.
169
00:14:41,494 --> 00:14:43,496
I know how you feel,
Billy.
170
00:14:43,496 --> 00:14:45,999
It was tough luck
about the ship.
171
00:14:45,999 --> 00:14:48,001
Well, it's not only
the ship.
172
00:14:48,001 --> 00:14:50,004
The whole thing
has fallen apart.
173
00:14:50,004 --> 00:14:53,509
My boys came to me tonight.
They want to quit.
All of them.
174
00:14:53,509 --> 00:14:55,512
I'm not surprised.
175
00:14:55,512 --> 00:14:58,515
We all get a little discouraged
at one time or another.
176
00:14:58,515 --> 00:15:01,519
I've been thinking
maybe I've been wrong
about everything.
177
00:15:01,519 --> 00:15:03,522
Maybe men
weren't meant to fly.
178
00:15:03,522 --> 00:15:06,025
That doesn't sound
like you, Billy.
179
00:15:07,527 --> 00:15:10,030
When I got
to be a general,
I thought,
180
00:15:10,030 --> 00:15:14,035
Now I'll be able
to do things,
change the whole works.
181
00:15:14,035 --> 00:15:16,539
But they're
out to stop me.
182
00:15:16,539 --> 00:15:19,543
There's always
a bigger general.
183
00:15:19,543 --> 00:15:22,045
General Yesterday.
184
00:15:24,048 --> 00:15:27,052
No, thank you, Margaret.
I really don't care
for anything.
185
00:15:27,553 --> 00:15:30,056
You go back to bed,
and I'll go where I belong.
186
00:15:30,557 --> 00:15:32,058
Now, Billy,
drink this
and relax.
187
00:15:32,559 --> 00:15:34,562
You can't
possibly sleep
the way you are.
188
00:15:35,062 --> 00:15:37,065
Sleep?
189
00:15:37,566 --> 00:15:41,070
There's a little job
I have to figure out
for tomorrow--
190
00:15:41,571 --> 00:15:46,076
how to sink
a great, big, steel-covered,
unsinkable battleship...
191
00:15:46,076 --> 00:15:49,080
when my commanding officer
has made it impossible.
192
00:15:49,080 --> 00:15:51,584
You can't blame Guthrie
for that, Billy.
193
00:15:51,584 --> 00:15:53,586
He's just going
according to rules.
194
00:15:53,586 --> 00:15:57,090
That's the way we all
have to work-- by the book.
You know that.
195
00:15:57,090 --> 00:15:59,594
Sure.
We go by the book.
196
00:15:59,594 --> 00:16:04,099
Suppose some other country
throws away the book.
Then where are we?
197
00:16:04,099 --> 00:16:07,604
I've got to open their eyes
to what can happen.
198
00:16:14,112 --> 00:16:16,115
I've got to
sink that battleship.
199
00:16:16,616 --> 00:16:19,119
You can't do
the impossible.
200
00:16:19,620 --> 00:16:21,622
I can try.
201
00:16:24,125 --> 00:16:28,130
Zach, will you
call Langley Field,
ask for Russ Peters,
202
00:16:28,130 --> 00:16:32,135
tell him to get the boys up
and say I'm on my way
back there now.
203
00:16:32,135 --> 00:16:35,640
Now? Oh, can't you
wait till morning?
204
00:16:35,640 --> 00:16:38,644
No, there's--
there's something
I've got to do tonight.
205
00:16:38,644 --> 00:16:41,147
And you know what?
206
00:16:41,147 --> 00:16:43,150
I'm scared to death.
207
00:16:43,150 --> 00:16:47,155
But Zach'll tell you
that's normal
for a flyer.
208
00:16:47,155 --> 00:16:49,658
Billy, what are you
going to do?
209
00:16:49,658 --> 00:16:51,661
You'll hear about it.
210
00:16:51,661 --> 00:16:54,665
Don't forget that call,
will you, Zach?
Good night, kids.
211
00:16:54,665 --> 00:16:56,667
Good night, Billy.
Night, Billy.
212
00:17:03,676 --> 00:17:06,179
What is this
all about?
I don't know.
213
00:17:06,179 --> 00:17:08,182
Call came
from Washington.
214
00:17:24,704 --> 00:17:26,706
What's up,
General?
215
00:17:28,208 --> 00:17:31,211
There's been a change
in orders, boys.
216
00:17:31,713 --> 00:17:34,716
We go in at low level today
with 2,000-pound bombs.
217
00:17:35,217 --> 00:17:37,720
Hey, now you're talkin'!
That's more like it!
When do we start?
218
00:17:38,220 --> 00:17:40,223
How did you work it,
General?
Never mind.
219
00:17:40,724 --> 00:17:43,728
Get the ordnance men out
and start loading.
220
00:17:44,729 --> 00:17:46,732
General.
221
00:17:48,734 --> 00:17:51,237
Is this really
on the level, sir?
222
00:17:51,738 --> 00:17:53,240
Did new orders
really come through?
223
00:17:53,741 --> 00:17:56,745
You heard what I said,
didn't you?
Yes, sir.
224
00:17:58,246 --> 00:17:59,749
General.
225
00:18:01,751 --> 00:18:05,255
This is a strange
time of night for orders
to come out, sir.
226
00:18:05,255 --> 00:18:08,760
Are you sure
you're not just
doing this on your own?
227
00:18:08,760 --> 00:18:10,763
Don't you worry
about that, Russ.
228
00:18:10,763 --> 00:18:14,267
You just get out there
on the field
and get those planes ready.
229
00:18:14,267 --> 00:18:16,770
Okay?
Yes, sir.
230
00:18:51,448 --> 00:18:54,452
What are they doing?
They're dropping down
for a low-level attack.
231
00:18:54,452 --> 00:18:56,455
But that's
against the rules!
232
00:18:59,459 --> 00:19:01,961
Did you
authorize this?
Absolutely not.
233
00:19:18,099 --> 00:19:21,737
How was that for
a military toy, Senator?
234
00:19:37,758 --> 00:19:41,263
"General Mitchell's
whole course
has been so lawless,
235
00:19:41,263 --> 00:19:44,267
"so lacking
in reasonable teamwork,
236
00:19:44,267 --> 00:19:47,771
"so indicative of
a personal ambition for
his branch of the service...
237
00:19:47,771 --> 00:19:51,276
"at the expense
of everyone with whom
he is associated...
238
00:19:51,276 --> 00:19:54,780
"that his actions
render him unfit for a high
administrative position...
239
00:19:54,780 --> 00:19:56,782
"such as he now occupies.
240
00:19:57,283 --> 00:19:59,286
"The secretary of war
hereby directs...
241
00:19:59,786 --> 00:20:02,290
"that Brigadier General
William Mitchell...
242
00:20:02,290 --> 00:20:04,793
"be relieved
of his command
in the air service...
243
00:20:04,793 --> 00:20:07,796
"and be assigned to duty
at Fort Sam Houston, Texas.
244
00:20:07,796 --> 00:20:09,799
"To accommodate
his new duties,
245
00:20:09,799 --> 00:20:12,803
General Mitchell
will revert
to the rank of colonel."
246
00:20:14,305 --> 00:20:17,309
Would you excuse us,
gentlemen?
247
00:20:26,321 --> 00:20:29,825
Progress is necessary...
248
00:20:29,825 --> 00:20:32,328
in an army, Billy,
249
00:20:32,328 --> 00:20:35,832
but you've first
got to have an army.
250
00:20:35,832 --> 00:20:38,836
There's no progress...
251
00:20:38,836 --> 00:20:42,341
if your officers
are undisciplined.
252
00:20:42,341 --> 00:20:45,845
I put my star on the line
for something I believe in,
253
00:20:45,845 --> 00:20:47,848
and I lost.
254
00:20:47,848 --> 00:20:50,352
Your contribution
is on record, Colonel.
255
00:20:50,352 --> 00:20:52,854
It won't be lost.
I hope not, sir.
256
00:20:53,356 --> 00:20:55,358
But there's more
at stake than me.
257
00:20:55,358 --> 00:20:58,362
It's the air service.
258
00:20:58,362 --> 00:21:00,865
It's a new weapon,
a big one.
259
00:21:00,865 --> 00:21:02,867
The biggest
in the world.
260
00:21:04,870 --> 00:21:06,372
Put me down
another step.
261
00:21:06,872 --> 00:21:10,377
Make me a captain, sir,
but let me stay
in the air with my boys.
262
00:21:14,883 --> 00:21:16,885
Sorry, Billy.
263
00:21:21,392 --> 00:21:22,893
Anything else?
264
00:21:23,394 --> 00:21:25,397
No, sir.
265
00:21:25,897 --> 00:21:28,401
It's not so bad
in Texas, Billy.
266
00:21:28,901 --> 00:21:30,903
I've been there.
267
00:21:36,160 --> 00:21:38,162
Yes, sir,
General.
268
00:21:38,162 --> 00:21:41,166
Without a doubt,
your fort ranks
at the top of the list...
269
00:21:41,166 --> 00:21:44,170
of the military
establishments we've
visited on our tour.
270
00:21:44,170 --> 00:21:46,173
That's right,
General.
271
00:21:46,173 --> 00:21:48,175
That's mighty fine
of you gentlemen.
272
00:21:48,175 --> 00:21:50,679
A little more,
Congressman?
No, thank you, General.
273
00:21:50,679 --> 00:21:53,683
There's a request I'd
like to make though.
Certainly, Mr. Reid.
274
00:21:53,683 --> 00:21:57,688
There's one of your officers
I'd like to talk to.
Could I see Col. Mitchell?
275
00:21:57,688 --> 00:22:00,692
Mitchell? Why, of course.
I'll send for him
right away.
276
00:22:00,692 --> 00:22:03,696
No need to take him
away from his duties.
I just want to say hello.
277
00:22:03,696 --> 00:22:06,700
If somebody could
show me where he is,
I can find my way back.
278
00:22:06,700 --> 00:22:08,702
Why, of course,
of course.
279
00:22:09,202 --> 00:22:10,705
It is recommended...
280
00:22:11,205 --> 00:22:15,711
that said shed be located
within 20 yards
of the machine shop...
281
00:22:16,211 --> 00:22:18,214
and be of
sufficient capacity...
282
00:22:18,214 --> 00:22:21,719
for the storage
of spare parts as well.
283
00:22:21,719 --> 00:22:23,721
Suggested dimensions are--
284
00:22:23,721 --> 00:22:27,225
Thanks very much.
I'll find my way back.
285
00:22:27,225 --> 00:22:30,229
Frank!
What are you doing here?
286
00:22:30,229 --> 00:22:33,233
I'm on a junket.
Thought I'd drop around,
see how you are.
287
00:22:33,233 --> 00:22:36,738
Well, I lost my stars,
but I still have all my buttons.
288
00:22:36,738 --> 00:22:40,743
Gee, I'm glad to see you.
How are things in Washington?
Give me the news.
289
00:22:40,743 --> 00:22:43,246
There hasn't been any
since you left.
290
00:22:43,246 --> 00:22:45,249
Sergeant, take these
to Major Anderson.
291
00:22:45,249 --> 00:22:47,251
Tell him
they're okay.
Yes, sir.
292
00:22:48,253 --> 00:22:51,256
How are all my boys?
Have you seen them?
293
00:22:51,256 --> 00:22:53,760
The ones that are left
are all right.
294
00:22:53,760 --> 00:22:56,764
Have you seen Russ Peters?
I haven't heard
from him lately.
295
00:22:56,764 --> 00:22:58,767
He's all right.
296
00:22:58,767 --> 00:23:01,770
He's better off
than you are.
297
00:23:01,770 --> 00:23:05,274
This climate must remind you
of your Philippines campaign.
298
00:23:05,274 --> 00:23:07,277
Nobody's shooting
at me here.
299
00:23:07,277 --> 00:23:10,281
The heat should be great
for your malaria.
300
00:23:10,281 --> 00:23:12,785
I haven't had
a chill all summer.
301
00:23:12,785 --> 00:23:17,290
Say, Frank, do you know
if the army's ordered any of
those new Ford Tri-motors?
302
00:23:17,290 --> 00:23:19,292
I know. No.
303
00:23:19,292 --> 00:23:21,295
They're a wonderful
airplane.
304
00:23:21,295 --> 00:23:24,800
Isn't there something
you can do about it?
They won't listen to me.
305
00:23:24,800 --> 00:23:26,803
What areyou
gonna do about it?
306
00:23:26,803 --> 00:23:29,806
All I can do.
I'll write another letter
to headquarters.
307
00:23:29,806 --> 00:23:32,810
I write one every day.
Sometimes two.
Ah.
308
00:23:32,810 --> 00:23:36,314
Billy, they just put up
a new building in Washington
for letters like that.
309
00:23:36,314 --> 00:23:39,318
It's built in the shape
of a wastepaper basket.
310
00:23:39,318 --> 00:23:41,321
I'm the man
that can fill it.
311
00:23:41,321 --> 00:23:43,825
It's disgraceful
what they're doing
to you, Billy.
312
00:23:43,825 --> 00:23:46,828
You may not know it,
but you've got
plenty of friends,
313
00:23:46,828 --> 00:23:48,831
and I'm speaking
for all of them.
314
00:23:48,831 --> 00:23:52,335
Give us the word, and--
I'm sorry, Frank, but politics
and the army don't mix.
315
00:23:52,335 --> 00:23:56,841
All right, if you can't
tolerate politics in the army,
how about outside the army?
316
00:23:56,841 --> 00:24:00,345
Why don't you quit
and run for the Senate?
Wisconsin would elect you.
317
00:24:00,345 --> 00:24:02,348
You could take
your father's old seat.
318
00:24:02,348 --> 00:24:05,352
He was a great senator,
and you'd be
every bit as good.
319
00:24:05,352 --> 00:24:08,356
With you in the Senate
and me in the House,
320
00:24:08,356 --> 00:24:11,359
we'd squeeze an air service
out of them that'd
blacken the sky with planes.
321
00:24:11,359 --> 00:24:13,362
I'm not a politician,
Frank.
322
00:24:13,362 --> 00:24:16,867
I don't want to
turn the air service
into a political football.
323
00:24:16,867 --> 00:24:19,871
Besides, how would I look
in a winged collar
and a frock coat?
324
00:24:19,871 --> 00:24:21,873
I'd look great,
wouldn't I?
325
00:24:21,873 --> 00:24:24,877
Billy Mitchell,
I don't know why
I bother with you.
326
00:24:24,877 --> 00:24:27,881
You won't do anything
that makes sense.
We're both professional men.
327
00:24:27,881 --> 00:24:30,885
You work by your rules.
Let me work by mine.
Some rules.
328
00:24:30,885 --> 00:24:34,389
It's the same set of rules
that has your boys falling out
of the sky in flaming coffins.
329
00:24:34,389 --> 00:24:36,392
They're dying
by those rules.
330
00:24:37,393 --> 00:24:39,897
But at least
they go quick.
331
00:24:39,897 --> 00:24:42,900
You're just
sitting around here
rotting away.
332
00:24:42,900 --> 00:24:46,405
I must be too stupid
to understand the military mind.
333
00:24:46,405 --> 00:24:48,908
I guess you have to be
born with one.
334
00:24:53,414 --> 00:24:55,917
Well...
335
00:24:55,917 --> 00:24:57,920
so long, Billy.
336
00:24:57,920 --> 00:24:59,922
Don't get
writer's cramp.
337
00:25:07,933 --> 00:25:10,937
Sergeant,
cancel my reservation
to Milwaukee.
338
00:25:10,937 --> 00:25:14,441
Yes, sir.
Check the train schedules
to Washington, D.C.
339
00:25:14,441 --> 00:25:16,443
I'm taking my leave
there.
340
00:25:37,971 --> 00:25:39,473
Good afternoon, sir.
341
00:25:39,974 --> 00:25:41,976
How do things look
today?
Not very good, I'm afraid.
342
00:25:43,478 --> 00:25:45,480
Now, listen here.
343
00:25:45,480 --> 00:25:48,484
For two weeks
I've been trying
to see General Pershing,
344
00:25:48,484 --> 00:25:52,991
and for two weeks you've been
telling me to come around again
in a couple of days.
345
00:25:54,993 --> 00:25:57,997
I want
a definite appointment
with the general,
346
00:25:57,997 --> 00:26:00,500
and I want to
talk to him today.
347
00:26:00,500 --> 00:26:03,504
I'm sorry, sir.
General Pershing
has been very busy.
348
00:26:03,504 --> 00:26:07,509
If I may suggest you try
some other department--
You told me that before.
349
00:26:07,509 --> 00:26:09,511
And I've tried.
350
00:26:09,511 --> 00:26:11,514
They've all referred me
back here.
351
00:26:11,514 --> 00:26:14,018
Gen. Pershing
is the only one
who can help me.
352
00:26:14,518 --> 00:26:17,022
Colonel, a great many people
want to see the general.
353
00:26:17,522 --> 00:26:20,025
You must realize his time
is extremely valuable.
354
00:26:20,025 --> 00:26:24,031
I'm here to try to
save lives, not time.
355
00:26:24,031 --> 00:26:27,034
And if you'll forgive me
for saying so, Colonel,
356
00:26:27,034 --> 00:26:32,041
I think the lives of flyers
are equally as important
as the general's time.
357
00:26:32,041 --> 00:26:36,546
Gen. Pershing has an important
staff meeting scheduled
for the remainder of the day.
358
00:26:39,550 --> 00:26:41,553
Thank you, Colonel.
359
00:26:41,553 --> 00:26:43,555
You're welcome, sir.
360
00:27:00,577 --> 00:27:02,580
Hello,
General Pershing.
361
00:27:02,580 --> 00:27:04,582
I'm glad
I ran into you.
362
00:27:04,582 --> 00:27:07,586
I have nothing
to say to you, Billy.
363
00:27:32,118 --> 00:27:34,121
Billy!
364
00:27:34,121 --> 00:27:36,123
Hello, Margaret.
365
00:27:39,127 --> 00:27:42,131
Well, there's been
a few improvements.
366
00:27:43,132 --> 00:27:45,135
Including you.
You're prettier than ever.
367
00:27:45,135 --> 00:27:48,139
How's Zach?
He's fine.
He'll be home later.
368
00:27:48,139 --> 00:27:51,143
Oh, my, it's good
to see you again.
We've missed you.
369
00:27:51,143 --> 00:27:53,145
And needed you.
370
00:27:53,145 --> 00:27:55,648
I'll set another place.
Can't stay for dinner.
371
00:27:55,648 --> 00:27:59,153
I have to catch a train
for Texas.
We heard you were in Washington.
372
00:27:59,153 --> 00:28:03,658
I tried to drop around sooner,
but I couldn't
get off the flypaper.
373
00:28:03,658 --> 00:28:08,665
I hope our army
is as invincible in the field
as it is in its offices.
374
00:28:08,665 --> 00:28:10,667
Yes, I know.
375
00:28:10,667 --> 00:28:13,171
Zach's been after
the navy department...
376
00:28:13,171 --> 00:28:15,174
about theShenandoah.
377
00:28:15,174 --> 00:28:18,177
They want him
to take it
to Detroit,
378
00:28:18,177 --> 00:28:20,180
to a state fair.
379
00:28:20,180 --> 00:28:23,184
Is that old river cow
still around?
380
00:28:23,684 --> 00:28:25,186
Hi, honey.
Hello, darling.
381
00:28:25,687 --> 00:28:27,189
Billy!
382
00:28:27,689 --> 00:28:30,193
Gee, I'm glad to see you.
I called the club.
How are you?
383
00:28:30,693 --> 00:28:32,696
You're looking
great.
Feeling fine.
384
00:28:33,197 --> 00:28:35,699
Except for a couple
of sore feet
and a slightly sore head.
385
00:28:36,201 --> 00:28:38,203
Yeah, I heard.
It's a shame.
386
00:28:38,703 --> 00:28:41,207
How do you happen
to be home so early, Zach?
387
00:28:41,707 --> 00:28:43,210
Orders came through.
388
00:28:44,711 --> 00:28:46,714
What orders?
389
00:28:46,714 --> 00:28:49,717
We're taking theShenandoahup
in the morning.
Oh, no!
390
00:28:49,717 --> 00:28:52,221
It'll be all right, honey.
Don't worry.
391
00:28:52,221 --> 00:28:55,225
But you said you wouldn't
take her up again.
I did everything I could.
392
00:28:55,225 --> 00:28:58,229
I kept arguing
till the order came through.
You can't stop now.
393
00:28:58,229 --> 00:29:01,733
You said you'd never take
her up this time of year.
Honey, I've got my orders.
394
00:29:01,733 --> 00:29:04,737
I'd understand
if it were a war
or even a maneuver,
395
00:29:04,737 --> 00:29:07,241
but they're
just doing it
for publicity.
396
00:29:07,241 --> 00:29:10,244
The publicity's
supposed to make Congress
vote us money.
397
00:29:10,244 --> 00:29:13,248
Please tell him not to go.
You're the only one
he'll listen to.
398
00:29:13,248 --> 00:29:15,751
Margaret, please--
Don't worry about it,
Margaret.
399
00:29:15,751 --> 00:29:18,755
It's a lousy balloon,
but it'll have
a good crew aboard...
400
00:29:18,755 --> 00:29:21,259
and a good skipper.
401
00:29:21,259 --> 00:29:25,764
Besides, if the navy's
not worrying about it,
why should you?
402
00:29:27,266 --> 00:29:29,269
Look, I've got
to run now.
403
00:29:29,269 --> 00:29:32,273
I'll be back for another
crack at Washington
in a few months,
404
00:29:32,273 --> 00:29:35,777
and we'll-- we'll have
a real reunion then, hmm?
405
00:29:35,777 --> 00:29:38,280
Do you have
a car outside?
No.
406
00:29:38,280 --> 00:29:40,283
I'll help you
flag a cab.
407
00:29:40,283 --> 00:29:42,786
Good-bye,
Margaret.
408
00:29:42,786 --> 00:29:45,289
Be right back, honey.
409
00:29:49,295 --> 00:29:51,297
How bad is
theShenandoah?
410
00:29:53,300 --> 00:29:55,802
In this weather,
it's a deathtrap.
411
00:29:55,802 --> 00:29:59,307
Then why do you
take it up?
I've got my orders.
412
00:29:59,307 --> 00:30:02,828
You could disobey them.
Are you
out of your mind?
413
00:30:02,828 --> 00:30:04,831
No.
414
00:30:04,831 --> 00:30:08,336
But you are, if you
follow orders that send you
and your crew to your deaths.
415
00:30:08,336 --> 00:30:10,339
Billy, you know
better than that.
416
00:30:10,339 --> 00:30:14,344
If I refuse to go up,
then I'm relieved of command
and get a general court.
417
00:30:14,344 --> 00:30:16,847
Someone else takes her up.
What have I accomplished?
418
00:30:16,847 --> 00:30:20,852
At least you'll have
brought attention to the fact
that the flight is unsafe.
419
00:30:20,852 --> 00:30:24,857
That isn't the point.
Drawing attention to it
isn't gonna save the men.
420
00:30:24,857 --> 00:30:28,862
And I'm better qualified
to fly my ship than
any replacement would be.
421
00:30:28,862 --> 00:30:30,865
Zach, don't you see?
422
00:30:30,865 --> 00:30:32,867
If you refuse to take
that thing up,
423
00:30:32,867 --> 00:30:35,871
there'll be
such an unholy row
that it might never take off.
424
00:30:35,871 --> 00:30:37,874
Yeah, maybe.
425
00:30:37,874 --> 00:30:39,876
But why should I
stick my neck out...
426
00:30:39,876 --> 00:30:42,880
on the improbable chance
that they might
ground the ship?
427
00:30:42,880 --> 00:30:46,385
No, it doesn't make sense.
What's your neck compared to
the whole future of aviation?
428
00:30:46,385 --> 00:30:50,390
How much are you doing
for the future of aviation
buried in Texas?
429
00:30:50,390 --> 00:30:52,393
Never mind about me.
430
00:30:52,393 --> 00:30:54,395
We're talking
about you.
Mm-hmm.
431
00:30:54,395 --> 00:30:56,398
Well, there's not much
I could do...
432
00:30:56,398 --> 00:30:58,901
if I were court-martialed
and dismissed
from the service.
433
00:30:58,901 --> 00:31:00,903
There'll be
no service left...
434
00:31:00,903 --> 00:31:03,407
unless people know
how bad things are,
435
00:31:03,407 --> 00:31:05,409
unless it's shown to them.
436
00:31:05,409 --> 00:31:07,412
You must think that over.
437
00:31:07,412 --> 00:31:10,416
I don't have to
think it over.
I've got my orders.
438
00:31:10,416 --> 00:31:12,418
This flight
has been studied out.
439
00:31:12,418 --> 00:31:14,421
They're taking
a calculated risk.
440
00:31:14,921 --> 00:31:16,924
"Calculated risk"?
Uh--
441
00:31:19,428 --> 00:31:22,431
You're staking
the lives of your crew...
442
00:31:22,932 --> 00:31:25,935
to protect your career
in the navy.
443
00:31:48,465 --> 00:31:50,483
Oh, hello, Billy.
444
00:31:50,483 --> 00:31:52,486
Sit down.
Sit down.
445
00:31:52,486 --> 00:31:54,489
Terrible thing,
thisShenandoahbusiness.
446
00:31:54,489 --> 00:31:56,491
It's all over
the front pages.
447
00:31:56,491 --> 00:31:58,494
Makes all the services
look bad.
448
00:31:58,494 --> 00:32:00,997
Tough enough
getting recruits
as it is.
449
00:32:01,999 --> 00:32:05,003
What did you want to
see me about, Billy?
450
00:32:05,003 --> 00:32:07,005
I request
the general's
permission...
451
00:32:07,005 --> 00:32:10,509
to attend the funeral
of Cmdr. Zachary Lansdowne
at Arlington Cemetery.
452
00:32:10,509 --> 00:32:13,513
Was he a friend of yours?
A close friend, sir.
453
00:32:13,513 --> 00:32:15,516
Why, sure, sure.
Go ahead.
454
00:32:15,516 --> 00:32:17,518
Emergency leave
granted.
455
00:32:17,518 --> 00:32:19,521
Thank you, sir.
456
00:32:23,526 --> 00:32:25,529
Oh, wait a minute, Billy.
457
00:32:25,529 --> 00:32:28,032
You're one of
those flyboys yourself.
458
00:32:28,032 --> 00:32:31,036
I don't know
how headquarters
is reacting to this.
459
00:32:31,036 --> 00:32:33,539
Public opinion may be
running very high.
460
00:32:33,539 --> 00:32:35,541
Reporters running
all over the place...
461
00:32:35,541 --> 00:32:38,045
covering the funeral
and asking questions.
462
00:32:38,045 --> 00:32:41,049
Better let me
get a confirmation
from Washington...
463
00:32:41,049 --> 00:32:43,052
before you take off.
464
00:32:43,052 --> 00:32:47,057
May I ask
the general's permission
to withdraw my request, sir?
465
00:32:47,057 --> 00:32:50,061
You mean you don't want me
to get a confirmation?
466
00:32:50,061 --> 00:32:52,063
No, sir.
467
00:32:52,063 --> 00:32:54,066
Whatever you say.
468
00:32:54,066 --> 00:32:56,068
Thank you, sir.
469
00:32:58,571 --> 00:33:00,574
"Tea for Two" ]
470
00:33:00,574 --> 00:33:04,579
Heard the news? Those planes
making the nonstop to Mexico
are reported lost.
471
00:33:04,579 --> 00:33:06,581
Where'd you get that?
472
00:33:06,581 --> 00:33:09,585
My gunny says he heard it
over the radio.
473
00:33:09,585 --> 00:33:12,589
How does he know they're lost?
He didn't know.
That's all he told me.
474
00:33:12,589 --> 00:33:14,592
Wait a minute.
475
00:33:14,592 --> 00:33:16,594
We interrupt
this broadcast...
476
00:33:16,594 --> 00:33:18,597
to bring you
a news bulletin.
477
00:33:18,597 --> 00:33:21,100
In the greatest disaster
in aviation history,
478
00:33:21,100 --> 00:33:24,604
six planes en route from
San Diego to Fort Huachuca
have crashed.
479
00:33:24,604 --> 00:33:28,110
The flight was composed
of members of the famous
Billy Mitchell squadron...
480
00:33:28,110 --> 00:33:31,113
which, in 1921,
bombed and sank
the battleshipOstfriesland.
481
00:33:31,113 --> 00:33:33,116
Ground parties
have been dispatched...
482
00:33:33,116 --> 00:33:36,120
to the rugged
mountain area near
the Mexican border...
483
00:33:36,120 --> 00:33:38,122
to search for
possible survivors.
484
00:33:38,122 --> 00:33:41,626
We now return you
to our program.
485
00:33:47,384 --> 00:33:49,387
I've asked you gentlemen
of the press to come here...
486
00:33:49,387 --> 00:33:51,890
because I want to
make a statement.
487
00:33:54,894 --> 00:33:57,898
Flying is a very
dangerous business,
488
00:33:59,399 --> 00:34:03,405
and a normal
amount of accidents
are to be expected.
489
00:34:04,907 --> 00:34:08,411
But these
recent disasters...
490
00:34:08,411 --> 00:34:10,915
of theShenandoah...
491
00:34:10,915 --> 00:34:14,920
and the planes of the army
of the Mexican flight...
492
00:34:15,420 --> 00:34:17,924
are outside the range
of normal accidents.
493
00:34:19,926 --> 00:34:22,930
I would not be keeping faith
with my dead comrades...
494
00:34:22,930 --> 00:34:24,933
if I kept quiet
any longer.
495
00:34:26,434 --> 00:34:28,437
These--
These accidents...
496
00:34:28,437 --> 00:34:30,941
are the direct result of--
497
00:34:32,442 --> 00:34:33,944
of incompetence,
498
00:34:34,445 --> 00:34:36,447
criminal negligence...
499
00:34:36,447 --> 00:34:41,955
and the almost
treasonable administration
of our national defense...
500
00:34:41,955 --> 00:34:43,957
by the navy...
501
00:34:43,957 --> 00:34:46,460
and the war department.
502
00:34:47,962 --> 00:34:50,465
That is my statement.
503
00:34:50,465 --> 00:34:52,468
Well, that's
sure somethin'.
504
00:34:52,468 --> 00:34:54,470
Is this off the cuff?
You want us to print it?
505
00:34:54,971 --> 00:34:56,473
It's a statement
for publication.
506
00:34:56,974 --> 00:34:58,977
Baby, is this gonna
blow some brass tops off.
507
00:34:58,977 --> 00:35:00,979
Would you mind
initialing that?
508
00:35:00,979 --> 00:35:02,982
Colonel, my editor's
an ex-army man.
509
00:35:03,482 --> 00:35:05,986
He may call you
to verify this.
Do you mind?
No.
510
00:35:06,486 --> 00:35:08,990
I don't know anything about
army procedure, Colonel,
511
00:35:09,490 --> 00:35:10,992
but couldn't you
be court-martialed for this?
512
00:35:11,492 --> 00:35:13,495
That's exactly
what I want.
513
00:35:51,044 --> 00:35:53,546
Colonel Mitchell?
514
00:35:53,546 --> 00:35:55,549
Major.
515
00:35:55,549 --> 00:35:57,551
By order of
the secretary of war,
516
00:35:58,053 --> 00:36:00,055
you've been placed
in arrest, sir.
517
00:36:00,055 --> 00:36:03,059
I've been ordered to
serve on you the charge sheet
and court-martial papers.
518
00:36:03,059 --> 00:36:05,062
Thank you.
519
00:36:05,062 --> 00:36:08,065
I'm instructed to tell you
that you're restricted
to the Washington area.
520
00:36:08,065 --> 00:36:11,069
You will remember at all times
that you are in arrest
and deport yourself accordingly.
521
00:36:11,069 --> 00:36:13,072
I understand, Major.
522
00:36:13,072 --> 00:36:16,076
Report to the office
of the adjutant general
by noon tomorrow,
523
00:36:16,076 --> 00:36:17,577
where your quarters
will be.
524
00:36:18,078 --> 00:36:20,081
Is that all?
Yes, sir.
525
00:36:20,581 --> 00:36:24,086
Now that that's over,
will you gentlemen join me
in a cup of coffee?
526
00:36:25,588 --> 00:36:27,590
Thank you, sir.
I really don't quite--
527
00:36:28,091 --> 00:36:30,094
That's okay, Major.
Carry on.
528
00:36:46,114 --> 00:36:47,616
Mitchell.
529
00:36:49,118 --> 00:36:51,121
Good morning,
General Guthrie.
530
00:36:51,121 --> 00:36:54,625
I don't suppose
it's occurred to you
to resign.
531
00:36:54,625 --> 00:36:57,629
Resign under fire?
Not a chance, sir.
532
00:36:57,629 --> 00:37:00,132
I must say
I'm sorry, Mitchell.
533
00:37:00,132 --> 00:37:02,135
Sorry for the army.
534
00:37:10,512 --> 00:37:11,514
Good afternoon,
Colonel Mitchell.
Hello.
535
00:37:11,514 --> 00:37:13,516
I'll send it
right up.
536
00:37:16,019 --> 00:37:20,024
Welcome back. It's good
to see you again, sir.
Thank you, Phil.
537
00:37:20,024 --> 00:37:23,028
Can I have
my old room?
It's ready for you, sir.
538
00:37:25,031 --> 00:37:28,034
Excuse me.
You're Col. Mitchell,
aren't you?
Yes.
539
00:37:28,034 --> 00:37:30,037
I'm Lt. Col. White.
540
00:37:30,037 --> 00:37:33,041
I've been appointed
your defense counsel
by the judge advocate general.
541
00:37:33,041 --> 00:37:36,045
I'm glad to see you.
Come up to my room.
We can talk there.
542
00:37:36,045 --> 00:37:38,047
Fine.
543
00:37:42,053 --> 00:37:44,556
I assume, sir,
that you've been served.
544
00:37:44,556 --> 00:37:46,559
Got them right here.
545
00:37:46,559 --> 00:37:50,063
I don't think there'll
be much for you to do.
It's an open-and-shut case.
546
00:37:50,063 --> 00:37:52,065
Is it?
547
00:37:55,069 --> 00:37:57,072
Oh, yes, I'm guilty.
548
00:37:57,072 --> 00:37:59,074
Definitely.
549
00:37:59,074 --> 00:38:01,077
You'll plead guilty?
550
00:38:01,077 --> 00:38:05,583
No, I guess I'll have to
plead not guilty
if I want my day in court.
551
00:38:08,086 --> 00:38:11,090
You mean, you, uh--
you did it
deliberately?
552
00:38:11,090 --> 00:38:14,094
I had to make somebody
listen to me.
553
00:38:15,095 --> 00:38:17,599
You chose the hard way,
Colonel.
554
00:38:17,599 --> 00:38:20,101
I know it,
and I haven't
got a chance,
555
00:38:20,101 --> 00:38:23,105
but I want to
go through with it
anyway.
556
00:38:23,105 --> 00:38:25,609
Sound crazy,
don't I?
No, sir.
557
00:38:25,609 --> 00:38:28,112
No, I, uh,
I think I understand.
558
00:38:28,112 --> 00:38:30,615
Have the members
of the court
been announced?
559
00:38:30,615 --> 00:38:33,619
Just came through.
I saw General Guthrie
downstairs.
560
00:38:33,619 --> 00:38:35,622
So did I.
561
00:38:37,123 --> 00:38:39,627
What does he
have to do with it?
562
00:38:39,627 --> 00:38:42,631
He's been appointed
the president of the court.
563
00:38:45,635 --> 00:38:48,138
Who are
the other members?
564
00:38:48,138 --> 00:38:50,641
A regular who's who
of the army.
565
00:38:53,144 --> 00:38:56,148
"Maj. Gen. George L. Irwin,
Gen. Slade, Gen. Graves,
566
00:38:56,148 --> 00:38:59,152
Gen. Ford.,
Gen. Douglas MacArthur,
Gen. Bolling."
567
00:39:00,654 --> 00:39:03,157
There's not
a flying officer
among them.
568
00:39:03,157 --> 00:39:06,161
Sir, have you considered
taking on a civilian counsel?
569
00:39:06,161 --> 00:39:09,165
You're entitled to one,
you know.
570
00:39:09,165 --> 00:39:11,167
Could use
the heavy artillery, huh?
571
00:39:11,668 --> 00:39:15,172
Well, honestly, sir,
I don't think we can afford
to overlook any possibility.
572
00:39:15,673 --> 00:39:17,676
Big name?
The biggest possible.
573
00:39:23,684 --> 00:39:26,688
I've never had to go
outside the army before.
574
00:39:39,203 --> 00:39:42,708
Why, Col. Mitchell!
It's so good to see you
again, sir.
575
00:39:42,708 --> 00:39:45,712
You look as well
as ever, Mrs. Sturges.
Is Congressman Reid in?
576
00:39:45,712 --> 00:39:48,215
Yes, he is.
Go right in.
Thank you.
577
00:39:49,717 --> 00:39:52,220
Hello, Frank.
578
00:39:52,220 --> 00:39:55,224
Billy! It's about time
you showed up.
579
00:39:55,224 --> 00:39:58,228
Well, you finally did it.
You kicked 'em
where it really hurts.
580
00:39:58,228 --> 00:40:00,230
I'm proud of you.
581
00:40:00,230 --> 00:40:03,735
I hope you're here
for the reason I think.
Gonna let me handle this?
582
00:40:03,735 --> 00:40:06,238
You're stuck with me.
I've been
counting on it.
583
00:40:06,238 --> 00:40:10,243
Been preparing since you
got in your jam. I'm ready
to go to court tomorrow.
584
00:40:10,243 --> 00:40:13,247
Let's see what section
they've thrown at you.
585
00:40:13,247 --> 00:40:16,251
I thought so.
Article 96,
the catch-all clause.
586
00:40:16,251 --> 00:40:20,256
Covers everything
from kicking a horse
to kissing a sergeant.
587
00:40:20,256 --> 00:40:23,761
"Conduct prejudicial to
the good of the service,"
my eye!
588
00:40:23,761 --> 00:40:25,764
This is the way
I see it.
589
00:40:25,764 --> 00:40:29,769
We won't wait for the
court-martial to start in on us.
We'll open up on them first.
590
00:40:29,769 --> 00:40:34,274
We'll call a press conference,
we'll issue a statement,
blast the navy out of the water.
591
00:40:34,775 --> 00:40:36,778
Then we'll take on
the general staff
of the army--
592
00:40:37,278 --> 00:40:38,780
No, Frank, no.
What's the matter?
593
00:40:39,280 --> 00:40:41,784
I don't like it.
I don't want it.
I won't fight that way.
594
00:40:42,284 --> 00:40:44,788
This is what
you've been fighting for
all these years--
595
00:40:45,288 --> 00:40:47,792
a chance to get recognition
for the air service,
596
00:40:48,292 --> 00:40:50,796
to tell the people about
the importance of air power.
597
00:40:50,796 --> 00:40:53,800
You haven't changed
your mind about that,
have you?
598
00:40:53,800 --> 00:40:56,804
No, I haven't.
I want a new air program
and a new air service.
599
00:40:56,804 --> 00:40:59,807
But I don't want
to wreck the army to get it,
or the navy either.
600
00:40:59,807 --> 00:41:04,814
I don't understand you, Billy.
In a fight like this,
it's all or nothing.
601
00:41:07,818 --> 00:41:10,822
I don't see it that way.
I see.
602
00:41:10,822 --> 00:41:13,825
You want to kick
the army in the pants,
but do it politely.
603
00:41:13,825 --> 00:41:16,829
All I want is a chance to tell
the whole tragic story...
604
00:41:17,329 --> 00:41:18,832
of this country's
air defense.
605
00:41:19,332 --> 00:41:20,834
All I want
is my day in court.
606
00:41:21,335 --> 00:41:22,837
And that's exactly
what you'll get--
607
00:41:23,337 --> 00:41:25,841
one day, with Gen. James Guthrie
as president of the court.
608
00:41:26,341 --> 00:41:27,843
Have you heard
about Guthrie?
609
00:41:28,344 --> 00:41:31,347
What do you think I do
around Washington,
warm a chair?
610
00:41:31,347 --> 00:41:33,350
What can I do?
611
00:41:33,350 --> 00:41:36,855
Challenge him for prejudice
and kick him off the court.
612
00:41:36,855 --> 00:41:41,360
I'll not be a party to anything
that casts aspersions
on the integrity of an officer.
613
00:41:41,360 --> 00:41:43,864
The old school tie, huh?
614
00:41:43,864 --> 00:41:47,869
The army took me in
when I was a raw kid.
It taught me everything I know.
615
00:41:47,869 --> 00:41:50,372
I'm not at war
with the army.
616
00:41:50,372 --> 00:41:53,376
Billy Mitchell,
you're not talking
like your father's son.
617
00:41:53,376 --> 00:41:56,881
That great old man would be
fighting with everything he had
to get a fair trial.
618
00:41:57,381 --> 00:42:00,886
I'm being court-martialed
by officers of
the United States Army.
619
00:42:01,386 --> 00:42:03,890
I'll get a fair trial.
620
00:42:04,390 --> 00:42:07,394
Unless you believe that, Frank,
don't take the case.
621
00:42:09,396 --> 00:42:12,400
All right.
You've handcuffed me,
but I'll try to get you off.
622
00:42:12,901 --> 00:42:14,904
If I do,
it'll be quite a trick.
623
00:42:55,339 --> 00:42:58,342
This looks like
a warehouse.
Itwasa warehouse.
624
00:42:58,342 --> 00:43:00,846
Last night
they converted it
into a courtroom.
625
00:43:22,875 --> 00:43:24,877
Just one second,
Colonel, please.
626
00:43:24,877 --> 00:43:26,880
Thank you.
627
00:43:28,381 --> 00:43:31,886
Good morning, Colonel Moreland.
I see we're tangling again.
628
00:43:31,886 --> 00:43:35,390
Yes.
Well, good luck.
629
00:43:39,896 --> 00:43:42,399
It's a fine place
to hide a trial.
630
00:43:42,399 --> 00:43:45,403
I would say they want
as little public attention
as possible...
631
00:43:45,403 --> 00:43:47,907
for your day in court.
632
00:43:47,907 --> 00:43:51,411
Colonel Mitchell?
My name is Carlson.
633
00:43:51,411 --> 00:43:53,413
I'm reporter
for this court.
634
00:43:53,413 --> 00:43:55,917
George Carlson.
Yes?
635
00:43:55,917 --> 00:43:58,420
My son served
under you.
636
00:43:58,420 --> 00:44:02,425
He was shot down
over the Argonne.
637
00:44:02,425 --> 00:44:04,929
Do you mean
Glen Carlson?
Yes, sir.
638
00:44:06,430 --> 00:44:08,433
Well, I'm very glad
to meet you.
639
00:44:08,433 --> 00:44:10,435
Glen was a fine boy.
640
00:44:10,435 --> 00:44:13,439
Looked a lot like you,
as a matter of fact.
641
00:44:13,439 --> 00:44:16,443
I've always wanted
to thank you for
the letter you wrote.
642
00:44:16,443 --> 00:44:18,947
It was such
a great comfort
to us.
643
00:44:18,947 --> 00:44:20,949
I wish I could've
done more.
644
00:44:20,949 --> 00:44:23,953
Well, I'm sorry
about all this.
645
00:44:23,953 --> 00:44:26,456
I'd just like to say...
646
00:44:26,456 --> 00:44:28,458
Stand up when
the court enters!
647
00:44:28,458 --> 00:44:30,461
good luck.
648
00:44:48,985 --> 00:44:51,989
The court
will come to order.
649
00:44:51,989 --> 00:44:53,992
Colonel Moreland.
650
00:44:53,992 --> 00:44:56,996
The prosecution is
ready to proceed
with the trial...
651
00:44:56,996 --> 00:44:59,999
ofThe United States
against William Mitchell,
Colonel.
652
00:44:59,999 --> 00:45:02,502
Whom does the accused
wish to introduce
as counsel?
653
00:45:02,502 --> 00:45:05,506
As counsel,
the Honorable Frank R. Reid,
654
00:45:05,506 --> 00:45:08,510
and as associate counsel
the regularly appointed
defense counsel,
655
00:45:08,510 --> 00:45:10,512
Lt. Col. Herbert A. White.
656
00:45:13,516 --> 00:45:16,020
Before this court
is sworn,
657
00:45:16,020 --> 00:45:21,026
I would like to state
that it will be conducted
as a military tribunal.
658
00:45:21,026 --> 00:45:24,530
I expect
the fullest cooperation
from both sides...
659
00:45:24,530 --> 00:45:28,536
to bring it to
the speediest possible
conclusion.
660
00:45:28,536 --> 00:45:32,041
The trial judge advocate
will now swear in the court
and read the charge.
661
00:45:32,041 --> 00:45:35,162
"Further, that the accused
did conduct himself...
662
00:45:35,662 --> 00:45:38,165
"to the prejudice
of good order
and military discipline,
663
00:45:38,666 --> 00:45:40,168
"and in a way
to bring discredit upon
the military service.
664
00:45:40,668 --> 00:45:42,321
"Further, that the accused,
665
00:45:42,321 --> 00:45:45,324
"with intent to discredit
the administration
of the war department,
666
00:45:45,324 --> 00:45:49,830
did make a statement highly
contemptuous and disrespectful
of said administration."
667
00:45:49,830 --> 00:45:53,335
Colonel Mitchell,
you have heard the charge
and the specifications.
668
00:45:53,335 --> 00:45:55,337
How do you plead?
669
00:45:56,339 --> 00:45:58,341
Not guilty.
670
00:45:58,341 --> 00:46:01,345
The prosecution
may proceed.
671
00:46:01,345 --> 00:46:04,849
The prosecution
does not desire to make
any opening statement.
672
00:46:04,849 --> 00:46:06,852
If the court please,
673
00:46:06,852 --> 00:46:09,355
I wish to withhold
my opening argument...
674
00:46:09,856 --> 00:46:11,358
until the government
states its case.
675
00:46:11,858 --> 00:46:14,362
However, we intend to
show that Col. Mitchell's
statement was justified...
676
00:46:14,362 --> 00:46:16,865
by the deplorable conditions
in the army and navy.
677
00:46:17,366 --> 00:46:19,368
Justification
is not an issue here.
678
00:46:19,868 --> 00:46:21,371
This is a very simple case.
679
00:46:21,871 --> 00:46:25,376
Did or did not the accused
make the newspaper statements
attributed to him?
680
00:46:25,376 --> 00:46:28,880
- If he did, he's guilty.
- Not if the statement's true.
We want a--
681
00:46:28,880 --> 00:46:32,885
You will have an opportunity
to develop that point later,
Mr. Reid.
682
00:46:32,885 --> 00:46:35,889
The trial judge advocate
will call the first witness.
683
00:46:35,889 --> 00:46:38,893
The prosecution
calls Carl Tuttle.
684
00:46:40,895 --> 00:46:42,898
Carl Tuttle!
685
00:46:42,898 --> 00:46:45,902
Mr. Tuttle, are you
the author of this article...
686
00:46:45,902 --> 00:46:48,906
which contains
an alleged statement
by the accused?
687
00:46:52,411 --> 00:46:54,413
Yes, sir, I am.
688
00:46:54,413 --> 00:46:57,417
At this time I ask
that this newspaper
be received...
689
00:46:57,417 --> 00:46:59,420
as the prosecution's
exhibit number one.
690
00:46:59,420 --> 00:47:01,422
It will be
so received.
691
00:47:01,422 --> 00:47:03,425
Now, Mr. Tuttle,
692
00:47:03,425 --> 00:47:07,430
who gave you this statement
which later appeared in
the columns of your newspaper?
693
00:47:07,430 --> 00:47:08,931
Col. Mitchell, sir.
694
00:47:08,931 --> 00:47:11,935
And it was printed exactly
as he gave it to you?
Yes, sir.
695
00:47:11,935 --> 00:47:14,439
Where did Col. Mitchell
give you this statement?
696
00:47:14,939 --> 00:47:16,442
In his office
in Fort Sam Houston.
697
00:47:16,942 --> 00:47:18,444
How did you happen
to be there?
698
00:47:18,944 --> 00:47:22,449
Col. Mitchell telephoned
my editor and asked him
to send over a reporter.
699
00:47:22,449 --> 00:47:24,452
No further questions.
700
00:47:24,452 --> 00:47:26,955
Does the defense desire
to cross-examine?
701
00:47:27,956 --> 00:47:29,959
Mr. Tuttle,
702
00:47:29,959 --> 00:47:31,961
did your paper
make any effort...
703
00:47:31,961 --> 00:47:34,965
to find out the truth
or the untruth of
Col. Mitchell's statement?
704
00:47:34,965 --> 00:47:36,968
Yes, sir.
I was put on the story.
705
00:47:36,968 --> 00:47:38,970
What did you do?
706
00:47:38,970 --> 00:47:41,974
I called up 50 officers
in the various branches
of the service...
707
00:47:41,974 --> 00:47:43,977
and asked their opinion--
708
00:47:43,977 --> 00:47:45,979
Objection.
This is hearsay.
Sustained.
709
00:47:45,979 --> 00:47:48,983
Did the 50 officers
you interviewed all agree...
710
00:47:48,983 --> 00:47:52,988
that the conditions
in the army and the navy,
as described by Col. Mitchell--
711
00:47:52,988 --> 00:47:54,991
Objection!
712
00:47:54,991 --> 00:47:57,995
This is irrelevant
and calls for a conclusion
on the part of the witness.
713
00:47:57,995 --> 00:48:01,500
Sustained.
You must stop when you hear
the court's ruling, Mr. Reid.
714
00:48:01,500 --> 00:48:03,502
I'll put the question
another way, General.
715
00:48:03,502 --> 00:48:06,506
The question
is irrelevant
in any form.
716
00:48:06,506 --> 00:48:10,511
The court directs you
to confine yourself to evidence
permissible under its rulings.
717
00:48:11,011 --> 00:48:13,014
Col. Moreland,
call the next witness.
718
00:48:14,516 --> 00:48:17,019
The prosecution
calls Howard Millikan.
719
00:48:17,520 --> 00:48:22,026
Mr. Millikan, did your paper
receive any letters from
your readers in this matter?
720
00:48:22,026 --> 00:48:24,028
Yes, many.
721
00:48:24,028 --> 00:48:27,032
What would you say
was the general tone
of these letters?
722
00:48:27,032 --> 00:48:29,536
Objection.
Question is irrelevant.
Sustained.
723
00:48:30,036 --> 00:48:31,538
Were your readers
shocked?
724
00:48:32,038 --> 00:48:35,042
What was their feeling
about Col. Mitchell and his
devotion to his country?
725
00:48:35,042 --> 00:48:37,045
Objection.
Question is immaterial.
726
00:48:37,045 --> 00:48:39,549
Do not answer,
Mr. Millikan.
727
00:48:39,549 --> 00:48:42,552
Mr. Reid, my patience
is nearing its end.
728
00:48:42,552 --> 00:48:46,558
My belief
in military justice
is also nearing its end.
729
00:48:46,558 --> 00:48:51,063
We have a right to prove
the defendant was justified
in saying what he did.
730
00:48:51,063 --> 00:48:53,065
In a military court,
Mr. Reid,
731
00:48:53,065 --> 00:48:56,570
there is no justification
for disobedience,
insubordination or treason.
732
00:48:56,570 --> 00:48:58,573
I don't agree,
General.
733
00:48:58,573 --> 00:49:02,077
It's one thing when a man
accuses another of being
a murderer without cause.
734
00:49:02,077 --> 00:49:05,081
- It's something else
when he can prove it.
- I object!
735
00:49:05,081 --> 00:49:07,083
Mr. Reid
is arguing his case.
736
00:49:07,083 --> 00:49:10,588
The issue here is,
did the accused make the
statements attributed to him?
737
00:49:10,588 --> 00:49:13,091
And did he make them
without authority?
738
00:49:13,091 --> 00:49:16,596
On this point,
uncontradicted proof
has been presented.
739
00:49:16,596 --> 00:49:19,600
And on this point,
the prosecution rests.
740
00:49:19,600 --> 00:49:22,103
You may step down.
741
00:49:23,605 --> 00:49:25,608
Is the understanding
of the court correct?
742
00:49:25,608 --> 00:49:27,610
The prosecution has
no further witnesses?
743
00:49:29,112 --> 00:49:31,114
That is correct, sir.
744
00:49:31,114 --> 00:49:33,618
The defense may summon
its first witness.
745
00:49:35,120 --> 00:49:37,122
We got anybody
on deck?
No.
746
00:49:37,122 --> 00:49:39,626
I had no idea
they'd finish so quickly.
747
00:49:39,626 --> 00:49:43,130
If it please the court,
witnesses for the defense
are still en route.
748
00:49:43,130 --> 00:49:45,132
They're not present
in Washington?
749
00:49:45,132 --> 00:49:49,639
The brevity
of the prosecution's case
has upset our timetable.
750
00:49:49,639 --> 00:49:52,643
These witnesses
should be standing by,
Mr. Reid.
751
00:49:52,643 --> 00:49:55,646
That would've been difficult
for most of our witnesses,
752
00:49:55,646 --> 00:49:57,649
because they're officers
in the armed forces...
753
00:49:57,649 --> 00:49:59,652
and need special permission
to leave their posts.
754
00:49:59,652 --> 00:50:02,154
Who are these officers?
755
00:50:03,657 --> 00:50:06,661
"Major H.H. Arnold,
Major--"
Just a moment, Mr. Reid.
756
00:50:07,161 --> 00:50:09,664
What would be the nature
of these witnesses' testimony?
757
00:50:09,664 --> 00:50:13,168
- To prove the truth
of Col. Mitchell's statement.
- The prosecution objects.
758
00:50:13,168 --> 00:50:16,673
The truth or falsity
of Col. Mitchell's statement
is not an issue here.
759
00:50:18,175 --> 00:50:19,677
Was this Major Arnold
present...
760
00:50:20,177 --> 00:50:22,681
when the accused made
the alleged statements
to the press?
761
00:50:22,681 --> 00:50:25,184
- No, sir,
but he'll prove justification.
- Objection.
762
00:50:25,685 --> 00:50:28,689
- The court has already
ruled on that issue.
- Sustained.
763
00:50:28,689 --> 00:50:30,692
Who are
your other witnesses,
Mr. Reid?
764
00:50:30,692 --> 00:50:34,196
"Major Carl Spaatz,
Capt--"
Objection!
765
00:50:34,196 --> 00:50:36,198
May I see that list,
please, Mr. Reid?
766
00:50:42,206 --> 00:50:44,710
"Captain E.V. Rickenbacker,
767
00:50:44,710 --> 00:50:46,712
"Congressman
Fiorello La Guardia,
768
00:50:47,212 --> 00:50:50,216
Admiral William S. Sims"?
769
00:50:50,717 --> 00:50:53,220
Were any of these people
present in Texas
at the stated time?
770
00:50:53,721 --> 00:50:57,225
No, sir, they were not.
Then, I regret to say,
they're inadmissible.
771
00:50:57,726 --> 00:50:59,228
Without them,
I haven't any case.
772
00:50:59,729 --> 00:51:01,230
Then the court
will stand adjourned...
773
00:51:01,731 --> 00:51:03,734
and give you time
to prepare one.
774
00:51:11,627 --> 00:51:14,631
What do you think
about the day's doings,
Col. White?
775
00:51:14,631 --> 00:51:16,634
It's court
procedure.
776
00:51:16,634 --> 00:51:19,136
My dear friend,
that's not a court.
777
00:51:19,136 --> 00:51:22,140
A man's allowed to
defend himself in court,
even a triple murderer.
778
00:51:22,140 --> 00:51:24,143
They're operating
under army rules,
Frank.
779
00:51:24,143 --> 00:51:29,149
You stay out of this.
I got to figure out something,
or we're through, licked.
780
00:51:29,149 --> 00:51:31,653
No way of changing
the procedure, Mr. Reid.
781
00:51:31,653 --> 00:51:33,656
You call that
procedure?
782
00:51:33,656 --> 00:51:37,160
The accused is permitted to
give his name and address,
then off with his head.
783
00:51:37,160 --> 00:51:39,162
We'll get our innings.
784
00:51:39,162 --> 00:51:41,165
We'll get nothing.
785
00:51:41,165 --> 00:51:44,169
You don't have a chance
if they don't let us try to
prove you were justified...
786
00:51:44,169 --> 00:51:46,171
in making
that big pronouncement
of yours.
787
00:51:46,171 --> 00:51:49,175
It's like refusing
to allow a defendant
to present an alibi.
788
00:51:49,175 --> 00:51:52,179
I'll give them
what you call my alibi.
789
00:51:52,179 --> 00:51:56,184
I'll testify and give them
my story in full, for the court
and for the whole country.
790
00:51:56,184 --> 00:51:58,688
And I'll bring up
all the justification
there is.
791
00:51:58,688 --> 00:52:02,693
You're talking through your hat.
You be asked, "Did you make
that statement? Yes or no?"
792
00:52:02,693 --> 00:52:05,196
Am I right, Colonel?
That's right.
793
00:52:06,698 --> 00:52:08,701
Colonel, what do you think
the chances are...
794
00:52:09,201 --> 00:52:11,705
of our getting
one justification witness
into this trial?
795
00:52:12,205 --> 00:52:15,710
Nonexistent.
If they let one on the stand,
they'd have to let them all.
796
00:52:16,210 --> 00:52:19,715
Then I've got to stall
till I can get an idea.
797
00:52:21,216 --> 00:52:24,220
Do you know
what a filibuster is?
798
00:52:24,220 --> 00:52:29,227
When a politician can't
think of anything to say,
he talks.
799
00:52:29,227 --> 00:52:31,229
I'm going home and gargle.
800
00:52:34,233 --> 00:52:37,237
And now,
if the court please,
801
00:52:37,237 --> 00:52:39,741
I ask permission
to read into the record...
802
00:52:39,741 --> 00:52:42,243
newspaper comments
concerning this trial.
803
00:52:43,245 --> 00:52:45,247
These are editorials...
804
00:52:45,247 --> 00:52:48,752
which have been
printed in newspapers
from coast to coast.
805
00:52:48,752 --> 00:52:50,755
I wish at this time
to have them entered...
806
00:52:50,755 --> 00:52:53,257
as evidence
for the accused.
807
00:52:53,257 --> 00:52:55,260
What is your purpose,
Mr. Reid?
808
00:52:55,761 --> 00:52:57,764
Are you seeking to delay
the proceedings
of this court?
809
00:52:57,764 --> 00:53:01,769
I believe public opinion has
a bearing on the deliberation
of this court.
810
00:53:01,769 --> 00:53:03,772
Objection.
Irrelevant
and immaterial.
811
00:53:04,272 --> 00:53:05,774
Sustained.
812
00:53:06,274 --> 00:53:09,779
You are obviously addressing
the ears of the press,
Mr. Reid.
813
00:53:09,779 --> 00:53:12,282
You are instructed to make
your publicity statements...
814
00:53:12,282 --> 00:53:15,286
outside the precincts
of this courtroom.
815
00:53:20,292 --> 00:53:23,296
I have here...
816
00:53:23,296 --> 00:53:27,802
a copy of theManual
of Courts-Martial,1921.
817
00:53:27,802 --> 00:53:30,806
It states that under
the procedure governing
trial by court-martial,
818
00:53:30,806 --> 00:53:33,309
a charge having been made
must first be referred...
819
00:53:33,309 --> 00:53:35,813
to the immediate
commanding officer
of the accused,
820
00:53:35,813 --> 00:53:38,315
and, thereafter, the person
who preferred the charges,
821
00:53:38,315 --> 00:53:41,319
together
with available witnesses,
shall appear before him,
822
00:53:41,319 --> 00:53:45,826
and the accused shall then
be given a chance to defend
himself before that officer.
823
00:53:45,826 --> 00:53:47,828
The court is aware
of all that.
824
00:53:47,828 --> 00:53:50,832
You're referring
to paragraph 76-A
of theManual.
825
00:53:50,832 --> 00:53:53,836
Well, if
the trial judge advocate
is aware of that clause,
826
00:53:53,836 --> 00:53:57,340
I ask why this opportunity
was never afforded
to Col. Mitchell.
827
00:53:57,841 --> 00:54:01,846
I ask the name of the officer
who preferred charges
against Col. Mitchell.
828
00:54:01,846 --> 00:54:03,849
That name is not
presently available.
829
00:54:03,849 --> 00:54:06,853
It shouldn't be
so hard to find.
830
00:54:06,853 --> 00:54:09,857
Wouldn't he be Col. Mitchell's
immediate commanding officer
at Fort Sam Houston?
831
00:54:10,357 --> 00:54:13,361
- Not necessarily.
- Then according to
the chain of command,
832
00:54:13,361 --> 00:54:16,866
wouldn't he be the commanding
general of the core area
in which Col. Mitchell served?
833
00:54:16,866 --> 00:54:19,368
That need not be so.
834
00:54:19,869 --> 00:54:23,373
Well, then he'd certainly
be the chief of staff
of the army, wouldn't he?
835
00:54:23,373 --> 00:54:24,876
He would not have to be.
836
00:54:25,376 --> 00:54:28,881
Well,somebodymust have
preferred these charges
against Col. Mitchell.
837
00:54:28,881 --> 00:54:31,885
And since we can't
seem to locate him,
838
00:54:31,885 --> 00:54:34,889
I'm left no alternative
but to name the one officer
in the army...
839
00:54:34,889 --> 00:54:39,394
who's the commander
of every soldier serving
under the American flag.
840
00:54:39,394 --> 00:54:41,397
I name the president
of the United States.
841
00:54:43,883 --> 00:54:46,387
Order in the court.
842
00:54:46,387 --> 00:54:49,891
For the court's convenience,
I have prepared here
a subpoena...
843
00:54:49,891 --> 00:54:53,896
calling upon President Coolidge
to appear before
this tribunal...
844
00:54:53,896 --> 00:54:57,401
and to testify as to
his personal knowledge
of the facts of this case.
845
00:54:57,401 --> 00:55:00,905
I call upon the court
to issue this subpoena
and have service made upon him.
846
00:55:05,411 --> 00:55:09,417
This will be considered
in closed session.
Court will adjourn.
847
00:55:15,424 --> 00:55:17,427
Congratulations, Frank.
Congratulations.
848
00:55:19,930 --> 00:55:22,683
It's open.
849
00:55:24,185 --> 00:55:27,189
Morning.
I'm disappointed.
850
00:55:27,189 --> 00:55:29,191
I thought it would
be President Coolidge.
851
00:55:29,692 --> 00:55:32,195
Had your breakfast?
Yes, thanks.
852
00:55:32,195 --> 00:55:34,198
They're all
in a dither.
853
00:55:34,198 --> 00:55:36,701
Who's that, Colonel?
The newspaper boys.
854
00:55:36,701 --> 00:55:39,204
That Cal Coolidge thing
has them all agog.
855
00:55:39,705 --> 00:55:42,208
The newspapers
aren't gonna help us.
856
00:55:42,208 --> 00:55:45,713
They're good for
crying at a funeral
or a... hanging.
857
00:55:45,713 --> 00:55:47,716
They've never yet
stopped one.
Hmm.
858
00:55:47,716 --> 00:55:51,220
Come in. It's open.
859
00:55:53,740 --> 00:55:55,743
Gentlemen,
we can make a deal.
860
00:55:55,743 --> 00:55:57,746
A what?
A compromise.
861
00:55:57,746 --> 00:56:00,248
Now, this isn't official
yet, but my connections
assure me...
862
00:56:00,749 --> 00:56:03,252
that if you'll retract
your Texas statement, they'll
pressure the War Department...
863
00:56:03,753 --> 00:56:05,756
into letting you off
with a reprimand.
864
00:56:05,756 --> 00:56:08,259
I have a draft
of a statement here
I think they'll accept.
865
00:56:08,259 --> 00:56:10,261
Can I see it?
866
00:56:11,764 --> 00:56:14,767
Hey, this isn't bad, Frank.
In fact, it's very good.
867
00:56:15,268 --> 00:56:17,270
Dignified, no crawling.
868
00:56:17,270 --> 00:56:19,273
Oh, "I errored
through overzealousness."
869
00:56:19,273 --> 00:56:22,277
That's fine.
Excellent.
870
00:56:22,277 --> 00:56:24,780
Have you got a moment,
Billy?
I can't do it.
871
00:56:24,780 --> 00:56:28,785
How's that?
I can't retract
what I've said.
872
00:56:28,785 --> 00:56:32,791
For heaven's sake, why not?
You only said it
to get your day in court.
873
00:56:32,791 --> 00:56:35,293
You found out you can't have
a day in court where you're
allowed to prove anything.
874
00:56:35,293 --> 00:56:37,797
So you're
losing nothing.
The trial isn't over yet.
875
00:56:38,297 --> 00:56:40,300
Maybe I'll get a chance
to say what I've got to say.
876
00:56:40,801 --> 00:56:42,803
What are you expecting,
a miracle?
877
00:56:42,803 --> 00:56:44,806
Day after day, you've
sat in that courtroom.
878
00:56:44,806 --> 00:56:46,809
You know you'll
never be allowed
to open your mouth...
879
00:56:46,809 --> 00:56:49,813
on anything other
than the charges
brought against you.
880
00:56:49,813 --> 00:56:52,315
Don't be a fool, Billy.
This is no good. Get out
of it while you can.
881
00:56:52,315 --> 00:56:55,820
I can't think of myself alone.
There's all the rest of them.
882
00:56:56,320 --> 00:56:58,824
There's the whole future
of this country in the air.
883
00:56:59,324 --> 00:57:02,829
I've got to go on with it
while there's any chance
this trial will break open.
884
00:57:02,829 --> 00:57:04,832
And you must go on trying
to win for me, Frank.
885
00:57:05,332 --> 00:57:08,837
I never said I'd win for you.
I hoped I'd get you off.
886
00:57:08,837 --> 00:57:11,841
That's just what I've done.
I've saved your career for you.
887
00:57:11,841 --> 00:57:15,846
I've made it possible for you
to stay in that precious
uniform of yours.
888
00:57:15,846 --> 00:57:18,850
That's the best I can do.
That's the best anybody can do.
889
00:57:25,859 --> 00:57:27,861
Now sign this.
890
00:57:36,372 --> 00:57:38,374
I can't do it,
Frank.
891
00:57:42,380 --> 00:57:44,382
As I don't believe
in miracles,
892
00:57:44,382 --> 00:57:47,887
I should tell you to get
yourself a new lawyer.
893
00:57:47,887 --> 00:57:51,892
But I do believe a man
should be buried
by his friends,
894
00:57:52,894 --> 00:57:55,396
so I'll stay
for the funeral.
895
00:57:58,400 --> 00:58:00,403
Come on, Colonel.
896
00:58:08,914 --> 00:58:11,417
Ah, why don't I give up?
897
00:58:12,418 --> 00:58:14,421
What am I
struggling for?
898
00:58:19,427 --> 00:58:21,931
If we could only get
one witness on the stand...
899
00:58:21,931 --> 00:58:24,935
to punch one air disaster
into the record,
900
00:58:24,935 --> 00:58:27,438
we'd punch a hole
in the dike.
901
00:58:27,438 --> 00:58:29,440
Impossible.
902
00:58:41,957 --> 00:58:43,959
Margaret Lansdowne.
903
00:58:44,961 --> 00:58:46,963
It's against procedure.
904
00:58:46,963 --> 00:58:50,467
It's perfect.
It's the other half
of our case.
905
00:58:50,467 --> 00:58:53,471
Don't you see? It wasn't
only the army Billy accused.
It was the navy too.
906
00:58:53,471 --> 00:58:55,474
The navy wouldn't
listen to Lansdowne...
907
00:58:55,474 --> 00:58:57,977
any more than the army
would listen to Mitchell.
908
00:58:58,478 --> 00:59:00,480
Perfect justification.
909
00:59:00,480 --> 00:59:02,984
Mr. Reid, the court
has ruled repeatedly
on this.
910
00:59:02,984 --> 00:59:06,488
They won't allow her
to take the stand.
The widow of a naval hero?
911
00:59:06,488 --> 00:59:09,492
Huh. When the papers
print her story...
912
00:59:09,492 --> 00:59:11,494
and spread it in headlines
across the country,
913
00:59:11,494 --> 00:59:15,499
no court on earth can refuse
to put her on the stand.
914
00:59:19,505 --> 00:59:21,507
I'll see you in court
tomorrow.
915
00:59:36,777 --> 00:59:39,780
Mrs. Lansdowne?
Yes.
916
00:59:39,780 --> 00:59:41,783
I'm Congressman Reid.
I know.
917
00:59:41,783 --> 00:59:45,788
I've seen your picture
in the papers.
May I come in?
918
00:59:45,788 --> 00:59:49,293
I know what
you're here for, sir,
and my answer is no.
919
00:59:49,293 --> 00:59:53,298
I'm sorry.
May I talk to you
a minute, please?
920
00:59:55,301 --> 00:59:57,303
If you wish.
921
01:00:00,307 --> 01:00:02,310
Do I understand you
correctly, that you...
922
01:00:02,310 --> 01:00:04,813
don't want to testify
for Col. Mitchell?
923
01:00:04,813 --> 01:00:07,816
That's right.
But why?
924
01:00:08,818 --> 01:00:11,321
You must have a reason.
925
01:00:11,321 --> 01:00:13,324
I wish you'd tell me
what it is.
926
01:00:13,324 --> 01:00:15,327
I'm sorry. I can't.
927
01:00:16,828 --> 01:00:18,831
May I sit down,
please?
928
01:00:18,831 --> 01:00:22,336
I don't think
we have very much to say
to each other, Mr. Reid.
929
01:00:22,336 --> 01:00:25,339
I think we have
quite a bit to say.
930
01:00:27,342 --> 01:00:29,345
Please?
931
01:00:34,851 --> 01:00:36,854
All right, if you don't
want to tell me,
932
01:00:36,854 --> 01:00:38,856
I won't ask you why
you don't want to testify.
933
01:00:39,358 --> 01:00:42,862
Maybe you have a reason.
Maybe somebody got to you
and convinced you not to talk.
934
01:00:42,862 --> 01:00:44,864
Maybe you think you ought
to protect somebody.
935
01:00:44,864 --> 01:00:47,368
I don't know,
and I don't care.
936
01:00:47,368 --> 01:00:50,372
But one thing
I must know though.
937
01:00:50,372 --> 01:00:53,876
Please don't think
I'm impertinent,
Mrs. Lansdowne.
938
01:00:53,876 --> 01:00:58,315
- I assume that you loved
your husband. Am I right?
- Of course.
939
01:00:58,315 --> 01:01:01,820
All right. And you know that
he died fighting for a cause.
Yes.
940
01:01:02,320 --> 01:01:04,323
That his sense of duty
was so strong...
941
01:01:04,323 --> 01:01:06,826
that he took up a ship
that he knew was unsafe...
942
01:01:06,826 --> 01:01:10,832
and that he fought
in every way possible
to keep grounded.
943
01:01:10,832 --> 01:01:13,334
- How do you know
all this?
- That's immaterial.
944
01:01:13,334 --> 01:01:15,337
I'm trying to tell you
that Billy Mitchell...
945
01:01:15,337 --> 01:01:17,339
is fighting the same fight
your husband fought.
946
01:01:17,339 --> 01:01:19,342
And if your husband
were alive today,
947
01:01:19,843 --> 01:01:22,346
he'd be right in there
with Billy helping him
in every way he could.
948
01:01:22,346 --> 01:01:24,348
Please, I wish
you wouldn't.
949
01:01:24,850 --> 01:01:29,355
The only way to avoid such
needless, futile sacrifices
as your husband made...
950
01:01:29,856 --> 01:01:31,357
is for the people
to know the truth.
951
01:01:35,864 --> 01:01:39,869
Billy Mitchell has staked
his entire military career
to get it to them.
952
01:01:42,372 --> 01:01:44,875
And I know that your husband
would want you to help him.
953
01:01:46,377 --> 01:01:49,882
You know he would too.
954
01:01:52,385 --> 01:01:54,888
Mrs. Lansdowne, may I ask
why you have waited until now...
955
01:01:54,888 --> 01:01:57,892
to spread this tale
in the newspapers?
956
01:01:57,892 --> 01:02:01,396
- Nobody asked me before.
- And who asked you now?
957
01:02:03,900 --> 01:02:05,902
It was my own decision.
958
01:02:05,902 --> 01:02:07,905
As I understand it,
Mrs. Lansdowne,
959
01:02:07,905 --> 01:02:11,910
you and Col. Mitchell
have been close friends
for a long time.
960
01:02:11,910 --> 01:02:13,412
That's right.
961
01:02:13,913 --> 01:02:17,918
Isn't it possible
that you came here
to aid an old friend...
962
01:02:18,418 --> 01:02:20,922
at the expense
of the exact truth?
963
01:02:20,922 --> 01:02:23,926
- I object!
- Sustained.
964
01:02:23,926 --> 01:02:27,430
Very well.
965
01:02:27,430 --> 01:02:30,935
You say, Mrs. Lansdowne,
that Col. Mitchell did not
ask you to testify here.
966
01:02:30,935 --> 01:02:33,437
That's right.
Did someone else ask you?
967
01:02:33,437 --> 01:02:35,440
Yes.
Who?
968
01:02:38,945 --> 01:02:41,949
Congressman Reid.
Congressman Reid?
969
01:02:41,949 --> 01:02:44,451
And did Congressman Reid
suggest...
970
01:02:44,451 --> 01:02:47,455
that you tell the story
as it actually happened,
971
01:02:47,956 --> 01:02:51,460
or did he perhaps suggest
that you emphasize
elements in it...
972
01:02:51,460 --> 01:02:53,463
which would prove favorable
to Col. Mitchell?
973
01:02:53,463 --> 01:02:55,967
I object!
I object most violently...
974
01:02:55,967 --> 01:02:58,470
the suggestion that I
suborned this witness.
975
01:02:58,470 --> 01:03:00,973
I am only trying to find out
why this witness--
976
01:03:00,973 --> 01:03:03,476
You are trying to imply
that I put pressure
on Mrs. Lansdowne...
977
01:03:03,977 --> 01:03:05,479
to come here
and perjure herself.
978
01:03:05,980 --> 01:03:08,482
I think, sir, that
my reputation in the Congress
of the United States--
979
01:03:08,482 --> 01:03:11,987
- I am not impugning
your reputation.
- Order in the court.
980
01:03:14,490 --> 01:03:16,994
Allow me
to rephrase my question.
981
01:03:18,495 --> 01:03:22,500
Prior to your appearance here,
was pressure brought to bear
on you?
982
01:03:24,003 --> 01:03:27,507
Yes.
Very strong pressure.
983
01:03:27,507 --> 01:03:29,509
Well.
984
01:03:29,509 --> 01:03:33,014
Suppose you tell us
about it.
985
01:03:33,014 --> 01:03:36,518
- I was told
not to testify.
- Not-- By whom?
986
01:03:38,021 --> 01:03:40,023
I'd rather not say.
987
01:03:42,026 --> 01:03:44,029
Go ahead. Tell them.
988
01:03:44,029 --> 01:03:47,032
Tell them who told you
not to testify.
989
01:03:48,534 --> 01:03:52,539
Some friends of my husband--
naval officers.
990
01:03:52,539 --> 01:03:56,044
- Objection! I withdraw--
- Let her speak.
Let her speak.
991
01:03:56,044 --> 01:03:59,548
- Tell the court what they said.
- Just a moment, Mr. Reid.
992
01:03:59,548 --> 01:04:05,056
Mrs. Lansdowne,
you're making
a very serious charge.
993
01:04:05,056 --> 01:04:09,561
Are you telling this court
that you were approached
by naval officers...
994
01:04:09,561 --> 01:04:12,065
who asked you
to withhold information?
995
01:04:12,065 --> 01:04:15,069
Yes, sir.
Tell the court
who they were.
996
01:04:15,569 --> 01:04:18,072
I object! This is irrelevant
and-and immaterial!
997
01:04:18,072 --> 01:04:20,075
Objection overruled.
998
01:04:21,076 --> 01:04:23,079
I would rather not
identify them.
999
01:04:24,580 --> 01:04:26,583
They thought
they were doing it
for the good of the navy.
1000
01:04:26,583 --> 01:04:31,089
- What did they say?
- They said it was the duty
of a navy wife...
1001
01:04:31,589 --> 01:04:34,093
to protect the service
at all costs.
1002
01:04:34,093 --> 01:04:36,096
Didn't you
agree with that?
1003
01:04:36,096 --> 01:04:39,099
Yes.
1004
01:04:39,099 --> 01:04:42,603
They told me that my husband
was a naval hero...
1005
01:04:42,603 --> 01:04:44,606
and that I owed it
to his memory...
1006
01:04:44,606 --> 01:04:46,609
not to drag his name
through the mud of a trial.
1007
01:04:48,111 --> 01:04:49,612
Then what made you
change your mind?
1008
01:04:50,114 --> 01:04:53,618
Because
I realized...
1009
01:04:53,618 --> 01:04:56,621
that by
telling the truth,
1010
01:04:56,621 --> 01:05:00,126
I would be doing my duty
to the navy and to Zach.
1011
01:05:02,129 --> 01:05:06,134
If Zach were alive,
he would be here to
testify for Col. Mitchell.
1012
01:05:06,634 --> 01:05:09,638
I am testifying
in his place
and telling the truth.
1013
01:05:11,141 --> 01:05:13,643
He tried everything.
1014
01:05:15,146 --> 01:05:17,148
He wrote letters,
made phone calls,
1015
01:05:17,649 --> 01:05:19,651
protested to everyone.
1016
01:05:20,652 --> 01:05:23,156
He knew it wasn't safe
to take that ship up.
1017
01:05:25,159 --> 01:05:29,164
On the last day, I drove out
to the mooring mast with him
to say good-bye.
1018
01:05:30,665 --> 01:05:33,169
Everything was ready
for the takeoff,
1019
01:05:33,169 --> 01:05:36,173
but he kept delaying
the departure.
1020
01:05:36,173 --> 01:05:39,177
He was waiting, hoping
for some last-minute word
from Washington.
1021
01:05:41,179 --> 01:05:44,183
We walked to the communication
shack together,
1022
01:05:44,183 --> 01:05:47,187
and he asked the chief on duty
if a message had come for him.
1023
01:05:48,688 --> 01:05:52,694
There was none.
And when the ship was ready,
1024
01:05:52,694 --> 01:05:55,697
he kissed me good-bye
and climbed into the cabin.
1025
01:05:58,201 --> 01:06:01,705
He waved to me
through the window once,
1026
01:06:03,208 --> 01:06:05,710
and then he gave the order
to cast off.
1027
01:06:08,714 --> 01:06:11,218
I never saw him again.
1028
01:06:14,222 --> 01:06:17,726
Zach and his men were
sent to their deaths
by indifference!
1029
01:06:18,227 --> 01:06:21,731
Zach was too young
to be insubordinate,
1030
01:06:21,731 --> 01:06:25,236
too young and too brave
to save his own life.
1031
01:06:28,740 --> 01:06:32,245
I see no need
of prolonging
your appearance here.
1032
01:06:32,245 --> 01:06:35,249
Thank you, madame.
You are excused.
1033
01:06:57,293 --> 01:06:59,797
The prosecution moves
that Mrs. Lansdowne's
testimony...
1034
01:07:00,297 --> 01:07:01,799
be stricken from the record
as irrelevant...
1035
01:07:02,300 --> 01:07:06,305
and as a violation of
the court's previous ruling
on justification witnesses.
1036
01:07:06,305 --> 01:07:12,312
The defense considers
Mrs. Lansdowne's testimony
to be of extreme relevance.
1037
01:07:12,312 --> 01:07:15,817
Moreover, I request
the court to reconsider...
1038
01:07:15,817 --> 01:07:18,320
its prior ruling about
justification witnesses...
1039
01:07:18,320 --> 01:07:22,325
and allow the defense
to call the witnesses whom
it has previously requested.
1040
01:07:23,828 --> 01:07:27,332
In my opinion,
the entire court should
vote on this objection.
1041
01:07:28,834 --> 01:07:31,337
- Court will be closed.
- Stand up!
1042
01:07:40,850 --> 01:07:44,855
Sit tight.
Keep your fingers crossed.
1043
01:07:49,861 --> 01:07:51,864
Thank you.
1044
01:07:51,864 --> 01:07:54,367
I'd say
that this changes
the whole picture.
1045
01:07:54,367 --> 01:07:56,369
I don't see how.
She's just
an emotional woman.
1046
01:07:56,870 --> 01:07:58,873
Emotional or not,
I think we ought
to listen to her...
1047
01:07:58,873 --> 01:08:00,875
and to anyone else who may
have pertinent testimony.
1048
01:08:00,875 --> 01:08:03,378
I agree with MacArthur.
Well, I don't.
1049
01:08:03,378 --> 01:08:05,381
We're here to try Mitchell
for insubordination.
1050
01:08:05,381 --> 01:08:07,884
We're not here to listen
to a lot of wailing
about the navy...
1051
01:08:07,884 --> 01:08:10,888
or to hear people try to
justify his behavior.
1052
01:08:10,888 --> 01:08:13,391
You just said it.
We're here to try Mitchell.
1053
01:08:13,391 --> 01:08:15,895
And to give him a fair trial,
we have to listen
to every bit of evidence...
1054
01:08:16,395 --> 01:08:19,399
whether or not it's
technically called
a justification.
1055
01:08:19,399 --> 01:08:21,902
Did you hear
what that girl said
about theShenandoah?
1056
01:08:21,902 --> 01:08:23,905
Suppose other witnesses
had equally positive
testimony.
1057
01:08:23,905 --> 01:08:27,409
The trial would go on for weeks,
and the publicity would be bad
for everybody.
1058
01:08:27,409 --> 01:08:29,913
Well, that's the chance
we have to take.
1059
01:08:29,913 --> 01:08:32,917
The whole foundation
of our legal system
and of our country...
1060
01:08:32,917 --> 01:08:35,419
rests
on the right of a man
to defend himself,
1061
01:08:35,419 --> 01:08:37,422
on his right
to use every means
to defend himself.
1062
01:08:37,422 --> 01:08:40,426
He may be wrong, but
at least he's entitled
to tell his story.
1063
01:08:40,426 --> 01:08:43,430
And the minute
we forget that,
we're in grave danger.
1064
01:08:43,931 --> 01:08:46,434
I mean that, gentlemen.
Very grave danger.
1065
01:08:46,434 --> 01:08:48,937
I agree wholeheartedly
with General MacArthur.
1066
01:08:50,439 --> 01:08:52,942
Anybody else
have any thoughts?
I haven't.
1067
01:08:52,942 --> 01:08:55,445
No.
I think not.
1068
01:08:55,946 --> 01:08:57,949
Then I suggest
we vote on it.
1069
01:09:10,966 --> 01:09:12,968
Court will
come to order.
1070
01:09:15,972 --> 01:09:19,977
Under the 31st
Article of War,
it's the court's ruling...
1071
01:09:19,977 --> 01:09:24,984
that the motion to strike
Mrs. Lansdowne's testimony
is overruled...
1072
01:09:24,984 --> 01:09:27,987
and that the defense
may proceed with
its witnesses.
1073
01:09:30,991 --> 01:09:33,494
Order in the court.
1074
01:09:35,497 --> 01:09:39,502
- Are your witnesses
present?
- Yes, sir.
1075
01:09:39,502 --> 01:09:42,506
One witness, Mr. Reid,
will not be here.
1076
01:09:43,007 --> 01:09:46,511
The president has declined
your kind invitation
to appear at this court.
1077
01:09:47,012 --> 01:09:50,016
The defense wishes
to thank Mr. Coolidge...
1078
01:09:50,016 --> 01:09:53,020
for his gracious
consideration
of our request.
1079
01:09:53,020 --> 01:09:55,522
Our other witnesses,
however, I'm sure,
1080
01:09:55,522 --> 01:09:58,526
will compensate
for his absence.
1081
01:10:03,033 --> 01:10:06,788
Major Hap Arnold.
1082
01:10:06,788 --> 01:10:09,290
Major Arnold,
how many pilots have we lost
in peacetime flying?
1083
01:10:09,290 --> 01:10:11,794
The total is 517,
sir.
1084
01:10:11,794 --> 01:10:14,297
That is from
January 1919
to date.
1085
01:10:14,297 --> 01:10:16,801
How many of them
met their deaths
in modern planes?
1086
01:10:16,801 --> 01:10:18,803
In machines built
since the war,
12 were killed.
1087
01:10:19,303 --> 01:10:21,306
To your knowledge, Major,
have there been
any recommendations...
1088
01:10:21,306 --> 01:10:25,311
made to the general staff
with respect to safety measures
for the air service?
1089
01:10:25,311 --> 01:10:28,315
Yes, sir. Dozens of them,
most of them
by Col. Mitchell.
1090
01:10:28,816 --> 01:10:30,819
Do you know
what became of them?
1091
01:10:30,819 --> 01:10:33,321
Yes, sir.
They've beenfiled.
1092
01:10:36,325 --> 01:10:38,328
Captain Rickenbacker,
will you tell the court...
1093
01:10:38,328 --> 01:10:40,831
how many enemy planes
you brought down
in the last war?
1094
01:10:40,831 --> 01:10:42,834
Yes, sir.
Twenty-six.
1095
01:10:42,834 --> 01:10:46,338
Approximately how many hours
did you spend flying
over enemy lines?
1096
01:10:46,338 --> 01:10:50,343
About 300.
Now, based on your experiences
in the World War,
1097
01:10:50,343 --> 01:10:52,346
I should like to ask you
three questions.
1098
01:10:52,346 --> 01:10:56,852
First, is it proper
to send an aviator up
without a parachute?
1099
01:10:56,852 --> 01:11:00,857
It's suicidal. It's like
sending a man to sea
without a life preserver.
1100
01:11:01,357 --> 01:11:06,364
Second, what is your opinion
of the aircraft presently
being used by our flyers?
1101
01:11:06,364 --> 01:11:09,368
The graveyards
around our airfields
prove their worth.
1102
01:11:09,368 --> 01:11:12,372
Third, do you happen to know
what the aviation rank
of the United States is...
1103
01:11:12,372 --> 01:11:14,374
in comparison
with other nations?
1104
01:11:14,374 --> 01:11:17,879
According to the latest
information I have,
we're now in eighth place.
1105
01:11:17,879 --> 01:11:19,882
Thank you,
Capt. Rickenbacker.
1106
01:11:19,882 --> 01:11:22,886
Your witness.
Would it surprise you
to know, Captain,
1107
01:11:23,386 --> 01:11:25,388
that the latest
official reports contradict...
1108
01:11:25,388 --> 01:11:28,893
most of your so-called
informedstatements?
1109
01:11:29,393 --> 01:11:34,901
I wouldn't be surprised
at anything in the official
reports you refer to.
1110
01:11:34,901 --> 01:11:36,904
I would be surprised
if anybody believed them.
1111
01:11:36,904 --> 01:11:39,907
No further questions.
1112
01:11:39,907 --> 01:11:42,911
Major Spaatz,
what is your present
military assignment?
1113
01:11:42,911 --> 01:11:45,414
I am chief of the
tactical unit section
of the training command.
1114
01:11:45,414 --> 01:11:47,417
Now, Major Spaatz,
can you inform this court...
1115
01:11:47,417 --> 01:11:51,422
as to how many planes
our armed forces presently
have for combat purposes?
1116
01:11:51,422 --> 01:11:53,424
Yes, sir. Nine.
1117
01:11:53,925 --> 01:11:57,931
But the War Department
carries on the army list
1,800 planes.
1118
01:11:57,931 --> 01:12:00,433
That is technically
correct, sir.
1119
01:12:00,433 --> 01:12:03,437
But of that number,
1,400 are museum pieces...
1120
01:12:03,437 --> 01:12:05,440
which are obsolete
and of little
serviceable use.
1121
01:12:05,941 --> 01:12:07,943
And the remaining 400?
1122
01:12:07,943 --> 01:12:11,447
331 of those
were flown in France
in 1917...
1123
01:12:11,447 --> 01:12:13,951
and have not
been modified
or improved since.
1124
01:12:13,951 --> 01:12:15,954
And the remaining 69?
1125
01:12:16,454 --> 01:12:18,457
Sixty are used
for training purposes.
1126
01:12:18,457 --> 01:12:21,962
That leaves nine
for use against
a possible enemy.
1127
01:12:21,962 --> 01:12:25,466
And of that number, not one
pursuit ship is equipped
for wartime service.
1128
01:12:25,466 --> 01:12:28,469
So you believe the organization
of the tactical unit
of the air service...
1129
01:12:28,469 --> 01:12:30,973
is being retarded
by the War Department.
1130
01:12:31,473 --> 01:12:35,478
- I do.
-Thank you, Major.
Thank you very much.
1131
01:12:35,478 --> 01:12:38,482
Is it your experience,
Mr. La Guardia,
as a member of the Congress,
1132
01:12:38,482 --> 01:12:42,989
that younger officers
invariably want to carry out
the wishes of the general staff?
1133
01:12:42,989 --> 01:12:44,991
Well, let me put it
this way.
1134
01:12:45,491 --> 01:12:47,494
When the army testifies
before Congress,
1135
01:12:47,494 --> 01:12:50,999
it operates like
a self-greasing axle.
1136
01:12:50,999 --> 01:12:53,001
Thank you, Congressman.
Your witness.
1137
01:12:53,001 --> 01:12:56,505
Mr. La Guardia, is it true
you made a speech in New York...
1138
01:12:56,505 --> 01:13:01,012
in which you said Col. Mitchell
is not being tried
by a jury of his peers?
1139
01:13:01,012 --> 01:13:05,017
- That is correct.
- By what logic do you
arrive at the conclusion...
1140
01:13:05,017 --> 01:13:09,522
that general officers
in the United States Army
are not equals to Col. Mitchell?
1141
01:13:10,023 --> 01:13:13,527
That's easy. Their feet
are stuck in the mud.
1142
01:13:14,028 --> 01:13:16,531
Not one of them has ever
flown in an airplane.
1143
01:13:16,531 --> 01:13:20,036
Isn't it possible, Congressman--
having flown a plane yourself--
1144
01:13:20,036 --> 01:13:23,540
that your judgment is clouded
by the natural sympathy
you feel...
1145
01:13:23,540 --> 01:13:26,544
for another man
who also flies a plane?
1146
01:13:26,544 --> 01:13:30,549
I have no more
natural sympathy
for an airplane pilot...
1147
01:13:30,549 --> 01:13:33,053
than I do for some
of my colleagues
in Congress.
1148
01:13:33,053 --> 01:13:37,058
Yet you say that officers
who have never flown...
1149
01:13:37,058 --> 01:13:39,061
are not equals
to Col. Mitchell.
1150
01:13:39,561 --> 01:13:43,066
In that respect only.
It's as reasonable
to have them judge him...
1151
01:13:43,066 --> 01:13:45,068
as it is for you
to run for Congress.
1152
01:13:45,068 --> 01:13:48,572
No further questions.
1153
01:13:48,572 --> 01:13:52,077
Admiral Sims, how does
the United States Navy
handle its aircraft?
1154
01:13:52,077 --> 01:13:55,581
What is its policy?
Well, it has no policy.
1155
01:13:55,581 --> 01:13:58,085
It bumps along
from day to day.
1156
01:13:58,085 --> 01:14:01,589
Does the navy
consider the airplane
a major weapon?
1157
01:14:03,092 --> 01:14:05,594
The Navy Department
is ignoring the airplane...
1158
01:14:06,095 --> 01:14:09,099
in the hope that,
if they don't notice it,
maybe it'll disappear.
1159
01:14:09,099 --> 01:14:11,602
Thank you, Admiral.
Your witness.
1160
01:14:13,104 --> 01:14:16,108
Admiral, how do you account for
this difference of opinion...
1161
01:14:16,108 --> 01:14:18,611
between you and your
colleagues of the navy?
1162
01:14:18,611 --> 01:14:22,616
Well, they are just not
educated about the air.
1163
01:14:22,616 --> 01:14:24,619
Surely,
they're capable officers...
1164
01:14:24,619 --> 01:14:27,623
who can inform themselves
on the problems of aviation.
1165
01:14:27,623 --> 01:14:31,628
Reading a lot of golf books
doesn't make a man
a good golf player.
1166
01:14:31,628 --> 01:14:37,135
As I understand it, Admiral, you
are no longer in active service.
1167
01:14:37,135 --> 01:14:40,639
- Is that right?
- Yes, sir.
I am retired.
1168
01:14:41,141 --> 01:14:46,147
But I can still think for
myself, and I'd like to tell
this court one thing, sir.
1169
01:14:46,147 --> 01:14:49,651
This row on air power
is not a row between
the army and navy.
1170
01:14:50,152 --> 01:14:54,157
It is a clash between
men who love to fly
and men who don't,
1171
01:14:54,657 --> 01:14:57,161
men who think
in terms of air power...
1172
01:14:57,161 --> 01:15:00,665
and men who can't
think at all.
1173
01:15:01,166 --> 01:15:04,670
Col. Moreland,
this Mitchell business
is getting out of hand.
1174
01:15:05,171 --> 01:15:07,174
It looks as though
he's put the army on trial.
1175
01:15:07,174 --> 01:15:10,178
Mr. President, the army
has no intention of being
on the defensive.
1176
01:15:10,178 --> 01:15:13,182
You may depend on that.
The prestige
of our armed forces...
1177
01:15:13,682 --> 01:15:15,684
is being affected
all over the world.
1178
01:15:15,684 --> 01:15:18,688
The sooner this is over with,
the better it'll be
for the whole country.
1179
01:15:18,688 --> 01:15:23,712
I can assure you, sir,
the complexion of the trial
is going to change very shortly.
1180
01:15:23,712 --> 01:15:26,214
Thank you.
Yes, sir.
1181
01:15:32,723 --> 01:15:36,227
- Where's the-- ??
- Come, Josephine in my flying machine ??
1182
01:15:36,227 --> 01:15:40,233
?? Going up, she goes
Up she goes ??
1183
01:15:40,233 --> 01:15:42,736
?? Balance yourself
like a bird on a beam ??
1184
01:15:42,736 --> 01:15:47,242
?? In the air, she goes
Hey, here she goes ??
1185
01:15:47,242 --> 01:15:50,747
?? Up, up
a little bit higher ??
1186
01:15:50,747 --> 01:15:53,750
?? Oh, my
the moon is on fire-- ??
Hey! There's Mr. Reid.
1187
01:15:53,750 --> 01:15:57,254
What's the matter
with Congressman Reid?
1188
01:15:57,254 --> 01:15:59,257
He's all right.
1189
01:15:59,257 --> 01:16:02,261
- Who's all right?
- Congressman Reid!
1190
01:16:02,261 --> 01:16:05,766
Hello, fellas.
George, bring Congressman Reid
a couple of brass hats on toast.
1191
01:16:06,266 --> 01:16:10,271
They're not very good.
They're hard to digest.
Give you gas.
1192
01:16:10,271 --> 01:16:14,276
Gentlemen, I move that
we appoint Congressman Reid
President of the United States.
1193
01:16:14,276 --> 01:16:16,780
Thank you, gentlemen.
1194
01:16:17,280 --> 01:16:20,284
I promise to move
the White House
into a bomber.
1195
01:16:20,284 --> 01:16:22,287
First, I'd like
to talk to my client.
Where's Col. Mitchell?
1196
01:16:22,788 --> 01:16:25,290
He's still in his room.
Come on, Mr. Reid.
Let's go get him.
1197
01:16:25,290 --> 01:16:28,795
?
?? Come, Josephine
in my flying machine ?
1198
01:16:28,795 --> 01:16:32,299
?? Going up, she goes
Up she goes ????
1199
01:16:32,801 --> 01:16:35,804
Yes?
1200
01:16:36,806 --> 01:16:38,808
Billy?
1201
01:16:40,811 --> 01:16:43,815
You all right?
Me? Sure. I'm--
1202
01:16:43,815 --> 01:16:45,817
Just a little headache.
1203
01:16:45,817 --> 01:16:48,320
Well, forget the party
and get a good night's sleep.
1204
01:16:48,320 --> 01:16:50,824
I want you fresh
on the witness stand
in the morning.
1205
01:16:50,824 --> 01:16:52,826
Look at me, sir.
1206
01:16:52,826 --> 01:16:54,829
Go away, Russ.
I'm all right.
1207
01:16:58,834 --> 01:17:01,337
I thought so.
It's his malaria.
1208
01:17:01,337 --> 01:17:04,842
He needs more
than this quinine.
I'd better get a doctor.
1209
01:17:04,842 --> 01:17:06,844
You'll do nothing
of the kind.
1210
01:17:06,844 --> 01:17:09,347
Come back here, Russ.
1211
01:17:09,347 --> 01:17:11,851
You can't go on the stand
in this condition.
1212
01:17:11,851 --> 01:17:14,855
I'll be all right tomorrow.
I've had these attacks
before.
1213
01:17:16,857 --> 01:17:19,360
I've got to go
on the witness stand.
1214
01:17:19,360 --> 01:17:21,363
Why do you want to do it?
You don't have to.
1215
01:17:22,865 --> 01:17:26,369
I haven't testified yet.
But you don't have to.
We won.
1216
01:17:26,870 --> 01:17:29,874
I haven't won,
not till we get
an air force.
1217
01:17:31,375 --> 01:17:33,378
Listen.
I'm listening.
1218
01:17:33,378 --> 01:17:36,883
Frank... are you
gonna put me on?
1219
01:17:40,387 --> 01:17:42,390
If you insist.
1220
01:17:49,900 --> 01:17:53,404
Better get that doctor, Russ.
Ask him to stand by
in court tomorrow.
1221
01:17:53,404 --> 01:17:55,406
He may be needed.
1222
01:18:08,674 --> 01:18:11,177
Court will come to order.
1223
01:18:11,177 --> 01:18:15,182
Col. Mitchell, at this time,
I remind you that under
the Articles of War,
1224
01:18:15,683 --> 01:18:18,687
you have three choices
as to procedure.
1225
01:18:18,687 --> 01:18:21,190
You may remain silent,
and, if you do so,
1226
01:18:21,190 --> 01:18:24,695
no inference
will be drawn
one way or the other.
1227
01:18:24,695 --> 01:18:28,199
You may, if you wish,
make a statement
not under oath.
1228
01:18:28,700 --> 01:18:30,703
Or you may be sworn,
1229
01:18:30,703 --> 01:18:33,706
in which case,
you'll be subject
to cross-examination.
1230
01:18:33,706 --> 01:18:35,709
The rights of the accused
have been explained to him,
1231
01:18:35,709 --> 01:18:38,212
and he elects
to testify under oath.
1232
01:18:46,222 --> 01:18:49,727
Do you swear the testimony
you shall give in
the proceedings now before us...
1233
01:18:50,227 --> 01:18:54,232
shall be the truth,
the whole truth and nothing
but the truth, so help you God?
1234
01:18:54,232 --> 01:18:56,235
I do.
1235
01:18:59,740 --> 01:19:01,742
May it please the court,
I should like to note
the addition...
1236
01:19:01,742 --> 01:19:05,748
of Major Allan Gullion
to my staff.
1237
01:19:05,748 --> 01:19:08,250
He shall conduct
the cross-examination
of Col. Mitchell.
1238
01:19:08,250 --> 01:19:11,755
Who's he?
One of the best legal minds
in the army.
1239
01:19:11,755 --> 01:19:13,758
I didn't know
he was in Washington.
1240
01:19:18,764 --> 01:19:21,267
And now, Colonel,
as an aviation expert,
1241
01:19:21,267 --> 01:19:23,771
as a flyer who's been
highly honored
by his government...
1242
01:19:23,771 --> 01:19:26,274
for his services
in war and in peace,
1243
01:19:26,775 --> 01:19:28,777
is there something you wish
to say in conclusion?
1244
01:19:31,781 --> 01:19:35,285
As an officer
in the United States Army,
1245
01:19:35,285 --> 01:19:37,789
I had to choose between
my duty to the army...
1246
01:19:37,789 --> 01:19:40,793
and what I considered
to be my duty
to my country.
1247
01:19:42,294 --> 01:19:45,799
I chose the distasteful
method of inviting
my own court-martial...
1248
01:19:45,799 --> 01:19:50,304
because I felt
in no other way
could I focus attention...
1249
01:19:50,304 --> 01:19:52,808
upon a desperately
urgent problem.
1250
01:19:52,808 --> 01:19:56,813
I hope I've made it clear
that our country needs
an adequate air force.
1251
01:19:56,813 --> 01:20:01,820
But above and beyond that,
it needs immediate
consideration...
1252
01:20:01,820 --> 01:20:04,322
for the safety
of our flyers.
1253
01:20:07,827 --> 01:20:10,330
Order in the court.
1254
01:20:10,330 --> 01:20:13,835
Order in the court.
Thank you, Colonel.
1255
01:20:13,835 --> 01:20:17,840
I know your words
will not go unheeded
by the people of this country.
1256
01:20:17,840 --> 01:20:20,593
You may cross-examine.
1257
01:20:24,598 --> 01:20:28,603
Col. Mitchell, I've been
studying your war record,
1258
01:20:28,603 --> 01:20:32,108
and I must confess
it overwhelms me.
1259
01:20:32,108 --> 01:20:35,612
Those ribbons on your breast,
sir-- would you mind stating
what decorations they represent?
1260
01:20:37,615 --> 01:20:41,620
The Distinguished Service Medal,
the Distinguished Service Cross,
the Legion of Honor,
1261
01:20:41,620 --> 01:20:44,124
the Crown of Italy,
1262
01:20:44,124 --> 01:20:46,627
the Order of Saint Michael
and Saint George
and the Croix de Guerre.
1263
01:20:46,627 --> 01:20:49,630
That's very interesting, sir.
Now, Colonel,
to your knowledge,
1264
01:20:49,630 --> 01:20:53,135
are you the only American
officer in the army today
that wears such decorations?
1265
01:20:53,135 --> 01:20:55,138
Of course not.
Many other officers
wear them.
1266
01:20:55,638 --> 01:20:58,142
I see.
Now, tell me this.
1267
01:20:58,142 --> 01:21:01,146
Have any of these
other officers
ever been court-martialed?
1268
01:21:01,146 --> 01:21:05,151
Objection. That's immaterial.
You needn't answer that,
Colonel.
1269
01:21:05,151 --> 01:21:09,156
I was merely trying
to establish what
a unique officer you are.
1270
01:21:09,156 --> 01:21:11,159
But you are.
You are very,
very different...
1271
01:21:11,159 --> 01:21:13,161
and a special
sort of man.
1272
01:21:15,164 --> 01:21:18,168
I assume, Col. Mitchell,
you share with me
the respect I have...
1273
01:21:18,168 --> 01:21:20,170
for those officers
in the American army...
1274
01:21:20,170 --> 01:21:22,673
who wear as distinguished
decorations as your own?
1275
01:21:22,673 --> 01:21:24,676
Of course.
They earned them.
1276
01:21:24,676 --> 01:21:27,679
By risking their lives
in combat in the defense
of their country?
1277
01:21:27,679 --> 01:21:31,184
Yes.
Then why did you
call such men traitors?
1278
01:21:31,685 --> 01:21:34,688
Objection.
That question assumes
facts not in evidence.
1279
01:21:35,190 --> 01:21:38,193
Objection overruled.
1280
01:21:38,193 --> 01:21:40,696
To repeat the question,
1281
01:21:41,697 --> 01:21:43,700
in your statement
in San Antonio,
1282
01:21:43,700 --> 01:21:46,704
why did you call
such men traitors?
1283
01:21:46,704 --> 01:21:49,708
I wasn't referring
specifically to any officer.
1284
01:21:49,708 --> 01:21:51,710
But you certainly must
have had some men in mind...
1285
01:21:51,710 --> 01:21:55,215
when you accuse
the general staff of conduct
that was virtually treasonable.
1286
01:21:57,218 --> 01:22:01,223
I was thinking of the system,
the system of administering
air power...
1287
01:22:01,223 --> 01:22:03,226
in the army
and the navy.
1288
01:22:03,226 --> 01:22:07,231
I see. You were speaking
in generalities.
Yes.
1289
01:22:07,231 --> 01:22:11,236
But isn't it possible, sir,
that many of your statements
have been generalities?
1290
01:22:11,236 --> 01:22:13,739
No, sir.
1291
01:22:13,739 --> 01:22:18,745
And am I to understand,
when you use a phrase,
1292
01:22:18,745 --> 01:22:22,750
"guilty of criminal
negligence,"
that you meant that?
1293
01:22:23,251 --> 01:22:27,257
That statement was
and is accurate.
1294
01:22:27,257 --> 01:22:29,259
Negligence
of the ordinary--
No. Forgive me--
1295
01:22:29,259 --> 01:22:31,762
Forgive me
for interrupting, Colonel,
1296
01:22:32,263 --> 01:22:35,767
but I'm sure the court
would like to be clear
on this point.
1297
01:22:37,770 --> 01:22:41,775
You do then reiterate
your accusation...
1298
01:22:41,775 --> 01:22:47,282
that certain high-ranking
officers in the American
army are criminals.
1299
01:22:47,282 --> 01:22:49,285
You're twisting my words.
1300
01:22:50,786 --> 01:22:55,293
Col. Mitchell,
did your public attack
on the army...
1301
01:22:55,293 --> 01:22:58,797
start after
a series of accidents
involving your friends,
1302
01:22:58,797 --> 01:23:02,302
in which some
of your friends were--
were killed?
1303
01:23:02,302 --> 01:23:04,804
Yes.
Isn't it possible, sir,
1304
01:23:04,804 --> 01:23:10,312
that the sense of grief
that you felt
over their loss...
1305
01:23:10,812 --> 01:23:13,316
inspired you
to make your statement?
1306
01:23:13,316 --> 01:23:16,820
It did not.
Then why didn't you
attack your superiors...
1307
01:23:16,820 --> 01:23:20,325
before the accidents
involving your friends?
1308
01:23:20,325 --> 01:23:22,327
I wasn't ready.
1309
01:23:22,327 --> 01:23:25,331
You mean
you didn't think the iron
was hot enough to strike?
1310
01:23:27,334 --> 01:23:29,336
I recall no such thought.
1311
01:23:29,336 --> 01:23:33,342
And don't you mean
that you wanted to wait
until you felt sure...
1312
01:23:33,342 --> 01:23:36,846
that the newspapers
would be on your side?
1313
01:23:36,846 --> 01:23:39,349
On the side of a bigger
and better air service.
1314
01:23:39,349 --> 01:23:42,853
You consider the press qualified
to influence and dictate
to the armed forces?
1315
01:23:43,354 --> 01:23:46,858
I object to this whole
line of questioning
as irrelevant and immaterial.
1316
01:23:46,858 --> 01:23:50,864
The matter before this court
is the facts behind
the alleged offense.
1317
01:23:52,866 --> 01:23:54,869
May it please the court.
1318
01:23:54,869 --> 01:23:59,875
The accused is attempting
to establish justification
for the offense,
1319
01:23:59,875 --> 01:24:02,879
and I'm trying to prove
that there's no
justification.
1320
01:24:02,879 --> 01:24:04,882
Sustained.
1321
01:24:04,882 --> 01:24:09,371
Colonel, I have here
original letters
written by you...
1322
01:24:09,371 --> 01:24:13,877
to the War Department
over the period
of the last two years.
1323
01:24:14,878 --> 01:24:17,882
You recognize them?
They're mine, all right.
1324
01:24:17,882 --> 01:24:20,385
I've read them
with great interest.
1325
01:24:20,385 --> 01:24:24,390
I'm glad somebody did.
1326
01:24:24,390 --> 01:24:26,894
I should like to question you
about some of the statements...
1327
01:24:26,894 --> 01:24:29,397
you make
in these communications.
1328
01:24:29,397 --> 01:24:31,399
You say here that
"In future wars,
1329
01:24:31,399 --> 01:24:33,903
"soldiers will invade
peaceful lands...
1330
01:24:33,903 --> 01:24:38,408
by leaping in parachutes
from airplanes in the sky."
1331
01:24:38,408 --> 01:24:40,912
Would you care to reveal
who gave you
this startling information?
1332
01:24:40,912 --> 01:24:42,915
Nobody gave it to me.
1333
01:24:42,915 --> 01:24:46,920
It's quite obvious
to anyone with
the slightest foresight.
1334
01:24:46,920 --> 01:24:50,925
I see. Then do you mean
that the chiefs of staff
of the army and navy...
1335
01:24:50,925 --> 01:24:53,428
are not only treasonable
and incompetent...
1336
01:24:53,428 --> 01:24:55,931
but are lacking
in foresight as well?
1337
01:24:55,931 --> 01:24:58,935
- You said that.
- I didn't.
1338
01:24:58,935 --> 01:25:01,438
Now, in this letter,
you recommend that
the armed forces...
1339
01:25:01,438 --> 01:25:03,440
be separated
into three branches--
1340
01:25:03,440 --> 01:25:07,947
the army, navy
and the air force.
1341
01:25:07,947 --> 01:25:10,449
Is that your opinion?
It is.
1342
01:25:10,951 --> 01:25:13,453
Why did you seek to divide
the fighting forces
of this country?
1343
01:25:13,954 --> 01:25:15,957
I didn't mean
to divide them.
1344
01:25:15,957 --> 01:25:17,960
I recommended that
they all be combined...
1345
01:25:17,960 --> 01:25:20,462
under a single Department
of National Defense...
1346
01:25:20,462 --> 01:25:22,465
with specialists
in command of each branch.
1347
01:25:22,465 --> 01:25:25,469
And did you see yourself, sir,
1348
01:25:25,469 --> 01:25:28,473
in the role of the specialist
in command of the air force?
1349
01:25:28,473 --> 01:25:31,978
Objection. The line
of questioning up to now
is a familiar one...
1350
01:25:31,978 --> 01:25:34,480
seeking to falsely
characterize
the accused...
1351
01:25:34,982 --> 01:25:37,484
by the clever
manipulation
of semantics.
1352
01:25:38,486 --> 01:25:40,488
Sustained.
1353
01:25:42,491 --> 01:25:46,496
You state here that "The army
should investigate methods
of protection against air raids,
1354
01:25:46,496 --> 01:25:49,000
including alarm signals
and bomb shelters."
1355
01:25:49,000 --> 01:25:51,002
Bomb shelters.
1356
01:25:51,502 --> 01:25:56,009
Is it your actual belief that
this country is vulnerable
to attack from the air?
1357
01:25:56,009 --> 01:26:00,014
It is my belief, if not now,
at least within
the foreseeable future.
1358
01:26:00,014 --> 01:26:03,518
Col. Mitchell, do you have
any idea of the width
of the Atlantic Ocean?
1359
01:26:03,518 --> 01:26:05,520
Approximately 3,000 miles.
1360
01:26:05,520 --> 01:26:09,525
And the Pacific Ocean?
I know what you're
getting at, and I tell you,
1361
01:26:09,525 --> 01:26:14,032
it won't be long before
an airplane will fly
nonstop across both oceans.
1362
01:26:14,532 --> 01:26:16,534
Carrying bombs.
Carrying bombs.
1363
01:26:16,534 --> 01:26:21,041
Col. Mitchell, do you realize
that your declarations,
if taken seriously,
1364
01:26:21,041 --> 01:26:25,046
could result in creating
panic among the people
of our country?
1365
01:26:25,046 --> 01:26:29,051
I'd rather have the people
scared than dead.
1366
01:26:30,552 --> 01:26:32,555
Now, here's one
in which you propose
that the government...
1367
01:26:32,555 --> 01:26:35,059
build an academy
like West Point for airmen.
1368
01:26:35,059 --> 01:26:37,061
What do you have
against West Point?
1369
01:26:37,562 --> 01:26:39,564
I have nothing
against West Point.
1370
01:26:41,067 --> 01:26:43,569
It's a fine school
for infantrymen.
1371
01:26:43,569 --> 01:26:46,073
There should be
an equally good school
for flyers.
1372
01:26:47,574 --> 01:26:50,078
Now, in this one, you make
the statement that, quote,
1373
01:26:50,078 --> 01:26:52,081
"Airships traveling
a thousand miles an hour...
1374
01:26:52,581 --> 01:26:57,087
will fight each other
in the stratosphere."
Unquote.
1375
01:26:57,087 --> 01:27:01,592
Col. Mitchell, do you have
any comprehension how fast
a thousand miles an hour is?
1376
01:27:01,592 --> 01:27:05,097
Of course I do.
Do you know that it's faster
than the speed of sound?
1377
01:27:05,097 --> 01:27:09,103
It's approximately
250 miles faster
than the speed of sound.
1378
01:27:09,103 --> 01:27:12,607
Are there any airplanes today
that can go 250 miles an hour?
1379
01:27:14,109 --> 01:27:16,112
- Wedon't have any.
- I can tell you that.
1380
01:27:16,112 --> 01:27:21,118
But you said, sir, that
they wouldn't only go
250 miles an hour,
1381
01:27:21,118 --> 01:27:24,122
but they would go
250 miles...
1382
01:27:24,122 --> 01:27:26,625
faster than
the speed of sound.
1383
01:27:26,625 --> 01:27:29,628
That's correct.
Well, now, would it be
asking too much...
1384
01:27:30,130 --> 01:27:33,133
if I could learn from you
what crystal ball...
1385
01:27:33,133 --> 01:27:35,636
you got
these astounding facts from?
1386
01:27:35,636 --> 01:27:39,141
Objection. The prosecutor's
attempting to ridicule
the witness.
1387
01:27:39,141 --> 01:27:42,145
I'll answer that question.
There is no crystal ball.
1388
01:27:42,645 --> 01:27:44,648
Anyone with any knowledge
of the air knows...
1389
01:27:44,648 --> 01:27:49,654
that the ultimate speed
of aircraft
is almost unlimited.
1390
01:27:49,654 --> 01:27:52,158
It depends only
on technical developments.
1391
01:27:54,161 --> 01:27:57,164
Amazing.
1392
01:27:57,164 --> 01:28:00,168
Here's a letter
to headquarters you wrote
after a short trip to Hawaii.
1393
01:28:00,168 --> 01:28:04,173
You say, quote,
"The army and navy commands
here are concerned...
1394
01:28:04,173 --> 01:28:06,676
"principally with the question
of jurisdiction.
1395
01:28:06,676 --> 01:28:08,679
"There is so much
petty bickering between them...
1396
01:28:08,679 --> 01:28:12,184
that the Islands are virtually
undefended." Unquote.
1397
01:28:12,184 --> 01:28:14,686
Do you consider that
a proper observation...
1398
01:28:14,686 --> 01:28:17,690
to be made by an officer
about his superiors?
1399
01:28:17,690 --> 01:28:19,693
That was written
in connection
with my belief...
1400
01:28:19,693 --> 01:28:22,697
that air power
will control the Pacific.
1401
01:28:22,697 --> 01:28:26,202
It's very important that
the missions of the army,
the navy and the air...
1402
01:28:26,202 --> 01:28:29,206
be-- be sharply defined.
1403
01:28:30,707 --> 01:28:32,710
Thank you.
1404
01:28:32,710 --> 01:28:36,215
You seem to have quite a bit
to say about Hawaii, Colonel.
1405
01:28:36,215 --> 01:28:38,717
For example,
you write that...
1406
01:28:38,717 --> 01:28:44,225
"Pearl Harbor has no adequate
defense against air attack--
1407
01:28:44,225 --> 01:28:47,729
It hasn't.
"and that a foreign power
could attack...
1408
01:28:47,729 --> 01:28:51,300
and reduce the Hawaiian Islands
in a matter of minutes."
1409
01:28:51,300 --> 01:28:53,804
Do you actually
believe that?
I not only believe it,
1410
01:28:53,804 --> 01:28:56,808
if you'll look into
those letters, you'll find
my specific observations...
1411
01:28:56,808 --> 01:28:59,811
on how it can be done.
1412
01:28:59,811 --> 01:29:01,814
I was coming to that.
1413
01:29:01,814 --> 01:29:04,818
Oh, yes. Here it is.
1414
01:29:06,319 --> 01:29:11,326
Your letter dated
December 14, 1923.
1415
01:29:11,326 --> 01:29:13,328
I'll read this slowly
and distinctly...
1416
01:29:13,328 --> 01:29:17,333
because I want the court
to know that you are
second to none,
1417
01:29:17,333 --> 01:29:21,339
that you are an expert
in palmistry,
1418
01:29:21,339 --> 01:29:24,844
table-tipping
and the reading of tea leaves.
1419
01:29:24,844 --> 01:29:27,847
I object!
The prosecutor's
being abusive.
1420
01:29:27,847 --> 01:29:32,353
- Objection sustained.
- My apologies, Colonel.
1421
01:29:32,353 --> 01:29:34,856
I'll let your words
speak for themselves.
1422
01:29:36,358 --> 01:29:38,862
"Preceded by
scouting submarines,
1423
01:29:39,362 --> 01:29:43,367
"enemy aircraft carriers
will lay off
the island of Oahu...
1424
01:29:43,367 --> 01:29:46,872
"at a distance
of about 150 miles.
1425
01:29:46,872 --> 01:29:50,376
"The attack will be
launched in two waves
and without warning.
1426
01:29:50,877 --> 01:29:52,880
"The first wave will strike
at Pearl Harbor,
1427
01:29:53,380 --> 01:29:56,885
"Schofield Barracks,
and the Ford Island airdrome...
1428
01:29:56,885 --> 01:29:59,889
"and the naval
fuel and ammunition dumps.
1429
01:29:59,889 --> 01:30:03,894
"This attack will be followed
by a second shortly thereafter,
1430
01:30:03,894 --> 01:30:07,899
its objectives being
the city and wharfs
of Honolulu."
1431
01:30:10,402 --> 01:30:12,404
Colonel--
1432
01:30:12,404 --> 01:30:14,407
Colonel, what was
your condition--
1433
01:30:14,908 --> 01:30:17,912
What was your state of mind
when you wrote this?
1434
01:30:17,912 --> 01:30:21,416
If you mean was I crazy,
the answer is no.
1435
01:30:21,416 --> 01:30:25,421
And you still cling
to this, uh, prediction?
1436
01:30:25,421 --> 01:30:29,426
Unless we repair
our defenses, we can
certainly be attacked.
1437
01:30:29,927 --> 01:30:32,931
I see. Now, there's
one piece of information...
1438
01:30:32,931 --> 01:30:34,934
I couldn't seem to find
in your communications.
1439
01:30:34,934 --> 01:30:36,936
Perhaps you could
enlighten us.
1440
01:30:36,936 --> 01:30:40,941
Does your crystal ball
reveal by what enemy...
1441
01:30:40,941 --> 01:30:42,944
this mythical attack
will be made?
1442
01:30:42,944 --> 01:30:45,948
Objection! The prosecutor
is goading the witness.
By whom, Colonel? By whom?
1443
01:30:45,948 --> 01:30:48,952
Will the court
instruct the witness
not to answer that question?
1444
01:30:49,452 --> 01:30:51,455
I'll answer that question.
1445
01:30:51,455 --> 01:30:53,958
The attack will be made
by the Japanese.
1446
01:31:00,466 --> 01:31:03,470
The prosecution would like
to submit these documents...
1447
01:31:03,470 --> 01:31:05,473
as the exhibit
next in order.
1448
01:31:05,473 --> 01:31:07,475
They will be received.
1449
01:31:07,475 --> 01:31:11,981
Col. Mitchell,
what explanation
the War Department...
1450
01:31:11,981 --> 01:31:14,484
will have to make
to the Japanese
ambassador...
1451
01:31:14,484 --> 01:31:16,988
is beyond the province
of this court.
1452
01:31:16,988 --> 01:31:19,992
However, now that you
have said your say,
1453
01:31:19,992 --> 01:31:24,497
now that you have done
your-- your little piece,
1454
01:31:24,998 --> 01:31:28,002
now that you have, uh,
proclaimed your vision,
1455
01:31:28,502 --> 01:31:31,006
might you not say
that you have
overstated your case,
1456
01:31:31,006 --> 01:31:36,012
and, upon sober reflection,
things aren't as bad
as you said?
1457
01:31:36,012 --> 01:31:38,015
Most certainly not.
1458
01:31:38,515 --> 01:31:41,019
I meant every word of it,
and I still do.
1459
01:31:41,019 --> 01:31:44,023
Then I submit,
Col. Mitchell,
1460
01:31:44,023 --> 01:31:49,029
that you are guilty
of the most flagrant
disorder...
1461
01:31:49,029 --> 01:31:52,033
to the prejudice
of good
military discipline.
1462
01:31:52,033 --> 01:31:54,536
I don't agree.
1463
01:31:55,537 --> 01:31:58,541
Col. Mitchell,
is it, uh,
1464
01:31:58,541 --> 01:32:01,045
is it your desire today
to remain in the army?
1465
01:32:01,045 --> 01:32:04,549
- It is.
- And should the occasion
arise in peace or war,
1466
01:32:04,549 --> 01:32:06,551
and you thought
your superiors wrong,
1467
01:32:07,052 --> 01:32:08,554
would you rush
to the newspapers...
1468
01:32:09,055 --> 01:32:11,057
with attacks
against their behavior?
1469
01:32:11,057 --> 01:32:14,561
Objection. That question
is ridiculous and outrageous.
1470
01:32:14,561 --> 01:32:19,068
The witness is being asked to
speculate on his future conduct.
1471
01:32:19,068 --> 01:32:21,070
Why not? Why not,
if the witness
can speculate...
1472
01:32:21,070 --> 01:32:24,074
on the future conduct
of the world
and its armies?
1473
01:32:24,574 --> 01:32:27,078
The issue bears
on the only question
before this court--
1474
01:32:27,578 --> 01:32:31,083
Col. Mitchell's
qualifications to remain
in the United States Army.
1475
01:32:31,083 --> 01:32:33,086
I'll answer that, Major.
1476
01:32:34,587 --> 01:32:37,091
I don't know
what I would do tomorrow.
1477
01:32:37,091 --> 01:32:41,096
Then you don't know
if you could behave
as an army man.
1478
01:32:41,596 --> 01:32:44,100
- I didn't say that.
- Are you ready...
1479
01:32:44,100 --> 01:32:48,105
to give
unquestioned obedience
to your superiors,
1480
01:32:48,105 --> 01:32:52,610
even though you may
consider their conduct
negligent and incompetent?
1481
01:32:52,610 --> 01:32:55,614
I consider myself
a good soldier.
1482
01:32:55,614 --> 01:32:58,118
Oh. Well, now,
1483
01:32:59,619 --> 01:33:02,623
then you
have changed from
that William Mitchell...
1484
01:33:02,623 --> 01:33:05,627
who denounced
his superiors in Texas.
1485
01:33:05,627 --> 01:33:08,131
- I have not changed.
- Oh, then you still
insist upon...
1486
01:33:08,131 --> 01:33:10,634
your right
to break an army rule.
1487
01:33:10,634 --> 01:33:14,639
- I didn't say that either.
- I am merely trying
to establish...
1488
01:33:14,639 --> 01:33:19,145
your exact feelings
on the question
of insubordination.
1489
01:33:21,148 --> 01:33:23,650
Col. Mitchell,
1490
01:33:23,650 --> 01:33:26,154
what is
the first duty...
1491
01:33:26,154 --> 01:33:28,657
of a soldier
to his superior?
1492
01:33:30,659 --> 01:33:34,164
- We've been over that.
- Are you afraid
of the word, sir?
1493
01:33:35,666 --> 01:33:38,670
- What word?
- The word that
answers my question,
1494
01:33:39,171 --> 01:33:41,673
in all
the armies of the world,
1495
01:33:41,673 --> 01:33:44,177
is the word "obedience."
1496
01:33:44,177 --> 01:33:47,181
You're trying to quibble me
out of the army.
1497
01:33:47,681 --> 01:33:49,684
You know better than
to call me disobedient.
1498
01:33:49,684 --> 01:33:53,189
Col. Mitchell,
why didn't you
resign from the army...
1499
01:33:53,189 --> 01:33:56,193
and conduct your campaign
legitimately
from a civilian position?
1500
01:33:56,193 --> 01:33:59,196
Because
I'm an army man, sir.
1501
01:33:59,697 --> 01:34:04,203
And do you consider
your statement in Texas
justified?
1502
01:34:04,703 --> 01:34:07,707
Objection.
The witness is being asked
to pass judgment on himself.
1503
01:34:08,208 --> 01:34:13,215
- I'll answer. My--
- Col. Mitchell, you don't
have to answer that question.
1504
01:34:13,215 --> 01:34:15,717
Objection sustained.
1505
01:34:17,720 --> 01:34:21,725
In view, then, of your
present opinion...
1506
01:34:22,226 --> 01:34:26,731
that your superiors
are negligent
and incompetent,
1507
01:34:26,731 --> 01:34:30,236
could you give them
unquestioned obedience...
1508
01:34:30,236 --> 01:34:32,239
should you be
returned to duty?
1509
01:34:32,239 --> 01:34:36,244
I ask the court
to instruct the witness
not to answer that question.
1510
01:34:36,244 --> 01:34:38,747
I'll answer
that question too.
1511
01:34:38,747 --> 01:34:41,751
You have asked me
to state that I am unfit
to remain in the army...
1512
01:34:41,751 --> 01:34:47,258
because I have
incurred the hostility
of my superior officers.
1513
01:34:47,258 --> 01:34:51,263
I can't admit that,
and I won't.
1514
01:34:53,266 --> 01:34:56,270
I've been wearing the uniform
of the United States Army...
1515
01:34:56,770 --> 01:34:59,274
most of my adult life,
1516
01:34:59,274 --> 01:35:01,776
and I've worn it
with pride.
1517
01:35:02,278 --> 01:35:07,284
But if being a good soldier
is your kind
of good soldier,
1518
01:35:07,284 --> 01:35:12,290
of being unable
to think for himself
and say what he thinks,
1519
01:35:12,290 --> 01:35:16,296
of being narrow
and blind...
1520
01:35:16,296 --> 01:35:18,298
and insensible
to a higher duty,
1521
01:35:20,801 --> 01:35:23,805
you can have the uniform
and all that goes with it.
1522
01:35:28,311 --> 01:35:30,814
If trying to do something
for your country,
1523
01:35:32,316 --> 01:35:35,320
if fighting
to correct injustice...
1524
01:35:35,320 --> 01:35:37,823
is being a bad soldier,
1525
01:35:37,823 --> 01:35:40,827
then I'm glad
I'm a bad soldier.
1526
01:35:42,329 --> 01:35:46,834
This issue goes far beyond
being a good soldier in--
1527
01:35:46,834 --> 01:35:48,837
in his sense of the word.
1528
01:35:48,837 --> 01:35:50,840
It goes beyond
blind obedience...
1529
01:35:50,840 --> 01:35:54,845
and depends on--
on a man's faith...
1530
01:35:54,845 --> 01:35:58,850
in his knowledge
of what is right.
1531
01:36:01,854 --> 01:36:04,858
If being
a good soldier is...
1532
01:36:05,359 --> 01:36:09,864
submitting dumbly
and passively to--
1533
01:36:09,864 --> 01:36:13,869
to injustice, indecision
and complacency, then I'm--
1534
01:36:17,374 --> 01:36:19,377
I'm glad I'm a bad one.
1535
01:36:23,382 --> 01:36:25,385
Billy.
1536
01:36:29,390 --> 01:36:32,394
Thank you, Col. Mitchell.
1537
01:36:34,396 --> 01:36:37,400
That's all. No further
cross-examination.
1538
01:36:37,400 --> 01:36:39,403
The army rests its case.
1539
01:36:40,904 --> 01:36:43,908
Does the defense
wish to make
a closing statement?
1540
01:36:43,908 --> 01:36:46,912
The defense
has nothing further.
1541
01:36:46,912 --> 01:36:49,415
The court will retire
to consider its finding.
1542
01:37:15,833 --> 01:37:17,836
Stand up when
the court enters!
1543
01:37:36,860 --> 01:37:38,863
The court
will come to order.
1544
01:37:40,364 --> 01:37:42,367
The accused will stand.
1545
01:37:50,377 --> 01:37:52,881
Col. William Mitchell,
1546
01:37:52,881 --> 01:37:54,883
the court,
in closed session...
1547
01:37:54,883 --> 01:37:57,386
and upon secret
written ballot,
1548
01:37:57,386 --> 01:37:59,890
two-thirds of the members
present at the time
this vote was taken...
1549
01:37:59,890 --> 01:38:01,892
concurring therein,
1550
01:38:01,892 --> 01:38:05,897
finds you, of all specifications
and the charge, guilty.
1551
01:38:09,903 --> 01:38:11,905
Order in the court.
1552
01:38:16,410 --> 01:38:18,413
The court,
again in closed session...
1553
01:38:18,914 --> 01:38:20,917
and upon secret
written ballot,
1554
01:38:20,917 --> 01:38:24,421
two-thirds of the members
present concurring therein,
1555
01:38:24,421 --> 01:38:29,427
sentences you to be
suspended from rank,
command and duty...
1556
01:38:29,427 --> 01:38:33,432
with forfeiture of all pay
and allowances for a period
of five years.
1557
01:38:33,432 --> 01:38:38,439
The court is thus lenient
because of your military
record during the World War.
1558
01:38:40,441 --> 01:38:42,444
The court has adjourned.
1559
01:38:52,457 --> 01:38:54,961
Do you have a statement
to make, Colonel?
Will you remain in Washington?
1560
01:38:57,964 --> 01:39:00,968
No comment.
How do you feel about
the army now, Colonel?
1561
01:39:02,971 --> 01:39:06,976
The army owes me nothing.
I owe the army everything.
1562
01:39:06,976 --> 01:39:09,479
What do you intend
on doing--
1563
01:39:16,355 --> 01:39:17,356
Ten-hut!
1564
01:39:37,382 --> 01:39:39,384
Thank you, gentlemen.
1565
01:39:43,389 --> 01:39:45,392
Russ.
1566
01:39:47,395 --> 01:39:49,397
Carry on.133726
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