Edit: Eisenhower was at the time Supreme Allied Commander. FDR was the President of the United…
When an important historical event occurs, speeches are written in advance. Typically, different speeches are written for different possible outcomes. Occasionally, the speeches that did not get used get released. Here is the contingency speech written for General Eisenhower if the D-Day Invasion failed.
Our landings in the Cherbourg-Havre area have failed to gain a satisfactory foothold and I have withdrawn the troops,“ Eisenhower wrote. "My decision to attack at this time and place was based upon the best information available. The troops, the air and the Navy did all that bravery and devotion to duty could do. If any blame or fault attaches to the attempt it is mine alone.
The speech was written on a small note and shoved into his pocket, and includes several changes. Most of the changes and annotations served to increase the sense that Eisenhower was to blame for this failure, rather than passing the buck.
Edit: Eisenhower was, at the time, Supreme Allied Commander. FDR was the President of the United States.
Edit: Eisenhower was at the time Supreme Allied Commander. FDR was the President of the United…
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