Letters: Jul. 22, 1929

(5 of 5)

Senectissimus & Pershing Sirs: In your issue of July 1, p. 10, in reference to Senator Warren's term in the Senate, you state in the last paragraph that "his influence was largely responsible for the selection of his son-in-law, General John Joseph Pershing, to command the A. E. F."* On as important a matter as this, regardless of one's feelings for General Pershing, the records should be kept straight. If you will remember, General Pershing had proven himself to the War Department to be a commander who could follow orders to the very last letter.** That was the type of a commanding officer whom Secretary Baker desired, and it was Secretary Baker and General Moseley, now of El Paso, who were responsible for the selection of Gen eral Pershing for his high command. Senectissimus may have had something to do with Pershing's marvelous rise from Captain to Brigadier, but in this important matter he had no hand. This can be easily verified by consulting with Ex-Secretary Newton Diehl Baker or Brigadier General George Van Horn Moseley in com mand of the First Cavalry Division of El Paso, Texas. PAUL GALLAGHER, M. D.

El Paso, Tex.

* Last week Sir Douglas announced the personnel (27 men) of this expedition, which sails next month on the Discovery, oldtime ship of the late Explorer Robert Falcon Scott. The Mawson purpose: to spend two years mapping Antarctica. †Navigazione General Italiana. These motor-ships, each propelled by two diesel motors, can run six months without stopping. ** In the Mexican fiasco over General Pancho Villa.