.png)
 |
| Victor Davis Hanson |
By Victor Davis Hanson, Mar. 25, 2014, National Review
The
Roosevelt administration once talked loudly of pivoting to Asia to thwart a
rising Japan. As a token of its seriousness, in May 1940 it moved the home port
of the Seventh Fleet from San Diego to Pearl Harbor — but without beefing up
the fleet’s strength.
The then-commander of the Pacific Fleet, Admiral James
O. Richardson, an expert on the Japanese Imperial Navy, protested vehemently
over such a reckless redeployment. He felt that the move might invite, but
could not guard against, surprise attack.
Richardson was eventually relieved of his command and
his career was ruined — even as he was later proved right when Japan attacked
Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.
Britain
at the same time promoted a loud Singapore Strategy, trumpeting its Malaysian
base as the “Gibraltar of the Pacific.” But London did not send out up-to-date
planes, carriers, or gunnery to the Pacific.
Japan
was not impressed. It surprise-attacked the base right after Pearl Harbor. The
British surrendered Singapore in February 1942, in the most ignominious defeat
in British military history.
Follow Larry Elder on Twitter
"LIke" Larry Elder on Facebook
No comments:
Post a Comment
Comment Policy:
The author of this blog will attempt to engage in conversation via the comments section whenever possible and recognize the 24/7 nature of the internet. Moderating and posting of comments will occur during regular operational hours Monday through Friday. Comments submitted after hours or on weekends will be read and posted as early as possible, however admins and/or the author is unable to commit to replying to every comment posted.
This is a moderated blog. That means all comments will be reviewed before posting. In addition, it is expected that participants will treat each other, as well as the author and admin, with respect. Comments that contain vulgar or abusive language; personal attacks of any kind will not be posted. Comments that are spam or that promote services or products will not be posted. It is requested that all comments remain on topic.
The Elder Statement blog does not guarantee or warrant that any information posted by individuals on this blog is correct, and disclaims any liability for any loss or damage resulting from reliance on any such information. The Elder Statement blog may not be able to verify, does not warrant or guarantee, and assumes no liability for anything posted on this website by any other person. The Elder Statement blog does not endorse, support or otherwise promote any private or commercial entity or the information, products or services contained on those Web sites that may be reached through links on our Web site.
To protect individual privacy and the privacy of others, please do not include phone numbers, addresses or email details in the body of a comment. Such information will result in removal of a comment.
Thank you for your attention.
The Elder Statement