Crosswell, Beetle - The Life Of General Bedell Smith

Abstract

     It is almost impossible to read a book about General Dwight David Eisenhower and not find references to General Walter Bedell Smith. Throughout the Second World War, Smith worked alongside Eisenhower as his Chief of Staff and most trusted assistant, directing the largest, most complex, and most important command organization in American military history. While the commander made the decisions, Smith supervised the preparation of the orders that got the military forces moving: in Sicily, Italy, and for the Invasion of Normandy in June 1944. In no small way, Eisenhower was successful because of "Beetle" Smith's competent leadership and sound advice, a fact he acknowledged after Smith 's death in 1961. He never carried the responsibility of senior combat command, yet his role in the Allied defeat of Germany was as critical as anyone in Europe. After the war, he served President Harry S. Truman as ambassador to the Soviet Union, Director of the Central Intelligence Agency, and Under Secretary of State. In spite of this distinguished career, few are aware of Smith or his role in twentieth-century American history.