JF
James Forrestal
21quotes
James Forrestal
#### Full Name and Common Aliases
James Vincent Forrestal was an American politician who served as the first Secretary of Defense from 1947 to 1949.
Birth and Death Dates
Forrestal was born on February 15, 1892, in Brooklyn, New York, and died on May 22, 1949, after falling out of a window at Bethesda Naval Hospital.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Nationality: American
Profession: Politician, Lawyer
Early Life and Background
Forrestal was the son of Irish immigrant parents. He attended Princeton University, where he graduated in 1914 with a degree in economics. During World War I, Forrestal served as a naval aviator in the United States Navy Reserve.
Major Accomplishments
- First Secretary of Defense: Forrestal played a crucial role in establishing the Department of Defense and serving as its first secretary.
- Naval Aviation Pioneer: He was one of the early pioneers of naval aviation, instrumental in developing the U.S. Navy's air power capabilities.
- Economic Advisor: As an economist and lawyer, Forrestal served as an advisor to President Franklin D. Roosevelt on economic matters.
Notable Works or Actions
Forrestal played a key role in shaping the post-war defense strategy of the United States. He was instrumental in establishing the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the National Security Council. His tenure as Secretary of Defense was marked by significant reforms, including the creation of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA).
Impact and Legacy
Forrestal's legacy is multifaceted:
- Defense Reforms: His contributions to the establishment of the Department of Defense and its various agencies have had a lasting impact on American national security.
- Naval Aviation: Forrestal's pioneering work in naval aviation paved the way for the development of modern naval air power capabilities.
- Economic Thought: As an economist, Forrestal's ideas on economic policy influenced U.S. domestic and foreign policy.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
James Forrestal is remembered for his innovative approach to national defense and his commitment to reforming the military establishment. His quotes often reflect his forward-thinking views on security, diplomacy, and international relations. As one of the key architects of post-war American defense strategy, Forrestal's ideas continue to influence policymakers and scholars today.
This biography provides a comprehensive overview of James Forrestal's life, highlighting his significant contributions to national defense, naval aviation, and economic thought. His quotes and legacy serve as a testament to his enduring impact on U.S. foreign policy and national security.
Quotes by James Forrestal
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By providing outstanding economic leadership, this country can wage its attack successfully – and can thereby build the foundations of a peaceful world.
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Moreover, the accomplishment of Russia’s aims has been greatly simplified by the fact that we have heretofore offered the world no practical antidote for the Russian poison.
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Courage is the capacity to conduct oneself with restraint in times of prosperity and with courage and tenacity when things do not go well...
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The raising of that flag on Suribachi means a Marine Corps for the next 500 years.
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Moreover, the accomplishment of Russia's aims has been greatly simplified by the fact that we have heretofore offered the world no practical antidote for the Russian poison.
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Courage is the capacity to conduct oneself with restraint in times of prosperity and with courage and tenacity when things do not go well....
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If all Europe lies flat while the Russian mob tramps over it, we will then be faced with a war under difficult circumstances, and with a very good chance of losing it.
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By providing outstanding economic leadership, this country can wage its attack successfully - and can thereby build the foundations of a peaceful world.
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As in the war of 1941-45, our victory and our survival depend on how and where we attack.
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