Editorial Note
On July 19, President Truman transmitted a special message to Congress regarding the conflict in Korea and its implications for the national security of the United States. After describing the military situation, the President stated the following: “In addition to the direct military effort we and other members of the United Nations are making in Korea, the outbreak of aggression there requires us to consider its implications for peace throughout the world. The attack upon the Republic of Korea makes it plain beyond all doubt that the international communist movement is prepared to use armed invasion to conquer independent nations. We must therefore recognize the possibility that armed aggression may take place in other areas.” The President reported that he had ordered therefore the strengthening of U.S. forces in support of the Philippines and the speeding up of military assistance to the Philippines and Indochina. He also stated that he had ordered the Seventh Fleet to prevent any attack on Formosa.
In addition, he announced that he had authorized the Secretary of Defense to exceed the budgeted strength of military personnel, to use the Selective Service system if necessary, and to call up National Guard and Reserve forces as required. The President asked Congress to support this program by authorizing funds for the 1951 Mutual Defense Assistance Program and by enacting measures designed to finance the increased defense effort, to control inflation, and to increase production. For the text of the message, see Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: Harry S. Truman, 1950, pages 527–537.
On the evening of July 19, President Truman delivered a radio and television address to the American people describing the situation in Korea and the steps which were being taken to meet it. For text, see ibid., pages 537–542.
The additional funds requested by the President were provided by Congress in the first supplemental appropriations bill for fiscal year 1951. For information on Congressional action with respect to this measure, see editorial note, page 352.