Press Release
Press Release · Wednesday, May 3, 2000

Washington, DC…The National Archives and Records Administration will display President Harry S. Truman's statement, with notations in his own hand, that designated Gen. Douglas MacArthur Commander of the United Nations forces in Korea. The exhibit, which is free and open to the public June 12 through June 28, in the Rotunda of the National Archives Building, honors the 1.5 million Americans who served in the Korean War. The National Archives is located on Constitution Avenue, between 7th and 9th Streets, NW. Hours are 10 A.M. to 9 P.M. daily.

President Truman's appointment of Gen. MacArthur was part of his quick response to the communist invasion of South Korea on June 25, 1950. Without consulting Congress, Truman sent American troops to join United Nations allies assisting South Korea repel the attack. Less than a year later, on April 11, 1951, however, the President fired Gen. MacArthur, citing his insubordination and his public demands to expand the war into China. He was replaced by Lt. Gen. Matthew Ridgeway. The war ended on July 27, 1953, with a cease fire near the 38th parallel, the line that divided the two Koreas before the fighting began.

For additional PRESS information, please contact the National Archives Public Affairs staff at (301) 837-1700 or by e-mail.

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