The Day Montgomery Learned Americans Wouldn't Accept His Command

January 7, 1945, Zonhoven, Belgium: Field Marshal Bernard Montgomery stood before war correspondents giving a press conference about the Battle of the Bulge. According to the transcript, Montgomery spoke for over an hour describing how British forces under his command stopped the German offensive. Montgomery said: "As soon as I saw what was happening I took certain steps myself to ensure that if the Germans got to the Meuse they would certainly not get over that river." Montgomery said: "The battle has been most interesting; I think possibly one of the most interesting and tricky battles I have ever handled." American generals listening to the press conference, according to documented reactions, were furious. General Omar Bradley, according to his account, was listening to BBC radio and was enraged that Montgomery "belittled the American command." General George Patton's diary, January 7, 1945: "Monty says he has won the battle. He should be shot." Bradley told Eisenhower he would "resign his command" rather than serve under Montgomery permanently. Eisenhower drafted message threatening his own resignation. Churchill intervened, forced Montgomery to issue apology January 11th. This was the day Montgomery learned Americans wouldn't accept his command.

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Disclaimer: This video presents historical events based on press conference transcripts, diary entries, and verified documents. Historical interpretations may vary among historians. Viewers are encouraged to consult multiple sources when studying this period.