When and where was Walter Bedell Smith born?
Walter Bedell Smith was born in Indianapolis, Indiana on the 5th of October 1895. He grew up as the elder of two sons to William Long Smith and Ida Francis Bedell.
Questions about Walter Bedell Smith
Short answers, pulled from the story.
What role did Walter Bedell Smith hold during World War II?
Walter Bedell Smith served as chief of staff for General Dwight D. Eisenhower at Allied Forces Headquarters starting on the 15th of September 1942. He negotiated food provisions for Dutch civilians with Nazi governor Arthur Seyss-Inquart on the 30th of April 1945 and cosigned the German surrender document on the 7th of May 1945.
Who appointed Walter Bedell Smith as Director Central Intelligence Agency?
President Harry S Truman selected Smith as Director Central Intelligence Agency on the 7th of October 1950. The position had been established in 1946 but remained vacant until Truman decided Smith was needed following the North Korean invasion of South Korea.
Why did Walter Bedell Smith resign from his post as Director Central Intelligence Agency?
Walter Bedell Smith resigned as Director Central Intelligence Agency three days after being confirmed as Under Secretary State on the 6th of February 1953. President-elect Dwight D. Eisenhower announced Smith would become Under Secretary State on the 11th of January 1953.
When did Walter Bedell Smith die and where is he buried?
Walter Bedell Smith died on the 9th of August 1961 while en route to Walter Reed Army Hospital after suffering a heart attack at home in Washington D.C. He was buried next to General George C. Marshall in Section 7 of Arlington National Cemetery after his death in 1963.