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Past opinions provide perspective

Tue., April 11, 2017

Looking Back reviews opinions published in The Spokesman-Review during this week in history.

MacArthur fired, April, 11, 1951

An S-R editorial blasted President Harry Truman’s decision to dismiss Gen. Douglas MacArthur, who wanted to widen the Korea war by attacking China.

“President Truman had every legal right, as commander in chief of the armed forces, to fire General MacArthur. But the president has now brought up on himself a torrent of criticism that even he may not be able to withstand.

“The general’s return to this country is bound to stimulate intense feelings of popular frustration over Mr. Truman’s continuance in the White House, and there may be calls for his impeachment because of his fateful decision.”

It concluded: “This is indeed a sad day in the present fight for survival against the forces of communist tyranny. But the turning point is coming and coming fast. Every loyal American should maintain a level head and a strong heart as the nation faces one of the greatest crises in history.”

Knezovich selected, April 11, 2006

An S-R editorial noted the surprise choice of Ozzie Knezovich to replace departing Spokane County Sheriff Mark Sterk.

“The three commissioners, all Republicans, bypassed the applicant anointed by outgoing Republican Sheriff Mark Sterk and endorsed by the Spokane County Republican Central Committee that Sterk heads. Instead, they unanimously named Ozzie Knezovich to finish Sterk’s unexpired term. What’s more, Knezovich is a union guy, a role not commonly associated with Republican preferences.

“Sterk had recommended Spokane Valley Police Chief Cal Walker, and a majority of the GOP’s precinct committee members shared that position. Walker is far better known to Spokane County residents, not only because of his present job but also because of the prominent role he played as a sheriff’s deputy in the investigation of serial killer Robert Yates.”

It went on to say: “Clearly, the new sheriff has some desirable qualities. He has a college degree, something that’s been less common among this community’s top law-enforcement officers than among their subordinates. He’s been in the department long enough – 10 years – to recognize a need for more openness. If he follows through, that would be another refreshing departure from the norm in the Spokane police culture.

“Furthermore, as the outgoing head of the deputies union, Knezovich can expect the support of the rank and file. And while that’s a good thing for morale’s sake, it’s also a potential cause for concern. As he puts his professional, administrative and leadership skills to work, the new sheriff needs to remember he is the boss, not a buddy.”