I think that if the public knew it would meant the call for open warfate with Russia. Patton already hated the Russians, think what a stink he would have made about them having Americans hostage. I wouldn't have put it past him to start a drive into the Russian held areas without authorization.

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PEOPLE SLEEP PEACEABLY IN THEIR BEDS AT NIGHT ONLY BECAUSE ROUGH MEN STAND READY TO DO VIOLENCE ON THEIR BEHALF. GEORGE ORWELL