Curtis LeMay was a renowned US Air Force general, credited with developing the strategic bombing campaign against Japan in World War II, which significantly contributed to the war's conclusion. He also reorganized the Strategic Air Command (SAC) into an effective force capable of waging a nuclear war against the Soviet Union if necessary.
Born and raised in Columbus, Ohio, LeMay attended Ohio State University, where he joined the ROTC program, leading to his commission as a second lieutenant in the US Army Air Corps in 1930. He transferred to bombers in 1937 and demonstrated exceptional skills in bombing tactics and strategies.
During World War II, LeMay was a lieutenant colonel in the Eighth Air Force, commanding the 305th Bomber Group in Europe, and later the 3rd Bombardment Division. His outstanding achievements led to his promotion to major general and command of XXI Bomber Command in the Pacific Theater, where he oversaw B-29 bomber operations against Japan. His strategies resulted in the devastating "fire jobs" campaign, which killed over one million Japanese civilians.
After the war, LeMay was transferred to the Pentagon, then back to Europe as USAFE commander, and later as Chief of Operations for the Berlin Airlift. He was assigned to head SAC in 1949, tasked with transforming it into a force capable of conducting a nuclear war, which he accomplished with great effectiveness.
However, LeMay's success in battle did not translate to success in Washington. His aggressive and belligerent style, combined with his ultra-right-wing politics and advocacy of nuclear war, led to clashes with colleagues and superiors. He also incurred criticism for his handling of the Cuban Missile Crisis and his support for the Vietnam War.
LeMay retired in 1965 and became involved in radical right-wing politics, eventually serving as the vice-presidential candidate for George Wallace in the 1968 presidential campaign. His provocative statements and extremist views alienated many voters and damaged the campaign.
After the campaign, LeMay continued to write books criticizing the influence of "radicals" and "liberals" in American society. He passed away in 1990.
