That's NOT what Rummy said. this is what he said.
SEC. RUMSFELD: The other day, after there was a big threat alert in Washington, D.C. in connection with the elections, as I recall, I looked outside the Pentagon and there were six or eight up-armored humvees. They’re not there anymore. [Cheers] [Applause] They’re en route out here, I can assure you. Next. Way in the back. Yes.
Well they twisted that one pretty good
There is some history here. In WWII, allied forces in US had lots of equipment, but not the best. The main battle tank was too weak, nicknamed "tommie-cookers" for their propensity to explode. The main battle tank we have now has been tested and the Army knows the Israeli Merkava is much better.
In Vietnam, the Army refused the M-16, then when it was adopted, changed the cartridge so that the rifles would jam.
And, in Vietnam, half the casualties were by mines.
There are many anti-mine vehicles from wars in South African and Rhodesia conflict. We could use them.
The uparmoured Hummvees should be the only vehicle in an area with mines and car bombs everywhere. Myself, I would prefer all tanks and armoured bulldozers, more use of artillery.....
no pity for Sec of Defense. He is a tough old coot, and should have kept his mouth shut. Reminds me of Patton slapping soldiers.
I am no soldier, and would comments from those with experience using Merkava and up armoured HummVee. Thanks