Replies

That sounds plausible but I don't think it is correct. Scott, who wrote "God is My Co-Pilot" was very supportive of Chiang Kai-shek.

This particular book "Flying Tiger" had a section about the Communist influence in China and that is where I got the quote about the bridges.

I actually got to meet Scott when he was in his 80's and he was in great shape and mentally sharp. I did not get to talk with him too long but did get in some questions about Joe Stilwell, and the State Department. Scott had mellowed a bit but still thought the country was being run by one-worlders, or at least they had a lot of influence.

It is a very interesting era in Chinese history - 1910 or so thru 1945. I have only recently, the last 3 years or so began looking at it with some in depth interest.
Scott entered the Chinese theater initially via becoming a member of the Assam-Burma-China Ferry Command. Flying c-47's(DC-3s)He was a Colonel, and along with Colonel Caleb Hayes came to Stilwell in Burma with a message from Gen Hap Arnold instructing them to evacuate Stilwell and his staff most urgently. Stilwell declined the invite. He welcomed the planes to take out his staff, but he had other plans and would remain on the ground with the troops.
At the point Stilwell was a 3-star General and he didn't think it worth his time to explain his reasoning to a couple of Air Force Colonels.
Scott later joined up with Claire Chennault, who did not like or pretend to like, Stilwell. Chennault became a favorite of Gen. Chiang and TV Soong because of the supply possibility he offered - 5-10,00 tons a month. All going to Peanuts larder/stockpile. Madame Chiang played in this game heavily also. And she was quick to paint a dashing and daring scenario of the CBI pilots. Who were very brave and dying at a rapid rate to move cargo/supplies into KMY warehouses. Where most of it sat. It was becoming evident that the future contention of the Chennault Cult, "Walking Joe" did not understand air power, had its roots in matters such as this.

I borrowed heavily from the best all around book I have been able to locate on this era and the actors involved - "Stilwell and the American Experience in China - 1911-1945"...by Barbara Tuchman. I highly recommend it for a more complete picture of the situation there during these times.