[I’m having a hard time believing that this is true!]
Somewhat the same here. My short stint in the Army as a draftee in the 50’s was with tough, kick ass and take names Regulars. The brass at that time and most assuredly those of prior Army service would have laughed this General out of command. Giving him the ultimate insulting award of a pair of pink panties.
I searched and no major sources came up. Not real unusual though.