Sept. 29, 1962 - Former Maj. Gen. Edwin A. Walker (pictured right) demanded “violent vocal protest” today against use of Federal troops in Mississippi. Asked by newsmen whether he was advocating armed resistance to the Federal Government, Mr. Walker replied in slow and measured words: “In answer to your question, any violence or bloodshed in Mississippi, from what I see here and with regard to myself, would only be initiated by the Federal Government. The bloodshed would be on their heads.” His statement follows: “I call for a national protest against the conspiracy from within. Rally to the cause of freedom in righteous indignation, violent vocal protest, and bitter silence under the flag of Mississippi at the use of Federal troops. This today is a disgrace to the nation in dire peril, a disgrace beyond the capacity of anyone except its enemies. This is the conspiracy of the crucifixion by anti-Christ conspirators of the Supreme Court in their denial of prayer and their betrayal of a nation.” Mr. Walker reiterated statements he has made in Dallas that “thousands, possibly tens of thousands of people, are on their way to Mississippi” from all parts of the nation. He went silent when asked whether he knew if any of these were armed.
Comments