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It was 4:43 p.m. The congressional leaders had left. In the President's office, amid the collection of empty chairs, Ike's aides, struck with the somberness that envelops decisions of moment, stood silent.
The President of the U.S. turned to General Twining. "All right," said he. "We'll send 'em in. Nate, put it into operation."
The Symbol. The next job was to make his decision known to the nation. Next morning, as U.S. marines were landing on the beaches of Lebanon, Ike authorized Press Secretary James Hagerty to tell newsmen, followed this up with a message to Congress and a filmed address that was telecast and broadcast across the country. "It is recognized that the step now being taken may have serious consequences," he told Congress bluntly. "I have, however, come to the considered and sober conclusion that despite the risks involved this action is required to support the principles of justice and international law upon which peace and a stable international order depend."
At week's end Ike broadcast one more message, this time to the U.S. forces staked down at Lebanon:
"This is the President . . . You are in Lebanon because the U.S. has responded to an urgent request from Lebanon . . . a free nation . . . While you are in Lebanon, each of you is a personal representative of the U.S.—a symbol of the national aspirations for freedom for all people ... It will be a trying time for all of you. I know that. But I also know that you are American servicemen, trained to do your duty to your country. Through me, our people here at home thank you. God bless you all!"