The Frozen Hours: A Novel of the Korean War

by Jeff Shaara

— Within twenty-four hours, the reporters had made the best use of the wire services, telephone, and any other communication line that would carry their stories. Very soon after, the word filtered back to Smith’s headquarters, various responses coming to him from the quote now attributed to him, a ringing cry that began to appear in headlines in every newspaper that carried the story. For Smith, the twist to his words was amusing, and unlike so many misquotes attributed to military commanders, he saw this one as positive. The language now was a bit raw for his taste, but the sentiment conveyed his message perfectly, a message that he intended more for his own men. “Retreat, hell. We’re just attacking in another direction.