David M. Shoup

Date of Birth: December 30, 1904

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Date of Death: January 13, 1983

Biography

David M. Shoup was a highly decorated United States Marine Corps General who served as the 22nd Commandant of the Marine Corps. Born in Battle Ground, Indiana, Shoup’s military career spanned three decades and included notable service during World War II and the Korean War. He is perhaps best known for his leadership during the Battle of Tarawa, for which he was awarded the Medal of Honor. Shoup’s tenure as Commandant was marked by his outspoken views on military policy and his advocacy for the Marine Corps’ role within the U.S. military framework. He retired from active duty in 1963 and later became a vocal critic of American involvement in the Vietnam War.

5 Interesting Facts about David M. Shoup

1. David M. Shoup was awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroism during the Battle of Tarawa in World War II.

2. He served as the Commandant of the Marine Corps from 1959 to 1963.

3. Shoup was a vocal critic of the Vietnam War, which was unusual for a high-ranking military officer of his era.

4. Before joining the Marine Corps, Shoup attended DePauw University on a football scholarship.

5. He played a key role in modernizing the Marine Corps during his tenure as Commandant.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from David M. Shoup

1. “To lack intelligence is to be in the ring blindfolded.”

2. “The American people have been led to believe that the United States is in mortal danger and that our survival as a nation depends upon military operations in the jungles of Southeast Asia.”

3. “War is a dirty, stinking, rotten business.”

4. “We must remember that the East is not a military problem alone; it is a military, economic, political, and social problem.”

5. “I believe that the doctrine of preemptive war is both morally and strategically flawed.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

David M. Shoup’s net worth is not widely documented, as his career was primarily in public service and the military, where financial gain is not a primary focus.