Introduction
President Ford points to a map of the Cambodian coastal area during a presentation by Secretary of State Henry Kissinger at a briefing on the Mayaguez situation for the Bipartisan Congressional Leadership.
President Ford points to a map of the Cambodian coastal area during a presentation by Secretary of State Henry Kissinger at a briefing on the Mayaguez situation for the Bipartisan Congressional Leadership.
Presidential leadership is often defined by decisions made during a crisis, showcasing a President’s personal character, resolve, fortitude, and strength. President Ford faced such a crisis in May 1975, during what he later called one of the “tensest moments” of his Presidency.
When Cambodian Khmer Rouge forces captured the American container ship SS Mayaguez on May 12, 1975, President Ford knew that the world was waiting to see the American response. The capture of the ship was a direct challenge to American power, especially following the Fall of Saigon and withdrawal from Vietnam the month before. President Ford’s forceful response to the Mayaguez incident and the successful rescue of the crew made an important statement that he would act decisively in American interests overseas.