In September 1973, Gen August Pinochet of Chile and his fellow junta members pioneered the art of the coup statement. The four military leaders appeared in uniform behind a solid table. Continue reading the main story “ Start Quote Chilean officers had to make sure doorways were wide to allow military leaders to walk four abreast” End Quote "The armed forces of Chile acted today solely motivated by patriotic inspiration to save the country from the chaos into which it was being plunged by the Marxist government of Salvador Allende," announced Gen Pinochet in staccato voice. "The junta will maintain judicial power… the chambers will remain in recess until further orders. That is all." His fellow junta member, Gustavo Leigh, added a few words helpful to future generals needing inspiration for their own declarations - patriotic duty, sacrifice, public support. "In order to protect the sacred interests of the homeland we found ourselves obliged to take on the sad and painful mission which we have undertaken," declared Gen Leigh. "We are not afraid. We know the enormous responsibility that will rest on our shoulders. But we are convinced, we are quite sure that the vast majority of the Chilean people is with us."
Posted on: Sat, 06 Jul 2013 14:02:59 +0000
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