QQuestionHistory
QuestionHistory
As part of the strategy to gain more information about the Cuban missile sites, low-level flights are authorized by the President.
What does Kenny O'Donnell (Kevin Costner) tell the pilot he must not do, and why does he say this?
He must not get shot down, or at least not report that he got shot down, so that the U.S. is not forced to attack with war.
12 months agoReport content
Answer
Full Solution Locked
Sign in to view the complete step-by-step solution and unlock all study resources.
Step 1:Let me analyze the context and provide a detailed explanation:
Step 2:: Understanding the Historical Context
The scene is from the movie "Thirteen Days," which depicts the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962. During this critical period, U. S. reconnaissance pilots were conducting low-altitude surveillance missions over Cuba to gather intelligence about Soviet missile installations.
Step 3:: Kenny O'Donnell's Specific Instruction
O'Donnell tells the pilot that if he is shot at or shot down, he must NOT report it. This is a critically strategic instruction.
Step 4:: Reasoning Behind the Instruction
The reason is deeply rooted in preventing an escalation to nuclear war: - If the pilot reports being shot at or shot down, it could be interpreted as an act of war - Such a report might force President Kennedy to retaliate militarily - A military retaliation could trigger a potential nuclear exchange with the Soviet Union - The goal is to maintain diplomatic tension without triggering an immediate military confrontation
Step 5:: Strategic Implications
By instructing the pilot to suppress information about being fired upon, O'Donnell is attempting to: - Prevent automatic military escalation - Give political leaders time to negotiate - Avoid an immediate, potentially catastrophic military response
Final Answer
S. into an immediate military confrontation that might lead to nuclear war.
Need Help with Homework?
Stuck on a difficult problem? We've got you covered:
- Post your question or upload an image
- Get instant step-by-step solutions
- Learn from our AI and community of students