"Someone, summon Comrade Shaposhnikov!" Joseph ordered.
"Yes, Comrade Joseph." The secretary immediately went to make the call.
More than ten minutes later, Marshal Shaposhnikov, Chief of the Russian General Staff, arrived at Joseph's office. Before coming, he had already learned that General Novikov, commander of the Air Force, and General Gromov, Air Force Chief of Staff, had been stripped of their posts and exiled to Siberia. Shaposhnikov knew that Joseph was in a towering rage. It was best to go along with his wishes, or he too might be caught in the blast.
"Comrade Shaposhnikov. Novikov and Gromov performed poorly in battle, causing the Air Force to suffer grievous losses and lose air superiority. I have already dismissed them both. So, who do you think is suitable to take over as Air Force commander and Chief of Staff?" Joseph asked.
Shaposhnikov considered it, then said, "Comrade Joseph, the Air Force's situation is extremely dire. Even if others take over as commander and Chief of Staff, I fear they will be unable to reverse the current situation."
Joseph frowned. He understood what Shaposhnikov meant. Clearly, Shaposhnikov feared that after Joseph replaced the Air Force's leaders, he would replace them again because of poor performance in battle. If that happened, the Air Force would likely be thrown into panic.
"I know the Air Force's situation. With our strength, defeating the Germans is far too difficult. But I hope the Air Force can keep fighting and do everything possible to defend our airspace. They cannot fear the might of the German Air Force and turn tail and run. What use would they be then?" Joseph's face was filled with anger.
"Yes, Comrade Joseph." Shaposhnikov nodded. Since Joseph understood this as well, he had nothing to worry about.
"Comrade Joseph, what do you think