The South Korean capital of Seoul was a major battleground during the Korean War with the North taking it twice and the U.S and U.N. forces retaking the city each time. The fourth battle of Seoul, planned by U.S. Eighth Army Commander Matthew Ridgeway was intended to destroy as much of the North’s military forces around Seoul and to also move the U.N. troops back to the 38th parallel. The operation began in March 1951 and by mid-month, the North’s forces had been forced to withdraw from Seoul and the city was retaken by the U.S. Military. This would be the last time the capital would change hands. Meanwhile, controversy over policy issues regarding the conduct and scope of the war was building between General MacArthur, the Supreme Commander in Korea, and President Truman. On April 11, 1951, Truman relieved MacArthur with General Matthew Ridgeway elevated to the supreme commander’s post in Korea.