When Milan Hodža's government resigned on 23 September 1938, President Edvard Beneš appointed Syrový to head a national unity government. Syrový demurred at first, insisting he was just a soldier, not a politician, and that he lacked the qualifications and relevant experience for such an important post. Beneš told Syrový that the nation needed him. The president added that as a soldier, Syrový should not consider it an offer but an order. With some reluctance, Syrový then accepted, and also took the defence portfolio as well.