244. Memorandum From Director of Central Intelligence Hillenkoetter to the State–Army–Navy–Air Force Coordinating Committee0

SUBJECT

  • Psychological Warfare

REFERENCE

  • SWNCC 304/6 dated 30 September 19471

The Central Intelligence Agency approves SWNCC 304/6 dated 30 September 1947 subject to the following provisions: [Page 627]

1.
In view of the fact that the functioning of the National Security Council is still undetermined, and the fact that SWNCC is now being reconstituted, I recommend that the decision of determining the agency to whom the Psychological Warfare Agency shall be accountable be deferred at this time. When the question does arise, however, I recommend that study and thought be given to assigning accountability of the Psychological Warfare Agency to the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
2.
The paper envisages guidance for a Psychological Warfare Agency which will be established in time of war or threat of war as determined by the President. I am of the opinion that conditions now indicate that psychological warfare measures be instituted now as a matter of urgency. I, therefore, recommend that the Ad Hoc Subcommittee undertake a study and submit recommendations on the program “Should the U.S. at the present utilize psychological warfare measures in furtherance of the attainment of its National objectives.”

RH Hillenkoetter

Rear Admiral, USN
  1. Source: National Archives and Records Administration, RG 353, Records of Interdepartmental and Intradepartmental Committees—State Department, Records of the State–War–Navy Coordinating Committee, Box 55, File 304, 381, Psychological Warfare Pt. 1. Secret.
  2. See footnote 2, Document 242.