262. Memorandum From Secretary of Defense Forrestal to the Executive Secretary of the National Security Council (Souers)0

SUBJECT

  • NSC 4 Series (Coordination of Foreign Information Measures)
1.
Several months have elapsed since the National Security Council approved the NSC 4 Series, dealing with foreign information activities. I believe that both the State Department and CIA have begun setting up the staff organization to carry out their respective responsibilities [Page 655] under this program. Since the Council’s action the international situation has become more critical and it is more important than ever that our foreign information activities be effectively developed and that they be coordinated with the other phases of our foreign and military policies.
2.
Therefore, I recommend that the National Security Council assure itself that the NSC 4 Series is being satisfactorily implemented and that the programs thereunder are being conceived and carried out in full accord with the intentions of the National Security Council and in effective coordination with political and military plans and activities. I request that this question be placed on the agenda of the next meeting of the National Security Council and suggest that at that time the Council direct the staff consultants to look into this problem on its behalf and submit an early report with my necessary recommendations.
James Forrestal 1
  1. Source: National Archives and Records Administration, RG 59, Records of the Department of State, Policy Planning Staff Files 1947–53: Lot 64 D 563, Pol amp; Psych Warfare 1948–50, Box 11. Top Secret. On March 30 Souers sent Forrestal’s memorandum to NSC members, noting that it would be on the agenda of the April 2 meeting. (Ibid.) See the Supplement.
  2. Printed from a copy that indicates Forrestal signed the original.