103.11/9–1951
Memorandum by the Ambassador in the Philippines (Cowen) to the Secretary of State 1
Subject: Lt. Col. Edward Lansdale
During the past eighteen months Lt. Col. Edward Lansdale has been in Manila attached to JUSMAG.… I learn with regret that his tour of duty in the Philippines is approaching completion. In [Page 1567] effect, Colonel Lansdale has been the right hand of the Secretary of National Defense Magsaysay and he has in a large measure been responsible for Magsaysay’s success in breaking the backbone of the Huk military forces and in dispersing the Philippine Communist organizational setup. It is inconceivable to me that the Philippine situation would be as favorable as it is without Colonel Lansdale’s superb performance. He has lived day and night with Magsaysay at very real risk to himself. He has guided and advised him. He has provided a driving power and when necessary a restraining one and furthermore he has been a better source of intelligence than all the, rest of our intelligence efforts put together.
I believe Colonel Lansdale deserves the highest possible commendation for his performance in the Philippines and I would be grateful if my appraisal could be made a part of his official military record.
- Memorandum drafted by Mr. Melby.↩