466. Memorandum for the Record1
Gordon Gray gave me several comments concerning Secretary Herter’s memorandum of April 27th on disarmament policy review, indicating that they had been discussed with Dr. Killian, who seemed to be at least in general agreement with them:
There is a question of bringing into the study personnel outside the established governmental departments. Dr. Killian thinks this is very much needed: it is doubtful that State has been thinking in these terms.
The terms of reference seem rather long and comprehensive. Questions No. 2 and 5 in particular seem to be rather far-reaching and not susceptible of definite treatment.
If such a study is to be conducted with any great promise of success, it should have the President’s support and commitment. In addition, there would be no point in going into it unless Defense, not only at top level but at military level, were quite serious about it.
It is worth considering whether this should not be initiated with an NSC action. Perhaps the terms of reference should bear the stamp of the NSC. If this were done, a NSC meeting with the JCS and the Service Secretaries present might be a desirable way to start the project off.
Brigadier General, USA
- Source: Gray’s comments on Department of State proposal for disarmament policy review. Secret. 1 p. Eisenhower Library, White House Office Files, Records of the Office of the Staff Secretary, Disarmament.↩