31. Memorandum Prepared in the Department of State1

Summary of Major Improvements in State Department Administrative Operations January 20–July 20, 1961

(Source: Memorandum of July 20 from A—Mr. Crockett to O—Mr. Jones)2

1.
Internal Organization Changes
a.
Development of integrated regional approach to aid programs through new Agency for International Development (AID).
b.
Enlargement of Disarmament Administration.
c.
Establishment of Peace Corps.
d.
Grouping of bureaus with politico-military-intelligence functions under Deputy Under Secretary for Political Affairs for day-to-day operations.
e.
Elevation of head of cultural affairs programs to Assistant Secretary rank.
f.
New emphasis in intelligence operations on studies of current and emerging problems.
g.
Creation of Operations Center for emergency, inter-departmental action.
h.
Strengthening long-range planning by consolidating the positions of Counselor and Chairman of the Policy Planning Council.
i.
Expansion of Protocol Office activities.
j.
Assignment to Director General of the Foreign Service of responsibility for adequate support for ambassadors.
k.
Increase in Department support for the Export Expansion Program.
l.
Setting up of an Office of Management to focus responsibility on management problems.
m.
Abolishment of 109 inter-and intra departmental committees.
n.
Improvement of internal communications through publication of the Department of State News Letter.
o.
Beginning study on use of automation to expedite Departmental operations of various kinds.
2.
Overseas Changes
a.
Strengthening of concept of unified U.S. foreign affairs activities abroad under guidance of Ambassador.
b.
Combining of previously separate post administrative services operations.

  1. Source: National Archives and Records Administration, RG 59, Central Files 1960–63, 110.10/7–2061. No classification marking. The memorandum does not indicate a date or drafting office; it was presumably prepared in the Bureau of Administration.
  2. Not found in Department of State files.