109. Memorandum From President Nixon to Heads of Departments and Agencies1 2

SUBJECT:

  • Action to Combat Terrorism

As I stated in the attached memorandum to the Secretary of State, I have today directed the establishment of a Cabinet Committee to Combat Terrorism, to be chaired by Secretary Rogers. I consider it to be of the utmost importance that we move urgently and efficiently to attack this worldwide problem.

This Committee will consider the most effective means by which to prevent terrorism here and abroad, and it will also take the lead in establishing procedures to ensure that our Government can take appropriate action in response to terrorist acts swiftly and effectively. In this regard, Secretary Rogers will be in touch with other governments and international organizations.

I expect that you will be fully responsive to the requests of the Secretary of State and assist him in every way in his efforts to coordinate government-wide actions against terrorism.

Richard Nixon
  1. Source: National Archives, RG 59, Central Files 1970-73, POL 23-8. No classification marking. See Document 110 for text of Nixon’s message to Rogers.
  2. The President directed the establishment of a Cabinet Committee to Combat Terrorism to be chaired by Secretary of State Rogers.