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Ford Newsletter, July-Sept. 1950
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Gerald R. Ford Congressional Papers
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This document scanned from Box D1 of the Gerald R. Ford Congressional Papers at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
July 5, 1950
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
This past week was one of extreme contrasts in Washington. The big news, the
center stage was of course occupied by the activity resulting from the invasion of
South Korea by the Communist forces from the north. At the same time the City of
Washington was crowded to the stuffing point with Boy Scouts from all over the
United States who were sightseeing on their way to the Jamboree at Valley Forge. In
between the pleasant opportunity to see Boy Scouts from home and the unpleasant
realization that world peace is not a fact, we in the House had our noses to the
grindstone considering the proposed tax revision legislation.
******
At the time this column is written in the nation's capitol no one knows precisely
the facts on what the future may hold in our struggle with communism forces in the
Pacific area. This one point is clear, however - there is a united, non-partisan
support for firmness in preventing further totalitarian aggression. All of us may
have our own ideas concerning the inadequacy or ineffectiveness of the State Depart-
ment's past policies of vacillation and misdirection in China and elsewhere in the
Pacific, but now that the chips are down "together we stand". I assure you the
President has a cooperative Congress on both sides of the aisle in this hour of crisis
******
One word of caution, it's no time for careless war hysteria. Our government's
officials, both legislative and executive, are carrying out policies which strive
for the preservation of peace rather than the incitement of war. The proper appeals
were made to the United Nations and except for Russia's boycott and Yugoslavia's
reaction, the United States received the necessary support from our allies to auth-
orize the President's subsequent action. Despite Representative Marcantonio's state-
ments on the floor of the House just before we approved an extension of the Draft
Act accusing the United States of capitalistic aggression, our policy in the Far East
GERALD FORD
is definitely for the protection of freedom for nations and people throughout the
world.
For the past two years members of Congress and the public have anxiously await-
ed the bill for a cut in wartime imposed excise taxes, The House finally approved
such a bill. With the cuts there are some tax increases and as a result the net
loss of federal revenue will be negligible. It would have been far better to remove
the excise taxes and cut governmental expenses but the President and his political
party leaders would not follow this procedure. The Republicans as a whole did their
best but when the opposition has a 90 vote majority in the House at times there
isn't too much that can be done.
******
The Grand Valley Council of Boy Scouts had 110 scouts and scouters in Washing-
ton for two days. They really saw the Capitol in a hurry but at that age kids can
cover more ground than their elders. The boys were in the House gallery when we
voted on the one year Draft Extension bill. A pretty exciting moment for all con-
cerned.
******
GUESTS: John V. Menhart of Rockford; Joe Weiner and C. J. Brooks of Grand
Rapids; T. J. Rynbrandt of Byron Center; and Lester N, Woltman of Holland.
******
July 12, 1950
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
On the Friday before the Fourth of July the House of Representatives finished
up practically all of the "must" legislation for the year. The Senate is still
behind schedule so the Democrat and Republican leaders in the House agreed to a
10 day recess. This gave the Fords a chance to move the family home. Betty and
Mike will stay in Michigan but I'll be back in Washington by July 10th for on that
date the House votes on the controversial Reorganization Plan 27.
******
Reorganization Plan 27 is another attempt by the President to set up Federal
Security Administrator Oscar Ewing as the head of a Department of Health, Education
and Security. Guess you all know that Mr. Ewing has been the President's staunchest
advocate for socialized medicine. Leaving aside Mr. Ewing's personal interest in
socialized medicine, Reorganization Plan 27 is not in accord with the Hoover Com-
mission Recommendations. Spokesmen for the non-partisan Citizens Committee for the
Hoover Commission in testifying before the House legislative committee urged the
rejection of Plan 27. Actually the record shows there is a wide variance between
the Hoover Commission proposals and President's Plan 27 and consequently it should
be defeated.
******
In many respects it was a pretty grim 4th of July but in our District a number
of committees and individual groups appropriately celebrated the birthday of the
adoption of the Declaration of Independence. On the morning of the 4th I attended
the excellent neighborhood ceremonies for the kids and grown-ups sponsored by the
Calvin-Giddings Patriotic Association. About 500 kids with flag covered bicyles
put on a swell parade. All told about 2000 folks participated and it shows what
can and should be done.
******
i LIBRAR DERALD
The evening of the 4th the Willard G. Leenhouts Post of the American Legion
and the Holland Chamber of Commerce put on a mighty fine program with about 5000
folks taking in the ceremonies at the Post's clubhouse.
******
On the Korean situation a few words of encouragement- - - -. The daily head-
lines and radio reports don't look too good but I feel confident the situation
is improving steadily. We mustn't forget it takes a few days to move personnel,
ships and equipment across an ocean.
******
Visitors in Washington last week: Mr. and Mrs, F. Roland Allaben and children,
Mr. and Mr. Al Imperi, and Mr, and Mrs. Kenneth Hubbell all of Grand Rapids.
******
July 20, 1950
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
Everyone in the United States has his mind centered on the military developments
in Korea. The news to date is grim and discouraging. Most military experts advise
that the situation is to be worse before it becomes better. This may even mean the
loss of Korea entirely just as we lost China to the Communists. This is understand-
able for several reasons. In the first place, it takes time to move ground troops
and supplies from our advance bases in the Pacific and from our military installations
in this country. Second, we have found that our military leaders underestimated the
role of armored tanks in present day warfare and overestimated the effectiveness of
air power. It will take time to regroup and reallocate our forces to be used in Korea.
Is the struggle in Korea a localized situation or in reality the first step to-
ward a global war? Initially it was nearly the unanimous opinion in Washington that
the aggression by the Communist forces of North Korea was a local action similar to
the Red China aggressions in the last four years. However, because of the recent
S ccesses by the Communists in Korea there is a growing feeling that Stalin may now
be encouraged to try further attacks elsewhere throughout the world. If the Kremlin
does make other military moves, thinking the United States and its allies are weak,
then World War III is definitely on its way.
Is the United States and its European allies secure from Russian aggression on
the continent? Russian forces, if an attack were made on France, the Netherlands or
other countries in Western Europe, would meet stiffer resistance than that offered by
the South Koreans. Stalin and his Communist armies would make advances and possibly
overrun parts of Europe but any such attack would be the go-ahead for relentless air
attacks with all weapons against Russia itself. The United States through the Berlin
airlift met one Soviet challenge in Europe and I believe we should and would meet any
other thrust by the necessary means and methods.
******
BERALD R. FORD
As the cold war between Communism and Democracy gets warmer there is even a
greater need for an alert calmness on the part of our citizens. At the moment the
United States is paying heavily for the terrible diplomatic blunders by the State
Department under Secretaty Acheson and his predecessors, Unfortunately the President
up until June 26th apparently believed in the erroneous and unsound theories of the
Department of State. Since June 26th the military leaders have been assigned the
salvage job in the Far East resulting from the diplomatic bungling of the Administra-
tion's Pacific theatre foreign policy. General McArthur will do the job, but you can't
expect him to overcome overnight the immense handicaps the State Department handed him
four weeks ago. The General said months ago that Formosa had to be defended; Pres-
ident Truman and Acheson said NO. Now, when time and equipment are short, General
McArthur is ordered to protect Formosa as well as Korea. As a good soldier he will
do his best, but remember this, five years of grievous errors aren't redeemed in a
matter of weeks. Some contend we shouldn't spend time pointing out the responsibility
for the disasters of the past. Good sense, however, demands that we expose our weak
links and express our faith in those who now have the tremendous responsibility of
bringing order out of chaos.
******
VISITORS: Mr. and Mrs. Henry Den Braber and daughter Joan, Mr. and Mrs. John R..
Van Amdel, and Mr. and Mrs. Merle Hardaker, all of Grand Rapids; Mr. and Mrs. Wendell
Miles of Holland; Mr. and Mrs. E. M. Weston of Sparta; and Henry T. Parker of Grand
Haven.
******
FORD i LIDRAR GERALD
July 27, 1950
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
With Betty and Mike in Grand Rapids and the rest of the family in Washington,
my routine consists of working, eating and sleeping. Perhaps it's well the family is
home for the international situation has stepped up the legislative tempo. Twelve
hours a day in the office is the regular schedule. The one diversion is a chance to
hear the Marine and Navy band concerts which are regularly given on the Capitol steps
every evening. It's mighty stimulating to linger for a while on my nightly walk to
our apartment in order to join the thousands who listen to these fine musical organi-
zations.
******
When our historians at some future date analyze the pros and cons of American
diplomacy for the last 5 years in China and the Far East, the critics might compare
the recommendations of Republican Representative Walter Judd with the policies of
Secretary Acheson, Owen Lattimore and others. Congressman Judd is a medical mission--
ary who spent most of his life in China and consequently knows the intricate problems
first hand. Because of modesty he won't talk about it but he in the 1930's was re-
moving from Chinese soldiers Japanese bullets made from American scrap metal. Wal-
ter Judd, a realistic and down to earth expert on Pacific problems, has constantly
pointed out to the Administration theorists that the Communist forces in China were
not "simple agrarians" and that the seizure of the Chinese mainland was a well plan-
ned Soviet program for the last 25 years. It is sound to write that Representative
Judd has been 100% right and our State Department practically 100% wrong in China.
What worries me is the possibility that the President, after we win in Korea, will
still leave our Pacific diplomacy in the same discredited hands. Wouldn't it be more
sensible to put a man like Walter Judd in charge of Far Eastern policy.
******
GERALD FORD
Some sad -facts developed a week or so ago while the House was considering amend-
ments to the Export-Import Bank legislation to permit 250 million in foreign loans
for the President's Point IV program. This is a sizeable amount of taxpayers' money
and you would imagine the proposal would be thoroughly scrutinized by a Congression-
al committee before approval. Actually the opposite took place. For example, a year
ago Committee hearings on the bill were held a couple of hours each day for only 5
days. Only 5 witnesses, all favorable to the legislation, appeared. Yet today,
when there is a changed international situation, the Administration forces the bill
through the House. To say the least, new and more extensive hearings should have
been held to bring the matter up to date. Things have changed a bit since August,
1949. Frankly, I wouldn't and didn't vote for legislation involving such an import-
ant issue which was so poorly considered.
In contrast, let's analyze the conscientious consideration given the recent tax
bill approved by the House. This is the way legislation should be examined and pre-
pared. The Committee on Ways and Means met five times a week, morning and afternoon
for over three months. In addition, the Committee staff worked an estimated 15,000
hours preparing the legislation for the Committee and the House as a whole. Quite
a difference between the time and effort by the Committee on the tax revision bill
and the 250 million Point IV legislation. A Congressman and the public could have
faith in one bat considerable doubt about the other.
August 3, 1950
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
There is no dispute in Congress about increasing our military appropriations.
The President has requested 10 billion dollars immediately for the Army, Navy and
Air Force and you can rest assured it will be available pronto. One disturbing
possibility, however, is the danger that even though Congress appropiates the money
and directs the executive branch of the government to go ahead, no action will take
place.
Here are some facts to show what I mean. The 80th so-called do-nothing Con-
gress added over 800 million to the Air Force appropiation in order to establish
a 70 group Air Force! The President and his advisors said 48 groups were sufficent
and he impounded and never spent over 700 million for the bigger Air Force. Later
Secretary of Defense Johnson ruled that the nation's air power was still too large
and withheld 243,000,000 more of Air Force funds. In other words, the Administra-
tion within the past several years refused to spend nearly a billion dollars for
national defense which Congress thought was necessary for the strengthening of the
Air Force.
That isn't all. Secretary Johnson also withheld 435 million in other military
funds despite a clear directive from the Congress that the money should be spent
for our national security. Within the last couple of weeks Secretary Johnson was
hauled before several Congressional committees to explain his disregard for such
Congressional directives. Members of the committees tell me Mr. Johnson was meek
as a mouse, not at all like the blustering dictator of a year ago when he said,
"if any enemy attacks at 4:00 P.M. we will strike back at 5:00."
******
Here's another reason why there is much lack of faith in some of our adminis-
trators. The Congress in the fall of 1949 authorized sizeable United States funds
for the military assistance of our allies. Under this legislation the South Korean
Republic was promised over 10 million in military equipment.
FORD & LIBRARY GERALD
8-3-50
On June 27, 1950, General Lemnitzer informed the Committee on Foreign Affairs that
the South Koreans had received only $200 worth of wire in the 8 months the law has
been on the statute books. No aircraft, no tanks, just $200 worth of useless wire.
This proves one point! It takes more than laws to do the job. What we needed then
and now is some administrators in our civilian agencies who will get some action.
******
The President has properly warned us all that hoarding, "panic buying" and "pro-
fiteering" will severely hurt our mobilization effort. Any individual or any cor-
poration taking advantage of the present crisis is mighty selfish and deserves no
sympathy. Obviously we want no "5 percenters" and their sidekicks like General
Vaughn. There is plenty of food and clothing in the U.S. if we don't go hogwild.
Don't add to our problems by creating artificial shortages. It seems to me that the
Michigan State Liquor Commission members acted unwisely in purchasing 86,000 extra
cases of liquor because of a possible shortage at a later date. A government agen-
cy should be an example to follow not to condemn. Can we honestly expect patriotic
citizens to refrain from purchasing sugar, coffee, etc. when at the same time a
state agency purchases more than it needs for normal operations?
******
The Congress will give the Executive branch of the government all the laws
needed to keep our economy in order. In many respects I think we should go further
than the President. The laws should be on the statute books in case the situation
becomes worse. Let's be prepared both militarily and domestically. You can't stop
Communism by half-way measures. Strong action now may inconvenience us a bit and
hurt our pocketbooks taxwise but at the same time we may save American lives later
on.
Visitors: Ken Wedgwood of Grandville; David K. Waer and Mr. and Mrs. Leslie R.
Calkins of Grand Rapids.
FORD & LIBRARY GERALD
August 10, 1950
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
There is enough Washington information this week to make ten news letters
rather than one. Honestly, se much is happening in the Capitol I wish it were
possible to make in person reports on a daily basis. However, as your Representa-
tive, I can't be on the job in Washington and at the same time be at home for
speeches and meetings. The Congress each day is considering vitally important leg-
islation and my conscience won't permit me to be away from the job. Two years ago
I promised to WORK FOR YOU. It is my intention to abide by that promise.
The Congress appears to be well ahead of the President on the need for im-
mediate economic controls. The situation is peculiar to say the least. Several
weeks ago Mr. Truman requested legislation which would give him only the authority
to allocate basic materials and control credit. Because of tremendous price in-
creases and unwise panic buying, we in the House believe such authority is insuf-
ficient. The House is giving the President discretionary or standby authority to
invoke price and wage controls. I would prefer an immediate "freeze" and roll
backs. This legislation must also include the power to impose taxes on excess pro-
fits that will probably prevent war profiteering.
There is a strong feeling among Congressmen that some authority in the situa-
tion should be retained by the House and Senate. The emergency legislation will
undoubtedly provide that Mr. Truman can impose all controls if and when he deems it
necessary. However, in case the President is slow in acting, Congress should have
the authority to force the Administration to invoke "down the line" price and wage
controls. It is eaaential that such controls go hand in hand in this emergency. At
the same time the House and Senate should retain the authority to remove such con-
trols if and when the crisis has passed. We don't want our economy indefinitely
hamstrung by controls as has happened in England and France. That would be disast-
rous particularly with some of the bureaucrats and state-planners at the helm. Con-
sequently, I am urging that Congress retain the right of Presidential veto. Such
a
provision will pretect the American people from unlimited control in the hands of
the Executive Branch of the federal government.
8.10.50
Last week the House had several guests from foreign lands. The Prime Minister
of Australia made an impressive address in which he reaffirmed his country's support
for U. S. and U. N. action in Korea. As you know, Australia is one of the nations
that is already helping and according to Prime Minister Menzies additional forces
will be on their way shortly.
The day before the House heard a speech by Delegate Kitamura of the Japanese
Diet. Mr. Kitamura spoke in his native tongue and after each sentence an interpre-
ter gave us in English what had been said in Japanese. During Mr. Kitamura's talk
I couldn't help but recall the two years I spent on an aircraft carrier in the Paci-
fic where we naturally believed all Japs were our mortal enemies. They certainly
were in those days. I only hope and trust that the words of Japanese friendship now
pronounced by Mr. Kitamura are from the heart. Japan could redeem in part her sins
of past years by wholeheartedly supporting the U. S. in this time of crisis.
Recently it was my privilege to hear in a small and confidential meeting one of
the foremost American authorities on Communism both here and abroad. He gave us
solid facts and figures which prove beyond any doubt that the Korean invasion is but
one of the many aims of Stalin and his satellites. The Communists want the destruc-
tion of capitalism and to achieve that end they will fight us on the battlefield and
at the same time will attempt to destroy the strength of the U. S. by boring from
within. In this speaker's estimation there is altogether too much infiltration by
Communist sympathizers in government positions of responsibility. I repeat the man
is a well-known authority on the subject, not a headline hunter. Some of our lead-
ers in the Executive Branch of the government should take heed instead of whitewash-
ing all attempts to expose those who would destroy us from within.
Here's something that might interest you. Moscow spends more money each year
in the United States for our nation's destruction than is spent every four years by
the Democrats and Republicans combined.
8.10.50
Visitors - Phil Osterhouse and June Shoup, both of Grand Rapids, stopped in
our office this past week, as did Robert Linn of Holland. We understand that Mary
Ann Hynes and Mary Joseph of Grand Rapids were in Washington also, but we didn't
happen to see them.
GENALD R. FORD
August 17, 1950
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD JR.
The House of Representatives after several days of disturbing indecision and
lack of Administration leadership finally approved a presentable bill for the sta-
bilization of our domestic economy. The Senate will act promptly which means the
President will have the necessary tools to bring a semblance of economic balance out
of the chaotic and artificial dislecations of the past few weeks.
*
"Old Man" Yost, that great coach of former days at the University, used to in-
struct the centers on his football team, "Not too high, not too low, not too fast,
not too slow." The Defense Production Act of 1950 as approved by the House follows
that pattern. It gives the President more authority to control prices, wages, etc.
than he wanted; yet the House restricted the power of the bureaucrats. The state-
planners didn't get what they wanted and the House slapped down those who said no
controls are needed. The House bill is a good compromise if administered fairly.
******
This last week I introduced an important bill to help those in the Armed Ser-
vices cast their vote in the coming fall elections. Our citizens in uniform who are
defending freedom and liberty on the battlefields should be given every assistance so
their absentee voter ballots will be counted with the rest. Such legislation was
enacted in World War II and I'm certain the Congress will do the same again. The
48 state legislatures may have to help locally but there should be no hesitancy on
such an issue.
******
As some of you know, I had to cancel a number of speaking engagements in Kent
and Ottawa Counties which had been scheduled several months before the Korean crisis.
Everyone seemed to understand that it was more important for their Representative to
be on the job in Washington. However, one good friend wondered why the vote of one
Congressman made any difference when most roll call votes indicated that emergency
legislation was being approved by overwhelming majorities.
It is true that on a final vote there is near unanimity but when a bill is being
considered for amendment on the floor there are numerous close votes on specific
a
mendments where the absence of one member would make quite a difference.
GERALD FORD LIBRARY
In the last few weeks several important amendments have been decided by one or two
votes. Because of this situation it is most unwise for any member of Congress to
be away from Washington while the House and Senate are in session.
A colleague of mine received the following letter which well expresses the sen-
timents of many.
"Dear Congressman:
"The ghost of Neville Chamberlain is haunting this country today, and if
he were to stand alongside Dean Acheson you'd never be able to tell which twin had
the Toni.
"The proposal to push Dwight Eisenhower for Secretary of Defense sounds
like a good ene. Bernard Baruch might do as Secretary of State. But if you have
somebody else in mind, that's okay, too. Do what you can for him, please. Any--
body would be an improvement.
"Acheson has dined and wined our enemies, waltzed them intimately and
drooled sweet nothings down their necks while they pick his pockets. Helluva way
to run a community dance.
"Imagine the result, sir, if fight manager Jake Mintz were to bind Ez-
zard Charles' right arm behind his back, tie a pillow to Ezzard's left hand, then
blubber: 'We can lick hell outa Joe Louis any time.' Johnson has done relatively
the same thing with regard to our armed forces. Why?
"Economy, you say? Whose economy? The Taxpayer's? We haven't noticed.
And now look what's happening.
"You are an advocate of air power, I believe. But while your fly boys
were looking up, the opposition bunted one along the ground. Air power is fine as
long as it includes support of troops. And it still takes troops to win a war and
ships to carry them.
"If you were to ignite all your letters from irate constituents, you'd
probably start a bonfire big enough to smoke Dean Acheson and Louis Johnson out of
Washington. For your convience, a match is enclosed.
Respectfully,
J.E.H."
One of the aircraft carriers the Navy is taking out of mothballs is the ship
your Congressman served on for nearly two years in World War II. Like all sailors,
I'm quite sentimental about my ship and the job the crew did in helping to whip the
Japs. Secretary Johnson's meat axe economy on the Navy and Marines particulary nev-
er did make sense. Nor did I approve of the President's dut of the Air Force from
70 to 48 air groups. In this critical period the United States needs a balanced
military force.
******
Visitors: Joseph R. Erhardt and family, Leone B. Obiedzinski and R. L. McKay,
all of Grand Rapids.
August 24, 1950
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD JR.
A good many citizens are sincerely disturbed, and I think rightfully so, about
the Administration's lack of any real action against Communist sympathizers in the
United States. Ever since the end of World War II the President has advised that
the government was "watching" communist agents here at home. Unfortunately it ap-
pears too many government officials "watched" too long without taking action. The
various departments "watched" while Harry Gold and others conspired with Klaus Fuchs
while that "gang" stole and carried off vital secrets of the atomic bomb from the
Los Alamos project. This is only one of many cases where the Executive branch of the
government has been too late with too little action in our struggle with the Soviets
at home and abroad.
My mail indicates the American people want some real action against the subver--
sive elements in this country. In fact, every Congressman is being urged to approve
legislation that will tighten up our internal security. This public demand is shar-
pening the fight in Congress between those who want the Mundt-Nixon bill, which will
do the job, and those who favor half-way proposals which are no good at all. From
all appearances the Mundt-Nixon bill or something quite similar to it will be passed
by the Congress and presented to the President for his signature. So far the legis-
lative substitutes offered by the President to deal with subversive elements have
been pretty wishy-washy. We need strong laws and determined prosecution against
Communists within this country if we are to rid the U.S. of the like of Alger Hiss.
Let me illustrate how some of the left wingers in Congress have run to cover
in recent weeks. In 1948 and 1949 the Committee on Un-American Activities was the
whipping post for the so-called liberals. The left wingers refused to vote funds for
the committee's investigations even though that committee uncovered the Alger Hiss
mess. In the last two years the Loft wing liberals refused to condemn committee wit-
nesses who played the "communist party line". All of a sudden this group of Adminis-
tration supporters has awakened. The other day the House of Representatives cited
for contempt over 50 witnesses whose records mark them as strong Soviet sympathizers.
GERALITY VORD LIBRARY
Only Representative Marcantonio voted against the contempt citations. The rest of
the old gang scrambled for safety knowing full well the American people are fed up
with the Administration's policy of coddling communist sympathizers. Heretofore this
same bunch of Congressmen were always yelling "red herring". Thank goodness the
Republicans never played "footsie" with Joe Stalin and his followers in the United
States.
There's an increasing demand from Congress, Democrats and Republicans alike,
for the resignation or dismissal of Secretary of State Acheson and Secretary of De-
fense Johnson. Despite this pressure from the people and their representatives, Mr.
Truman says the two will stay. The arguments for the ouster of Acheson and Johnson
are sound. In the first place, right or wrong, the public has lost confidence in
both cabinet officers. If our citizens have no faith in the policies of Acheson and
Johnson, how can we expect the necessary public support for the war effort? A num-
ber of critics contend the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Defense are in-
competent, that their mistakes caused the U. S. to lose the peace and prevented us
from being prepared for the present emergency. Some good Americans will dispute that
point of view. However, in the light of recent events it seems that Acheson and
Johnson should resign.
VISITORS: Mr. and Mrs. Jack Westveer, the Misses Nell Westveer, Jeanne Ann Westveer
and Harriet Westveer, Miss Jacqueline Kuyper, Miss Helen L. Krapf, Mrs. Vercel Bovee,
Miss Rose Perrin, Mr. and Mrs. Everd C. Dudley and children Joan and Gorden, and Mr.
Harold B. Bostwick.
******
CENALE FORD VIBRARY
August 31, 1950
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
The American people in this critical hour aren't too interested in the political
fortunes of any one political party or any candidate. I'm certain the G.I. in Korea
doesn't much care about vote getting shenanigans. Nor does the housewife who has
trouble making the weekly pay check stretch to meet the family needs. Likewise in
Congress most members are doing their best to expedite "total mobilization". However,
on August 15th in the Senate, Senator Neely of West Virginia, a Democrat, indicated
his feelings on this matter.
Members of the Senate were trying to reach an agreement for a vote on Friday,
August 18th on the all important Defense Production Act of 1950. Senator Neely object-
ed. He explained that the annual convention of Young Democratic Clubs of West Vir-
ginia was to be held in Charleston on that Friday and Senator Sparkman of Alabama was
to be the speaker.
Here's what Senator Neely said on the floor of the Senate -
"I do not wish to delay action. But in my opinion, except the saving of immortal
souls, the most important thing this side of the grave to the people of the world is
the success of the Democratic Party in the approaching election. The success of the
Democratic Party in the Nation is largely dependent upon its success in West Virginia.
The Democratic success in West Virginia is largely dependent upon the speech which
the Senator from Alabama has promised to deliver in Huntington next Friday."
Sure, there was only a four day delay in the handling of this important legisla-
tion but in my humble estimation that is four days too long. It is regrettable that
the Senator from West Virginia, for the sake of politics, would request such a delay
on this important matter.
******
GERALD FORD LIBRAR.
This week the Committee on Agriculture came up with a bill to provide three new
assistants for Secretary Brannan. Mr. Brannan in a letter to the Committee said
because of his heavy work load he couldn't handle the job unless Congress gave him
the extra assistants. The Secretary wanted to hire two men at salaries of 15 thou-
sand a year apiece and the third at a salary of $14,000 annually. What's that old
gag about pulling yourself up by your bootstraps.
This proposal didn't make sense particularly when Mr. Brannan spends a good bit
of his time away from his Washington office making "political speeches". The House
cut-off two of the three jobs but even then I voted against the proposal. During
World War II the job was done by the then Secretary of Agriculture without any extra
high priced help. Seems to me Mr. Brannan could do the same, particularly if he
would get off the political speech-making circuit and tend to business in Washington
One of the biggest problems still facing this Congress in mobilizing against
Stalinism is how to pay for the vast new military appropriations for our national
security. A new tax law will be enacted shortly but even the contemplated revenues
in this proposal will be inadequate to put the U.S. on a "pay-as-you-go" basis.
Corporation tax rates must be increased substantially and this includes an excess
profits tax. Individual tax rates will also be bumped up and in addition tax loop-
holes must be closed to catch up with "profiteering" at public expense. The burdens
must be across the board. We can't expect the G.I. to do his part on the battlefields
in this struggle with Communist aggression if civilians aren't carrying their full
burden.
VISITORS - Mr. & Mrs. Peter Kosten and son of Grand Rapids; Mr. & Mrs. Guy
Harris of Cedar Springs.
September 7, 1950
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD JR.
Several weeks ago the Congress put its final stamp of approval on the new Social
Security legislation. My correspondence indicates there is widespread interest in
the new provisions in the law. Consequently, Your Washington Review this week is
devoted to a summary of the changes.
The revised law adds approximately 10 million persons to the 35 million previou-
ly covered by Social Security. For the first time the self-employed, such as the
owner of the corner grocery store or a gas station proprietor, will make contributions
and receive benefits. However, certain professional people are excluded from this
provision. Those excluded are lawyers, doctors, dentists, accountants, engineers
and architects. Benefits are increased, as well as coverage. Increases in benefits
will average about 771/2 per cent. Some of the low benefits were boosted nearly 100
per cent.
******
The higher benefits begin with checks to be mailed on or about October 1st. The
increases come automatically to those who have been receiving benefits previously.
If there is no increase in the monthly check which you receive for the month of
September, contact the local office in order to straighten out the matter.
Here's an important feature of the new law. Beneficiaries will be able to earn
up to $50 monthly in covered employment and still receive payments under Social
Security. Under the old law there was a monthly earning limitation of $15 which
kept a number of older folks from supplementing their Social Security benefits. This
was particularly harmful to those who despite advanced age could still put in a good
day's work.
******
FORD & LIBRARY CERALD
Eligibility requirements are eased, In other words, it will take a shorter time,
to qualify for benefits. Some who were disqualified under the old law because they
hadn't worked in covered employment for a sufficient number of quarters can now re-
ceive benefits. However, those folks must apply at the local office in order to
become eligible. This is important. If you didn't get benefits before and there is
any possibility that you might be eligible under the new law, by all means check with
the local federal security agency officials,
Many self-employed people will wonder how they are to pay their tax so they in
turn can receive benefits. Here's the answer The owner of a local grocery store
will pay his social security tax for himself when he files his federal income tax
return for 1951. The social security tax on his self-employment income will be 2½%
The veteran of World War II gets automatic wage credits of $160 per month for
time on active service. This means the G.I. who served 24 months in the Army can
add to his previous or subsequent social security credit 24 months of $160 per month
wage credits. This is an important provision for the veteran. At the same time it
is fair and equitable to all.
One of the new groups covered by the changes in the law is agricultural workers.
Those working regularly on farms and also those processing farm products off the
farm come within the Act. To qualify as a regularly employed farm worker the person
must work steadily for one employer for three months before coverage starts, then
continue to work for that employer for 60 full days and receive cash wages of at
least $50 for each quarter-year.
You can readily see the new law is quite different from the old Act. If you
have any doubts as to your status better stop down to the local Social Security
Administration office.
VISITORS: Adam Koniezny, Mr. & Mrs. H. B. Shaine, Mr. & Mrs. W. J. Hudson, Mr.
& Mrs. Walter J. Gasilo, Mr. & Mrs. Robert Muller and family and John Boyd, all of
Grand Rapids.
******
September 14, 1950
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
Several weeks ago I introduced a bill to require the immediate deportation of
all aliens who refuse to register and serve under the Selective Service Act. At
the present time there is an unfortunate quirk in the law which permits an alien to
avoid the draft although by refusing to serve any alien loses the right of citizen-
ship.
Those of us who are pressing for action on this bill were assured by the Chairman
of the House Committee on Armed Services that hearings would be held and action taken.
Several days ago when certain changes were made in the Selective Service Act to set
up a schedule for the drafting of doctors and dentists I urged that an alien deport-
ation provision be included similar to my bill. Unfortunately the proposed amendment
to the committee bill was disallowed on a parliamentary technicality. Nevertheless
we were promised that my bill and several others similar to it would be considered
shortly by the Committee on Armed Services. Aliens who come to the United States
for a new start in life must expect to serve in our Armed Forces. If not they should
be deported pronto.
This fall during the political campaign the American public are to hear a lot
of accusations pro and con on whether or not a vote against a bill for "economic aid"
to Korea precipitated the invasion of South Korea by the Communists. To keep the
record straight here are some facts.
On July 1, 1949, H. R. 5330 was approved by the House Committee on Foreign
Affairs. It provided "economic aid" to South Korea in the form of funds for hydro-
electric power plants, etc. No funds for military equipment (that's another story).
This bill was cleared for action in the House on July 26, 1949, but the Speaker
and the other Administration leaders did not bring it to a vote until January 19,
1950, when it was defeated by one vote, 192 to 191. Mind you, a six months' delay
GERALD FORD GBRART
so presumably the legislation wasn't too urgent. Frankly it was defeated principally
because President Truman and Secretary of State Acheson in effect said Formosa would
be turned over to Red China, and South Korea would not be defended by the United
States if Communist forces attacked.
After the defeat of the House bill, H. R, 5330, the Administration, less than
30 days later brought up a somewhat similar bill which had passed the Senate on
October 12, 1949. The new proposal, however, was considerably different from the
one which the House originally defeated. Specifically it contained assistance to
non-Communist forces on Formosa. Because of the change in attitude in this regard
by the President and Mr. Acheson the revised legislation was approved.
Remember this. The 21-day delay between the defeat of the first bill on Jan-
uary 19th and the passage of the second on February 9th after a previous six months
delay didn't affect one iota the invasion decision of the North Koreans. In light
of General MacArthur's recent statement as to the strategic importance of Formosa
it is fortunate that a few of us said no economic aid to South Korea unless there
is a consistent attitude in reference to other Pacific areas.
******
General MacArthur according to reliable sources predicted quite accurately when
the North Koreans would attack. On December 8, 1949, MacArthur advised the Army
officials in Washington "No invasion appears imminent." On March 10, 1950, he
reported to the Pentagon that North Korean forces would invade in June. They did.
******
VISITORS: Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Needham, Mr. and Mrs. Ted Pearson and son, Mr. and
Mrs. R. Forward and daughter and Mr. Stanley Fuehrer, all of Grand Rapids.
******
September 21, 1950
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
The big news in Washington this week is the resignation of Secretary of Defense
Louis A. Johnson. This change in the President's cabinet was inevitable and absolute-
ly necessary despite Mr. Truman's statements to the effect that both Acheson and
Johnson would stay on as long as he was in the White House,
The President selected General Marshall as Johnson's successor. This move will
help to restore public confidence in the handling of our national defense policies,
Because General Marshall IS a proven military leader.
However, before General Marshall can accept the job of Secretary of Defense, the
Congress must change the Military Reorganization Act. The present law provides that
no military careerist can be appointed to the civilian post of Sccretary of Defense
within ten years after service in the Armed Forces. Under normal circumstances this
is & good provision in the law for this country has believed in military leaders
dominating our government, The present situation is SO critical however, it seems
desirable to a man of Conoral Marchall's calibre at the head of the Army, Navy
and Air Force. The House undoubtedly will quickly revise this provision
in the S. the full benefit of General Marshall's experience
and knowledge.
Mr. Truman's uncalled for remarks about the Marine Corps are still causing
considerable comment in Washington. Every Congressman was bombarded with telegrams,
letters and phone calls denouncing the President's statement that the Marines were
the "Navy's police force" and that the Marines "have a propaganda machine equal to
Stalin's".
It is regrettable that the Commander in Chief should belittle one of our fine
military organizations. His public apology may have helped some, but it was small
comfort to those who fought SO valiantly all during World War II and who are now doing
a fine job in South Korea. Those who have complained to me were not just Marines.
GERALD R.FORD CIBRARY
In fact, most of the objections came from sailors, airmen and army men. It just
didn't seem right to them that their "buddies" should be vilified.
It isn't too well known but Secretary of Defense Johnson's regime tried to do
a "hatchet job" on the Marine Corps. The President as evidenced by his statements
apparently went along with Mr. Johnson in this regard even though Congress said NO
at every turn.
Several weeks ago this newsletter contained some information on Social Security
law changes. A number of people in Kent and Ottawa counties are apparently unfamilar
with the location of the local officies of the Social Security Administration. Here's
the dope. In Grand Rapids go to 906 Grand Rapids National Bank Building between
8:30 A.M. and 5:00 P.M. In Holland, go to the Post office every Tuesday between 10:00
A.M. and 1:30 P.M. In Grand Haven, go to the Post Office every Monday from noon to
1:30 P.M.
******
A good many small businessmen in our district have wanted information on govern-
ment war contracts. In order to help out I have arranged for an all day Business-
Government Conference in Grand Rapids on September 20th at the Rowe Hotel. Ten top
government officials will be there to explain defense procurement policies and answer
any inquiries. Make your reservations through the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce,
but you don't have to be a member of the Chamber of Commerce to attend.
Folks are wondering if and when Congress might adjourn during this national
emergency. Personally I don't think Congress should adjourn. It would be much better
to recess for limited periods. After all the G.I.'s in Korea can't adjourn. Why
should Congress? Apparently the President after conferring with his aides has OK'd
an adjournment late in September. If Congress adjourns only the President can call
the House and Senate back while if we recess the leaders in the House and Senate can
reconvene the Congress.
VISITORS: Ben Muller and Bernard P. Hoekstra of Grand Rapids, Clarence J. O'Hearn of
Marne and Floyd Harrison of Conklin.
September 28, 1950
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
A very effective story in pictures came across my desk the other day. Sorry I
Cannot reproduce the drawing but the message can and should be discussed. One scene
shows two American G.I.'s in Korea fighting to preserve our Republic. In the next
picture an average citizen (50% didn't vote in 1948) is dozing on his porch in this
country while the voter registration booth is empty. This should be a strong remin-
der that Michigan citizens must register by October 18th if they expect to vote Nov-
ember 7th. It isn't fair to expect our young men to protect our rights in battle if
we will not use those privileges here at home.
******
Within the last few months many citizens have written me and other Congressmen
demanding that Secretary of State Acheson and Secretary of Defense Johnson be fired.
My views on this situation are well known but a member of Congress actually has no
control in such cases. In other words, Congress can't fire a member of the President's
cabinet. The Senate must confirm the appointment of high ranking federal officials
but only the President can fire them. Congress could petition the President to fire
an unpopular member of his cabinet; but such a petition has no binding force.
******
Why was there some objection to the appointment of General Marshall as the new
Secretary of Defense? The arguments against his appointment can be summarized as
follows: 1) General Marshall after World War II helped to formulate and put into
effect the policy of appeasing the Chinese Communists. 2) General Marshall will be
dominated by the policies of Secretary of State Acheson and the left wingers in the
State Department, 3) General Marshall who retired as Secretary of State several
years ago because of bad health, is now almost 70 years old and not able to stand
the strain of such responsibilities. 4) The President could have selected a qual-
ified civilian for the job instead of asking Congress to change the basic law of the
LIDRARY
land so a military man could be appointed. No one denies that General Marshall was
a good soldier and a fine citizen. He will probably do a good job if his health
holds out and if he isn't dominated in his policies by the State Department gang.
With the 81st Congress drawing to a close some folks at home have inquired what
happens to bills that have been passed by the House or Senate and not approved by
the other. Let's take two specific cases. The House of Representatives in March,
1950 approved statehood bills for Alaska and Hawaii. The Senate must act on these
bills before the end of this session or the bills must be reintroduced next year and
start again at the bottom of the legislative ladder when the 82nd Congress convenes.
Lee Pressman, one time New Deal lawyer and later a top aide to President Murray
of the CIO, finally came "clean" by testifying before the Committee on Un-American
Activities that he was an active Communist while he worked for the Department of
Agriculture. Mr. Pressman during his appearance before the Committee named other
former high ranking New Deal officials as "commies". This testimony and that of
many others, particularly the Alger Hiss case, proves rather conclusively that basic
American policies for the last eighteen years were undoubtedly sabotaged by intell-
ectual revolutionaries who travelled under the guise of reformers.
******
How good is your memory? Who made the following statements?
June 21, 1948: "I like 'Old Joe' Stalin. He is a decent fellow."
August, 1948: "The investigation of Alger Hiss is nothing but a red herring."
Feb. 28, 1949: (In a letter to former Governor George Earle, of Pennsylvania)--
"I am of the opinion that the country is perfectly safe as far
as Communism is concerned."
June 23, 1950: "We are closer to peace than at any time in the past five years."
VISITORS: Mr. & Mrs. Alfred W. Hewitt, Mr. & Mrs. John W. Cummiskey, Miss Rose-
mary Scott and Mother, Roland F. Allaben, Mr. & Mrs. Louis Feringa and Robert K. Stolz,
of Grand Rapids. Mr. & Mrs. Neal Nagtzaam and Mr. & Mrs. Joe LaMaire Jr. of Grand
Haven.
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