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Joint Release with 14 Other Representatives Korea, July 30, 1950
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Joint Release with 14 Other Representatives Korea, July 30, 1950
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The original documents are located in Box D13, folder "Joint Release with 14 Other
Representatives Korea, July 30, 1950" of the Ford Congressional Papers: Press Secretary
and Speech File at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
Copyright Notice
The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the making of
photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. The Council donated to the United
States of America his copyrights in all of his unpublished writings in National Archives collections.
Works prepared by U.S. Government employees as part of their official duties are in the public
domain. The copyrights to materials written by other individuals or organizations are presumed to
remain with them. If you think any of the information displayed in the PDF is subject to a valid
copyright claim, please contact the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
Digitized from Box D13 of The Ford Congressional Papers: Press Secretary and Speech File at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library
FOR RELEASE At 7:00 P.M.
on Sunday, July 30, 1950
JOINT STATEMENT ON THE CURRENT SITUATION BY FIFTEEN
MEMBERS OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Korea has exposed the fact that a tragic diplomatic and military inade-
quacy exists and has crystallized the serious nature of our present position. Ameri-
cans are quite rightfully looking to Washington for guidance and leadership. Lack of
leadership at this time will breed either hysteria or complacency. Both can be avoid-
ed by a vigorous program of positive action of which the American public is made
aware.
We consider that the present military action in Korea cannot be deemed an
isolated event. It is a manifestation of the Communist intent to achieve world
domination. The free nations of the world, therefore, can expect a series of such
outbreaks at the several points of friction at which the free and Soviet worlds come
into physical contact. This conflict will not be resolved either quickly or easily,
and will require a large measure of sacrifice by all freedom-loving peoples. Given
adequate and trustworthy leadership, they will meet this challenge.
The responsibility is not alone the burden of the United States. Circum-
stances have necessitated immediate action by this country. Leadership is in our
hands at this time. But, all free nations must be prepared to implement further the
decisions of the United Nations. Each must, with vigor and determination, contribute
men and resources according to its ability.
The problem is two-fold. The immediate objective is the successful repulse
of the communist aggression in Korea. The ultimate objective must be peace in a free
world. This goal can only be achieved by military strength and a firm and consistent
policy both foreign and domestic. Evident Communist aims for world domination make
this fact inescapable.
America's responsibility requires foresight and continuity of effort.
Military, industrial, and civilian components must be integrated.
FORD i LIBRARY GERALD
- 2 -
NECESSITY FOR SHARING THE BURDEN
Modern warfare requires the equal sharing of the burden of war by all
citizens. The possibility of total war requires that plans be drawn now for the
utilization of all of the resources of the nation. It is essential that legislation
be enacted for an immediate and continuing inventory of these human and physical
resources.
The Congress should immediately draft and enact stand-by legislation pro--
viding in detail for the total mobilization of American manpower, industry and re-
sources for the civilian and military defense of the nation. Immediate legislation
should provide a military training program for all male citizens of military age,1
Provision should be made for the full utilization of the services of those not quali-
fied for military service.
LEGISLATION IMPERATIVE
Total mobilization requires an orderly and fair distribution of the
necessities of life, and an assured and steady flow of military equipment and
supplies.
Congress should immediately draft and enact stand-by legislation to
establish a system of price, wage, profit and rent controls, rationing of essential
commodities in short supply, allocations of critical raw materials and other essential
necessities. Legislation in each case should be so drafted as to permit frequent
legislative review by the Congress and should contain termination dates in each dele-
gation of authority. The legislation should not become effective until passage of a
Resolution by the Congress. The Congress should retain the right to "pull the
trigger" or unload the gun.
1/ Mr. Davis, Mr. Keating, and Mr. Lovre expressed reservations concerning this
recommendation. with this single exception, the full statement is unanimous.
GERALD FORD VIBRARY
$61.
SPENDING
To the extent possible, the cost of our security program must be met
currently and not deferred to future years. This action is dictated by our
responsibility to future generations and by the need to combat the forces of
inflation.
Recognizing that taxes today are at an abnormally high rate, first
emphasis must be placed upon a diversion of present non-defense spending to
meet defense needs. Spending for activities of government that in ordinary
times may be desirable must give way to the greater and immediate needs of
the national security. This requires the elimination of all. spending not
essential to the basic civilian and defense requirements of the nation. New
legislative proposals both foreign and domestic which do not bear directly
upon the defense effort should not be instituted during the period of the
present emergency,
To avoid current deficits, taxes on income and profits must be imme-
diately increased.
Preparation for total mobilization requires that Congress immediately
draft and enact tax legislation to provide against excessive profits and ex-
cessive income.
MILITARY
Manpower and equipment mobilization programs for all branches of the
Armed Services must be vigorously pursued.
We deem it necessary to remind Defense officials that the Marine Corps
always has been and now is America's most effective expeditionary police force.
Its maximum effective readiness must be immediately established and its integ-
rity and instant readiness maintained.
The importance of the reserve and National Guard components and indi-
viduals has been largely neglected in recent years. In light of the historical
fact that our arms have depended for success upon the civilian in our fighting
forces, immediate emphasis must be placed upon the expansion, training, and
equipping of such units. Efforts should be made to establish Reserve Officer
Training Corps programs at all colleges and universities where not now existent.
An adequate number of American ships and shipyards should be kept avail-
able to meet transportation requirements on short notice,
Immediate mobilization needs should not obscure or displace research
and armament readiness programs.
Censorship should be immediately imposed on all troop and naval distri,
butions and movements.
GERALD FORD LIBRARY
- 4 -
SURPLUS COLMODITIES
The Federal Government holds great quantities of foodstuffs and other
agricultural products acquired through purchase under commodity price support
programs. Whenever prices are rising because of scarcity of such commodities,
the stocks of the government should be made available for stabilizing purposes
through normal distribution channels when and where needed.
CIVILIAN DEFENSE
The cities, towns and villages of America today stand almost defense-
less in the face. of the threat of atomic bombing. Civilian defense has been
sorely neglected. The matter of legislation to accomplish the orderly and
rapid organization of the civilian defense system is of the most urgent nec-
essity. Immediate steps should be taken by the Congress to encourage and
assist vulnerable and strategic areas of the nation, to organize and place
in a constant state of readiness such civilian defense components as are con-
sidered essential to the safety and security of live and property.
COMMUNISM
Communists should be required to register at once, and the government
authorized to place restrictions upon their movements. Increased penalties
for sabotage and espionage should be immediately enacted into law. It is
folly of the highest order to draft Americans for combat against communism
abroad, and at the same time to permit communists unlimited freedom of action
at home.
Legislation should be enacted immediately by Congress which will insure
adequate public knowledge of communists and their activities.
LEGISLATIVE AUTHORITY
In order to carry out the recommendations contained herein the Congress
should remain in session during this critical period. Legislation to meet
possible future requirements should be prepared so as to be immediately avail-
able. Congress must be kept constantly and fully informed on the progress of
our defense effort. Constant surveillance should be maintained by the Congress
over authorizations and appropriations to insure that the legislative intent is
not disregarded nor defense funds again arbitrarily impounded.
PUBLIC CONFIDENCE
Administration of any program designed to facilitate the successful pro-
secution of the defense effort will require the services of men in whom the
people of the nation have confidence, without regard to considerations of parti
FORD LIBRARY
san politics. Public confidence in officials at policy-making levels is essens
tial to cooperation in the mobilization effort. Inept management, lack of fore-
sight, inadequate quantities of weapons of effective nature, ill-trained and
- 5 -
poorly equipped troops thrown into combat against devastating odds, have combined
to shake the confidence of the American people in the capabilities of some
public officials now in office. These should be replaced by men of vision and
determination.
THE SACRED TRUST
Unfortunately, individual liberty becomes the first casualty of mobil-
ization. It will avail us nothing if we destroy dictatorships and totalitarian-
ism abroad, only to find that in the fight we have lost our own sacred freedoms.
Power must be delegated into the hands of a few men and the habit of liv-
ing in power is a strong one. When a little of the individual's liberty goes to
Washington it seldom finds its way home again. For that reason we recommend
checks and restrictions upon the exercise of authority to be delegated to the
President. So long as the Congress of the United States retains its own con-
stitutional power the liberties of the American people cannot long be held
hostage. It is only when the Congress abdicates its duties and responsibilities
that a real and terrifying danger comes into being.
The powers delegated for the defense effort must be considered a sacred
trust by those who receive them. They must be exercised wisely on an adminis-
trative plane above partisan politics for the welfare and safety of every
American. But what is of primary importance is the fact that the essential
powers must be returned in that moment when the threat against our safety has
passed.
The American people are rightfully jealous of their liberties, They will
hold responsible those to whom they entrust the most sacred of their personal
and civil rights.
John J. Allen, Jr., 7th Dist. California Kenneth B. Keating, 40th Dist. N. Y.
J. Caleb Boggs, At L Delaware
Harold O, Lovre, 1st Dist. S. D.
John W. Byrnes, 8th Dist. Wisconsin
Thruston Ballard Morton, 3rd Dist. Ky.
Norris Cotton, 2nd Dist. New Hampshire
Charles P. Nelson, 2nd Dist. Maine
Glenn R. Davis, 2nd Dist. Wisconsin
Richard M. Nixon, 12th Dist. Calif.
Gerald R. Ford, Jr., 5th Dist. Michigan
Walt er Norblad, 1st Dist, Oregon
Ben Guill, 18th Dist. Texas
Charles E. Potter, 11th Dist. Mich.
Donald L. Jackson, 16th Dist. California
FORD & LIBRARY GERALD
The following statement was prepared and released to the press
on July 30, 1950 by fifteen of the younger members of the Republican Party
in the House of Representatives. It is believed that several of the points
touched upon in your recent letter to my office are covered in the subject
matter of this statement, and that you will find additional points of in-
terest also discussed. I should very much appreciate comment from you
on the matters discussed in the statement, to the end that my future
actions may be guided to some extent by the constructive comments of
voters at home.
The interest and concern that motivated your letter to me is very
much appreciated, and I sincerely solicit your opinions and suggestions.
Sincerely yours,
GERALD R. FORD, JR., M.C.
TEXT OF A JOINT STATEMENT ON THE CURRENT SITUATION RELEASED ON JULY 30, 1950
BY HOUSE MEMBERS ALLEN (CAL.); BOGGS (DELAWARE); BYRNES (WISC.); COTTON
(N.H.); DAVIS (WISC.); FORD (MICH.); GUILL (TEX.); JACKSON (CALIF.); KEATING
(N.Y.); LOVRE (S.D.); MORTON (KY.); NELSON (MAINE); NIXON (CALIF.); NORBLAD
(ORE.) and POTTER (MICH.).
Korea has exposed the fact that a tragic diplomatic and military inad-
equacy exists. It has crystallized the serious nature of our present posi-
tion. Americans are quite rightfully looking to Washington for guidance
and leadership. Lack of leadership at this time will breed either hysteria
or complacency. Both can be avoided by a positive program of vigorous
action of which the American people is made aware.
We consider that the present military action in Korea cannot be deemed
an isolated event. It is a manifestation of the Communist intent to achieve
world domination. The free nations of the world, therefore, can expect a
series of such outbreaks at the several points of friction at which the free
& nd Soviet worlds come into physical contact. This conflict will not be
dissolved either quickly or easily, and will require a large measure of
sacrifice by all freedom-loving peoples. Given adequate and trustworthy
leadership. they will meet this challenge.
The responsibility is not alone the burden of the United States. Cir-
cumstances have necessitated immediate action by this country. Leadership
is in our hands at this time. But, all free nations must be prepared to
implement further the decisions of the United Nations. Each must, with
vigor and determination, contribute men and resources according to its
ability.
The problem is two-fold. The immediate objective is the successful
repulse of the Communist aggression in Korea. The ultimate objective must
be peace in a free world. This goal can only be achieved by military strength
and a firm and consistent policy both foreign and domestic. Evident Communist
aims for world domination make this fact inescapable.
America's responsibility requires foresight and continuity of effort.
Military, industrial, and civilian components must be integrated.
Necessity For Sharing the Burden
Modern warfare requires the equal sharing of the burden by all citizens.
The possibility of total war requires that plans be drawn now for the utiliza-
tion of all of the resources of the nation. It is essential that legislation
be enacted for an immediate and continuing inventory of these human and
physical resources.
The Congress should immediately draft and enact stand-by legislation
providing in detail for the total mobilization of American manpower, industry
and resources for the civilian and military defense of the nation. Immediate
legislation should provide a military training program for all male citizens
of military age. (See footnote 1). Provision should be made for the full
utilization of the services of those not qualified for military service.
GERALD FORD LIBRARY
- 2 -
Legislation Imperative
Total mobilization requires an orderly and fair distribution of the
necessities of life, and an assured and steady flow of military equipment
and supplies.
Congress should immediately draft and enact stand-by legislation to
establish a system of price, wage, profit and rent controls, rationing of
essential commodities in short supply, allocations of critical raw materials
and other essential necessities. Legislation in each case should be so
drafted as to permit frequent legislative review by the Congress and should
contain termination dates in each delegation of authority. The legislation
should not become effective until passage of a resolution by the Congress.
The Congress should retain the right to "pull the trigger" or unload the gun.
Spending
To the extent possible, the cost of our security program must be met
currently and not deferred to future years. This action is dictated by our
responsibility to future generations and by the need to combat the forces of
inflation.
Recognizing that taxes today are at an abnormally high rate, first
emphasis must be placed upon a diversion of present non-defense spending to
meet defense needs. Spending for activities of government that in ordinary
times may be desirable must give way to the greater and immediate needs
of the national security. This requires the elimination of all spending not
essential to the basic civilian and defense requirements of the nation.
New legislative proposals both foreign and domestic which do not bear di-
rectly upon the defense effort should not be instituted during the period
of the present emergency.
To avoid current deficits, taxes on income and profits must be im-
mediately increased.
Preparation for total mobilization requires that the Congress immed-
iately draft and enact tax legislation to provide against excess profits
and excessive income.
Military
Manpower and equipment mobilization for all branches of the armed ser-
vices must be vigorously pursued.
We deem it necessary to remind Defense officials that the Marine Corps
always has been and now is America's most effective expeditionary police
force. Its maximum effective readiness must be immediately established and
its integrity and instant readiness maintained.
The importance of the Reserve and National Guard components and indi-
viduals has been largely neglected in recent years. In light of the his-
torical fact that our arms have depended for success upon the civilian in
our fighting forces, immediate emphasis must be placed upon the expansion,
training and equipping of such units. Efforts should be made to establish
Reserve Officer Training Corps at all colleges and universities where not
now existent.
An adequate number of American ships and shipyards should be kept avail-
able to meet transporation requirements on short notice.
Immediate mobilization needs should not obscure or displace research
and armament readiness programs.
Censorship should be immediately imposed on all troop and naval dis-
tributions and movements.
Surplus Commodities
The Federal Government holds great quantities of foodstuffs and other
agricultural products acquired through purchase under commodity price support
programs. Whenever prices are rising because of a scarcity of such commodities,
the stocks of the government should be made available for stabilizing purposes
through normal distribution channels when and where needed.
Civiliah Defense
The cities, towns and villages of America today stand almost defense-
less in the face of the threat of atomic bombing. Civilian defense has been
sorely neglected. The matter of legislation to accomplish the orderly and
rapid organization of the civilian defense system is of the most urgent
necessity.
GERALD FORD LIBRARY
- 3 -
Immediate steps should be taken by the Congress to encourage and assist
vulnerable and strategic areas of the nation, to organize and place in a
constant state of readiness such civilian defense components as are con-
sidered essential to the safety and security of life and property.
Communism
Communists should be required to register at once, and the government
authorized to place restrictions upon their movements. Increased penalties for
sabotage and espionage should be immediately enacted into law. It is folly
of the highest order to draft Americans for combat against Communism abroad,
and at the same time to permit communists unlimited freedom of action at home.
Legislation should be enacted immediately by Congress which will insure
adequate public knowledge of Communists and their activities.
Legislative Authority
In order to carry out the recommendations contained herein the Congress
should remain in session during this critical period. Legislation to meet
possible future requirements should be prepared so as to be immediately avail-
able. Congress must be kept constantly and fully informed on the progress of
our defense effort. Constant surveillance should be maintained by the Congress
over authorizations and appropriations to insure that the legislative intent
is not disregarded nor defense funds again arbitrarily impounded.
Public Confidence
Administration of any program designed to facilitate the successful
prosecution of the defense effort will require the services of men in whom
the people of the nation have confidence, without regard to considerations
of partisan polítics. Public confidence in officials at policy-making levels
is essential to cooperation in the mobilization effort. Inept management,
lack of foresight, inadequate quantities of weapons of effective nature,
poorly-equipped troops thrown into combat against devastating odds, have
combined to shake the confidence of the American people in the capabilities
of some public officials now in office. These should be replaced by men of
vision and determination.
The Sacred Trust
Unfortunately, individual liberty becomes the first casualty of mobil-
ization. It will avail us nothing if we destroy dictatorship and totalitar-
ianism abroad, only to find that in the fight we have lost our own sacred
freedoms.
Power must be delegated into the hands of a few men and the habit of
living in power is a strong one. When a little of the individual's liberty
goes to Washington it seldom finds its way home again. For that reason we
recommend checks and restrictions upon the exercise of authority to be
delegated to the President. So long as the Congress of the United States
retains its own constitutional power the liberties of the American people
cannot long be held hostage. It is only when the Congress abdicates its
duties and responsibilities that a real and terrifying danger comes into being.
The powers delegated for the defense effort must be considered a sacred
trust by those who receive them. They must be exercised wisely on an adminis-
trative plan above partisan politics for the welfare and safety of every
American. But what is of primary importance is the fact that the essential
powers must be returned in that moment when the threat against our anfety has
passed.
The American people are rightfully jealous of their liberties. They
will hold responsible those to whom they entrust the most sacred of their per-
sonal and civil rights.
FOOTNOTE 1: Mr. Davis, Mr. Keating and Mr. Lovre expressed reservations
concerning this recommendation. With this single exception, the full statement
is unenimous.
GERALD FORD LIBRARY
The following statement was prepared and released to the press
on July 30, 1950 by fifteen of the younger members of the Republican Party
in the House of Representatives. It is believed that several of the points
touched upon in your recent letter to my office are covered in the subject
matter of this statement, and that you will find additional points of in-
terest also discussed. I should very much appreciate comment from you
on the matters discussed in the statement, to the end that my future
actions may be guided to some extent by the constructive comments of
voters at home.
The interest and concern that motivated your letter to me is very
much appreciated, and I sincerely solicit your opinions and suggestions.
Sincerely yours,
GERALD R. FORD, JR., M.C.
TEXT OF A JOINT STATEMENT ON THE CURRENT SITUATION RELEASED ON JULY 30, 1950
BY HOUSE MEMBERS ALLEN (CAL.); BOGGS (DELAWARE); BYRNES (WISC.); COTTON
(N.H.); DAVIS (WISC.); FORD (MICH.); GUILL (TEX.); JACKSON (CALIF.); KEATING
(N.Y.); LOVRE (S.D.); MORTON (KY.); NELSON (MAINE); NIXON (CALIF.); NORBLAD
(ORE.) and POTTER (MICH.).
Korea has exposed the fact that a tragic diplomatic and military inad-
equacy exists. It has crystallized the serious nature of our present posi-
tion. Americans are quite rightfully looking to Washington for guidance
and leadership. Lack of leadership at this time will breed either hysteria
or complacency. Both can be avoided by a positive program of vigorous
action of which the American people is made aware.
We consider that the present military action in Korea cannot be deemed
an isolated event. It is a manifestation of the Communist intent to achieve
world domination. The free nations of the world, therefore, can expect a
series of such outbreaks at the several points of friction at which the free
a nd Soviet worlds come into physical contact. This conflict will not be
dissolved either quickly or easily, and will require a large measure of
sacrifice by all freedom-loving peoples. Given adequate and trustworthy
leadership, they will meet this challenge.
The responsibility is not alone the burden of the United States. Cir-
cumstances have necessitated immediate action by this country. Leadership
is in our hands at this time. But, all free nations must be prepared to
implement further the decisions of the United Nations. Each must, with
vigor and determination, contribute men and resources according to its
ability.
The problem is two-fold. The immediate objective is the successful
repulse of the Communist aggression in Korea. The ultimate objective must
be peace in a free world. This goal can only be achieved by military strength
and a firm and consistent policy both foreign and domestic. Evident Communist
aims for world domination make this fact inescapable.
America's responsibility requires foresight and contimuity of effort.
Military, industrial, and civilian components must be integrated.
Necessity For Sharing the Burden
Modern warfare requires the equal sharing of the burden by all citizens.
The possibility of total war requires that plans be drawn now for the utiliza-
tion of all of the resources of the nation. It is essential that legislation
be enacted for an immediate and continuing inventory of these human and
physical resources.
The Congress should immediately draft and enact stand-by legislation
providing in detail for the total mobilization of American manpower, industry
and resources for the civilian and military defense of the nation. Immediate
legislation should provide a military training program for all male citizens
of military age. (See footnote 1). Provision should be made for the full
utilization of the services of those not qualified for military service.
GERALD FORD LIBRARY
- 2 -
Legislation Imperative
Total mobilization requires an orderly and fair distribution of the
necessities of life, and an assured and steady flow of military equipment
and supplies.
Congress should immediately draft and enact stand-by legislation to
establish a system of price, wage, profit and rent controls, rationing of
essential commodities in short supply, allocations of critical raw materials
and other essential necessities. Legislation in each case should be so
drafted as to permit frequent legislative review by the Congress and should
contain termination dates in each delegation of authority. The legislation
should not become effective until passage of a resolution by the Congress.
The Congress should retain the right to "pull the trigger" or unload the gun.
Spending
To the extent possible, the cost of our security program must be met
currently and not deferred to future years. This action is dictated by our
responsibility to future generations and by the need to combat the forces of
inflation.
Recognizing that taxes today are at an abnormally high rate, first
emphasis must be placed upon a diversion of present non-defense spending to
meet defense needs. Spending for activities of government that in ordinary
times may be desirable must give way to the greater and immediate needs
of the national security. This requires the elimination of all spending not
essential to the basic civilian and defense requirements of the nation.
New legislative proposals both foreign and domestic which do not bear di-
rectly upon the defense effort should not be instituted during the period
of the present emergency.
To avoid current deficits, taxes on income and profits must be im-
mediately increased.
Preparation for total mobilization requires that the Congress immed-
iately draft and enact tax legislation to provide against excess profits
and excessive income.
Military
Manpower and equipment mobilization for all branches of the armed ser-
vices must be vigorously pursued.
We deem it necessary to remind Defense officials that the Marine Corps
always has been and now is America's most effective expeditionary police
force. Its maximum effective readiness must be immediately established and
its integrity and instant readiness maintained.
The importance of the Reserve and National Guard components and indi-
viduals has been largely neglected in recent years. In light of the his-
torical fact that our arms have depended for success upon the civilian in
our fighting forces, immediate emphasis must be placed upon the expansion,
training and equipping of such units. Efforts should be made to establish
Reserve Officer Training Corps at all colleges and universities where not
now existent.
An adequate number of American ships and shipyards should be kept avail-
able to meet transportation requirements on short notice.
Immediate mobilization needs should not obscure or displace research
and armament readiness programs.
Censorship should be immediately imposed on all troop and naval dis-
tributions and movements.
Surplus Commodities
The Federal Government holds great quantities of foodstuffs and other
agricultural products acquired through purchase under commodity price support
programs. Whenever prices are rising because of a scarcity of such commodities,
the stocks of the government should be made available for stabilizing purposes
through normal distribution channels when and where needed.
Civiliah Defense
The cities, towns and villages of America today stand almost defense-
less in the face of the threat of atomic bombing. Civilian defense has been
sorely neglected. The matter of legislation to accomplish the orderly and
rapid organization of the civilian defense system is of the most urgent
GERALD FORD LIBRARY
necessity.
- 3 -
Immediate steps should be taken by the Congress to encourage and assist
vulnerable and strategic areas of the nation, to organize and place in a
constant state of readiness such civilian efense components as are con-
sidered essential to the safety and security of life and property.
Communism
Communists should be required to register at once, and the government
authorized to place restrictions upon their movements. Increased penalties for
sabotage and espionage should be immediately enacted into law. It is folly
of the highest order to draft Americans for combat against Communism abroad,
and at the same time to permit communists unlimited freedom of action at home.
Legislation should be enacted immediately by Congress which will insure
adequate public knowledge of Communists and their activities.
Legislative Authority
In order to carry out the recommendations contained herein the Congress
should remain in session during this critical period. Legislation to meet
possible future requirements should be prepared SO as to be immediately avail-
able. Congress must be kept constantly and fully informed on the progress of
our defense effort. Constant surveillance should be maintained by the Congress
over authorizations and appropriations to insure that the legislative intent
is not disregarded nor defense funds again arbitrarily impounded.
Public Confidence
Administration of any program designed to facilitate the successful
prosecution of the defense effort will require the services of men in whom
the people of the nation have confidence, without regard to considerations
of partisan politics. Public confidence in officials at policy-making levels
is essential to cooperation in the mobilization effort. Inept management,
lack of foresight, inadequate quantities of weapons of effective nature,
poorly-equipped troops thrown into combat against devastating odds, have
combined to shake the confidence of the American people in the capabilities
of some public officials now in office. These should be replaced by men of
vision and determination.
The Sacred Trust
Unfortunately, individual liberty becomes the first casualty of mobil-
ization. It will avail us nothing if we destroy dictatorship and totalitar
ianism abroad, only to find that in the fight we have lost our own sacred
freedoms.
Power must be delegated into the hands of a few men and the habit of
living in power is a strong one. When a little of the individual's liberty
goes to Washington it seldom finds its way home again. For that reason we
recommend checks and restrictions upon the exercise of authority to be
delegated to the President. So long as the Congress of the United States
retains its own constitutional power the liberties of the American people
cannot long be held hostage. It is only when the Congress abdicates its
duties and responsibilities that a real and terrifying danger comes into being.
The powers delegated for the defense effort must be considered a sacred
trust by those who receive them. They must be exercised wisely on an adminis-
trative plan above partisan politics for the welfare and safety of every
American. But what is of primary importance is the fact that the essential
powers must be returned in that moment when the threat against our safety has
passed.
The American people are rightfully jealous of their liberties. They
will hold responsible those to whom they entrust the most sacred of their per-
sonal and civil rights.
FOOTNOTE 1: Mr. Davis, Mr. Keating and Mr. Lovre expressed reservations
concerning this recommendation. With this single exception, the full statement
is unenimous.
FORD & LIBRARY GERALD
FOR RELEASE At 7:00 P.M.
on Sunday, July 30, 1950
JOINT STATEMENT ON THE CURRENT SITUATION BY FIFTEEN
MEMBERS OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Korea has exposed the fact that a tragic diplomatic and military inade-
quacy exists and has crystallized the serious nature of our present position. Ameri-
cans are quite rightfully looking to Washington for guidance and leadership. Lack of
leadership at this time will breed either hysteria or complacency. Both can be avoid-
ed by a vigorous program of positive action of which the American public is made
aware.
We consider that the present military action in Korea cannot be deemed an
isolated event. It is a manifestation of the Communist intent to achieve world
domination. The free nations of the world, therefore, can expect a series of such
outbreaks at the several points of friction at which the free and Soviet worlds come
into physical contact. This conflict will not be resolved either quickly or easily,
and will require a large measure of sacrifice by all freedom-loving peoples. Given
adequate and trustworthy leadership, they will meet this challenge.
The responsibility is not alone the burden of the United States. Circum-
stances have necessitated immediate action by this country. Leadership is in our
hands at this time. But, all free nations must be prepared to implement further the
decisions of the United Nations. Each must, with vigor and determination, contribute
men and resources according to its ability.
The problem is two-fold. The immediate objective is the successful repulse
of the communist aggression in Korea. The ultimate objective must be peace in a free
world. This goal can only be achieved by military strength and a firm and consistent
policy both foreign and domestic. Evident Communist aims for world domination make
this fact inescapable.
America's responsibility requires foresight and continuity of effort.
Military, industrial, and civilian components must be integrated.
FORD & LIBRARY GERALD
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NECESSITY FOR SHARING THE BURDEN
Modern warfare requires the equal sharing of the burden of war by all
citizens. The possibility of total war requires that plans be drawn now for the
utilization of all of the resources of the nation. It is essential that legislation
be enacted for an immediate and continuing inventory of these human and physical
resources.
The Congress should immediately draft and enact stand-by legislation pro-
viding in detail for the total mobilization of American manpower, industry and re-
sources for the civilian and military defense of the nation. Immediate legislation
should provide a military training program for all male citizens of military age.¹
Provision should be made for the full utilization of the services of those not quali-
fied for military service.
LEGISLATION IMPERATIVE
Total mobilization requires an orderly and fair distribution of the
necessities of life, and an assured and steady flow of military equipment and
supplies,
Congress should immediately draft and enact stand-by legislation to
establish a system of price, wage, profit and rent controls, rationing of essential
commodities in short supply, allocations of critical raw materials and other essential
necessities. Legislation in each case should be so drafted as to permit frequent
legislative review by the Congress and should contain termination dates in each dele-
gation of authority, The legislation should not become effective until passage of a
Resolution by the Congress. The Congress should retain the right to "pull the
trigger" or unload the gun.
Mr. Davis, Mr. Keating, and Mr. Lovre expressed reservations concerning this
recommendation. with this single exception, the full statement is unanimous.
QERALO FORD LIBRARY
SPENDING
To the extent possible, the cost of our security program must be met
currently and not deferred to future years. This action is dictated by our
responsibility to future generations and by the need to combat the forces of
inflation.
Recognizing that taxes today are at an abnormally high rate, first
emphasis must be placed upon a diversion of present non-defense spending to
meet defense needs. Spending for activities of government that in ordinary
times may be desirable must give way to the greater and immediate needs of
the national security. This requires the elimination of all spending not
essential to the basic civilian and defense requirements of the nation. New
legislative proposals both foreign and domestic which do not bear directly
upon the defense effort should not be instituted during the period of the
present emergency.
To avoid current deficits, taxes on income and profits must be imme
diately increased.
Preparation for total mobilization requires that Congress immediately
draft and enact tax legislation to provide against excessive profits and ex-
cessive income.
MILITARY
Manpower and equipment mobilization programs for all branches of the
Armed Services must be vigorously pursued.
We deem it necessary to remind Defense officials that the Marine Corps
always has been and now is America's most effective expeditionary police force.
Its maximum effective readiness must be immediately established and its integ-
rity and instant readiness maintained.
The importance of the reserve and National Guard components and indi-
viduals has been largely neglected in recent years. In light of the historical
fact that our arms have depended for success upon the civilian in our fighting
forces, immediate emphasis must be placed upon the expansion, training, and
equipping of such units. Efforts should be made to establish Reserve Officer
Training Corps programs at all colleges and universities where not now existent.
An adequate number of American ships and shipyards should be kept avail-
able to meet transportation requirements on short notice.
Immediate mobilization needs should not obscure or displace research
and armament readiness programs.
Censorship should be immediately imposed on all troop and naval distri-
butions and movements.
GERALD FORD LIBRARY
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SURPLUS COMMODITIES
The Federal Government holds great quantities of foodstuffs and other
agricultural products acquired through purchase under commodity price support
programs. Whenever prices are rising because of scarcity of such commodities,
the stocks of the government should be made available for stabilizing purposes
through normal distribution channels when and where needed.
CIVILIAN DEFENSE
The cities, towns and villages of America today stand almost defense-
less in the face of the threat of atomic bombing. Civilian defense has been
sorely neglected. The matter of legislation to accomplish the orderly and
rapid organization of the civilian defense system is of the most urgent nec-
essity. Immediate steps should be taken by the Congress to encourage and
assist vulnerable and strategic areas of the nation, to organize and place
in a constant state of readiness such civilian defense components as are con-
sidered essential to the safety and security of live and property.
COMMUNISM
Communists should be required to register at once, and the government
authorized to place restrictions upon their movements. Increased penalties
for sabotage and espionage should be immediately enacted into law. It is
folly of the highest order to draft Americans for combat against communism
abroad, and at the same time to permit communists unlimited freedom of action
at home.
Legislation should be enacted immediately by Congress which will insure
adequate public knowledge of communists and their activities.
LEGISLATIVE AUTHORITY
In order to carry out the recommendations contained herein the Congress
should remain in session during this critical period. Legislation to meet
possible future requirements should be prepared so as to be immediately avail-
able. Congress must be kept constantly and fully informed on the progress of
our defense effort. Constant surveillance should be maintained by the Congress
over authorizations and appropriations to insure that the legislative intent is
not disregarded nor defense funds again arbitrarily impounded.
PUBLIC CONFIDENCE
Administration of any program designed to facilitate the successful pro-
secution of the defense effort will require the services of men in whom the
FORD
people of the nation have confidence, without regard to considerations of partice
san politics. Public confidence in officials at policy-making levels is essen
LIBRARY
GE
tial to cooperation in the mobilization effort. Inept management, lack of fore
sight, inadequate quantities of weapons of effective nature, ill-trained and
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poorly equipped troops thrown into combat against devastating odds, have combined
to shake the confidence of the American people in the capabilities of some
public officials now in office. These should be replaced by men of vision and
determination.
THE SACRED TRUST
Unfortunately, individual liberty becomes the first casualty of mobil-
ization. It will avail us nothing if we destroy dictatorships and totalitarian-
ism abroad, only to find that in the fight we have lost our own sacred freedoms.
Power must be delegated into the hands of a few men and the habit of liv-
ing in power is a strong one. When a little of the individual's liberty goes to
Washington it seldom finds its way home again. For that reason we recommend
checks and restrictions upon the exercise of authority to be delegated to the
President. So long as the Congress of the United States retains its own con-
stitutional power the liberties of the American people cannot long be held
hostage. It is only when the Congress abdicates its duties and responsibilities
that a real and terrifying danger comes into being.
The powers delegated for the defense effort must be considered a sacred
trust by those who receive them. They must be exercised wisely on an adminis-
trative plane above partisan politics for the welfare and safety of every
American. But what is of primary importance is the fact that the essential
powers must be returned in that moment when the threat against our safety has
passed.
The American people are rightfully jealous of their liberties. They will
hold responsible those to whom they entrust the most sacred of their personal
and civil rights.
John J. Allen, Jr., 7th Dist. California
Kenneth B. Keating, 40th Dist. N. Y.
J. Caleb Boggs, At L Delaware
Harold O. Lovre, 1st Dist. S. D.
John W. Byrnes, 8th Dist. Wisconsin
Thruston Ballard Morton, 3rd Dist. Ky.
Norris Cotton, 2nd Dist. New Hampshire
Charles P. Nelson, 2nd Dist. Maine
Glenn R. Davis, 2nd Dist. Wisconsin
Richard M. Nixon, 12th Dist. Calif.
Gerald R. Ford, Jr., 5th Dist. Michigan
Walt er Norblad, 1st Dist. Oregon
Ben Guill, 18th Dist. Texas
Charles E. Potter, 11th Dist. Mich.
Donald L. Jackson, 16th Dist. California
FORD