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This file contains materials relating to a proposed appointment as ambassador.
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1563149
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Shelton, Turner (1)
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1563149
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document
title
Shelton, Turner (1)
description
This file contains materials relating to a proposed appointment as ambassador.
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collections
John O. Marsh Files (Ford Administration)
John Marsh's General Subject Files
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Ambassadors
Presidential appointments
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1976-07-31
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1976
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1975-06-01
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1975
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The original documents are located in Box 30, folder "Shelton, Turner (1)" of the John
Marsh Files 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. Gerald R. Ford 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States of America his copyrights in all of his unpublished writings in National Archives collections.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 30 of the John Marsh Files at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library
ITEMIZATION OF EVENTS RELATIVE TO
SHELTON APPOINTMENT
September 8, 1975, Shelton returned to Washington
from post as Ambassador to Nicaragua. In September 1975
Senator Curtis spoke to the President and to Secretary
Kissinger regarding Ambassadorship for Shelton.
October 18, 1975, Shelton informed by Mr. Eagleburger
that the President was nominating him as Ambassador to the
Bahamas.
October and November 1975 full field security
investigation conducted by FBI and Office of Security.
Full clearance granted.
December 29, 1975, Shelton notified that the
President had signed documents nominating him as
Ambassador to Bahamas.
January 1976 campaign immediately began to undercut
Shelton's appointment in Bahamas.
Mr. Eagleburger offered Shelton several positions
as Political Advisor. Shelton accepted, but over course
of several weeks was advised that Norfolk position which
had been offered had been filled and complications
arose with others.
In March 1976 Shelton was offered Consul Generalship
to Bermuda by Mr. Eagleburger.
About one week later Shelton was informed by
Mr. Eagleburger that Representative Wayne Hays objected
to his assignment to Bermuda and would not allow his
appointment.
Approximately 10 days later Mr. Eagleburger offered
Shelton Consul Generalship to Casablanca.
During May 1976 Senator Curtis discussed with the
President his desires in this matter and President stated
that he wished Shelton to accept Casablanca.
Shelton accepted Casablanca and began preparations
for departure.
Itemization of Events Relative to Shelton Appointment
Page 2
Within about 10 days State Department said that
Representative Jack Brooks had made certain allegations
in writing to Department.
State Department investigated these allegations both
by interviewing the disgruntled employee in E1 Salvador
under oath and team of 3 investigators, including auditors,
reviewed all allegations in Managua and took statements
under oath from all knowledgeable Embassy employees.
Three weeks later Mr. Eagleburger informed Shelton
that all allegations had been completely disproved and
that he "doubted that any other Ambassador could have
stood up as well to such an investigation."
During these discussions Mr. Eagleburger said that
in view of language problems in Casablanca, with Shelton
not having used French for a number of years, he was
offering Consul Generalship to Bermuda and that this
appointment had been cleared with Secretary Kissinger.
Within day or two Eagleburger said that orders for
Bermuda were "ready on his desk" but that Congressman Brooks
"was threatening to hold hearings" and to call Eagleburger
and the Inspector General as witnesses, but not Shelton.
Tase 0, 1975
Denr Sensbor:
Thank you for your latter to the President
concerning Ambassador Turner Shelton,
to know the President will appreciate your
providing him with 38 outline of the situation
and i shall make certain be receives your
letter without delay.
With kindest regards,
Sincerely,
William T. Kendall
Depaty Assistant
to the President
The Honorable Carl T. Certis
United States Senate
Washington, D. D.C. 20510
bcc: w/incoming to Douglas Bennett for further setion,
bee: w/lecoming to General Scoweroft - for appropriate handling.
bee: w/incoming to Patrick O'Dennell - for your information.
bcc: w/incoming to Max Friedersdorf - for your information.
W TK:EF:VO:vo
FORD i LIBRARY GERALD
CURTIS
COMMITTEES:
ASPICULTURE AND FORESTHY
FINANCE
JOINT COMMITTEE ON INTERNAL REVENUE
TAXATION
Mnited States Senate
SELECT COMMITTEE ON STANDANDS AND
CONDUCT
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20510
CHAINMAN OF REPUBLICAN CONFERENCE
June 27, 1975
The Honorable Gerald Ford
President of the United States
The White House
Washington, D. C. 20500
My dear Mr. President:
I am writing to you in behalf of Mr. Turner Shelton, who at
{
present is our Ambassador to Nicaragua. Ambassador Shelton is a
fine man, he is dedicated to our country and he has done a very good
job in Nicaragua.
A situation has arisen which I feel merits your attention. Some
months ago, Jack Anderson published a scurrilous article about Ambassador
Shelton. It wasn't a collection of half truths, every allegation was
false and was proven so. Some months later another article, written
by some other author, appeared in a Washington paper. It was apparent
that these stories were planted for the purpose of destroying Ambassador
Shelton, who had done such a good job in working with the President of
Nicaragua who is truly a friend of the United States.
Last April I spoke to Secretary Kissinger in behalf of Ambassador
Shelton to the end that he would not be removed. Secretary Kissinger
told me that due to their regular practice, Ambassador Shelton was
about to be rotated out of Nicaragua. We talked about these smear
articles and I asked Secretary Kissinger if Ambassador Shelton could be
assigned to a new post in such a manner that it would be a repudiation
of these charges Secretary Kissinger said to me, "This we can do and
this we will do."
Realizing that the Secretary is a very busy man, I relayed this
commitment that he made to me in behalf of Ambassador Shelton to Mr.
Eagleburger and Mr. Ingersoll of the State Department. I have kept
in touch with them. I immediately informed them of the Secretary's
commitment to me.
Notwithstanding the foregoing facts, the lower bureaucracy of the
State Department has moved in the opposite direction, causing the White
House document to state that Ambassador Shelton was leaving the Foreign
Service. Another official of the State Department denied to Ambassador
Shelton the right to come to Washington and talk the situation over. He
told him there was nothing to talk over and they had nothing for him.
GERALD FORD LIBRARY
The Honorable Cerald Ford
Page 2
June 26, 1975
Inasmuch as the appointment of ambassadors is a Presidential
responsibility, I felt that I must relay these facts to you.
Ambassador Shelton is in a position to serve the United States
well. His experience and training make him valuable. There are many
spots that will need to be filled. He has had experience in some tough
negotiations with the Communists in one of his earlier assignments. He
is highly dedicated to the ideals of the United States. He is intensely
loyal to you as the President of the United States. I urge that he be
offered a suitable post.
With kindest personal regards, I am
Respectfully Caltlints yours,
CARL' T. CURTIS, USS
CTC:cam
GERATO R. FORD ART LIBRARY
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
call soil Brooks
225-6565
6565
EALS 16 R FORD LIBRARY
June -0, 1975
Dear Senstor:
Thank you for your letter to the President
concerning Ambresador Turner Shelion,
14 know the President will approciate your
providing him with as outline of the situation
and 1 shall make certain be receives your
letter without delay.
With kindest regards,
Sincerely,
William T. Kandall
Deputy Assistant
to the President
The Honorable Carl T. Curtis
United States Senate
Washington, D.C. C. 20510
bcc: w/incoming to Douglas Bennett for further action,
bee: w/incoming to General Scoweroft - for appropriate handling.
bee: w/incoming to Patrick O'Dennell - for your information.
bcc: w/incoming to Max Friedersdorf - for your information.
WTK:EF:VO:ve
FORD is LIBRARY GERALD
CARL CURTIS
COMMITTEES:
AGRICULTURE AND FORESTRY
NEBRASKA
FINANCE
JOINT COMMITTEE ON INTERNAL REVENUE
TAXATION
United States Senate
SELECT COMMITTEE ON STANDARDS AND
CONDUCT
CHAIRMAN OF REPUBLICAN CONFERENCE
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20510
June 27, 1975
The Honorable Gerald Ford
President of the United States
The White House
Washington, D. C. 20500
My dear Mr. President:
I am writing to you in behalf of Mr. Turner Shelton, who at
present is our Ambassador to Nicaragua. Ambassador Shelton is a
É
fine man, he is dedicated to our country and he has done a very good
job in Nicaragua.
A situation has arisen which I feel merits your attention. Some
months ago, Jack Anderson published a scurrilous article about Ambassador
Shelton. It wasn't a collection of half truths, every allegation was
false and was proven so. Some months later another article, written
by some other author, appeared in a Washington paper. It was apparent
that these stories were planted for the purpose of destroying Ambassador
Shelton, who had done such a good job in working with the President of
Nicaragua who is truly a friend of the United States.
Last April I spoke to Secretary Kissinger in behalf of Ambassador
Shelton to the end that he would not be removed. Secretary Kissinger
told me that due to their regular practice, Ambassador Shelton was
about to be rotated out of Nicaragua. We talked about these smear
articles and I asked Secretary Kissinger if Ambassador Shelton could be
assigned to a new post in such a manner that it would be a repudiation
of these charges. Secretary Kissinger said to me, "This we can do and
this we will do."
Realizing that the Secretary is a very busy man, I relayed this
commitment that he made to me in behalf of Ambassador Shelton to Mr.
Eagleburger and Mr. Ingersoll of the State Department. I have kept
in touch with them. I immediately informed them of the Secretary's
commitment to me.
Notwithstanding the foregoing facts, the lower bureaucracy of the
State Department has moved in the opposite direction, causing the White
House document to state that Ambassador Shelton was leaving the Foreign
Service. Another official of the State Department denied to Ambassador
Shelton the right to come to Washington and talk the situation over. He
told him there was nothing to talk over and they had nothing for him.
BERALD FORD LIBRARY
The Honorable Gerald Ford
Page 2
June 26, 1975
Inasmuch as the appointment of ambassadors is a Presidential
responsibility, I felt that I must relay these facts to you.
Ambassador Shelton is in a position to serve the United States
well. His experience and training make him valuable. There are many
spots that will need to be filled. He has had experience in some tough
negotiations with the Communists in one of his earlier assignments. He
is highly dedicated to the ideals of the United States. He is intensely
loyal to you as the President of the United States. I urge that he be
offered a suitable post.
With kindest personal regards, I am
Respectfully Call Cuits yours,
CARL T. CURTIS, USS
CTC:cam
GERALD FORD FIBRAUT
Some items in this folder were not digitized because it contains copyrighted
materials. Please contact the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library for access to
these materials.
x
CARL T. CURTIS
COMMITTEES:
NEBRASKA
AGRICULTURE AND FORESTRY
FINANCE
JOINT COMMITTEE ON INTERNAL REVENUE
TAXATION
United States Senate
SELECT COMMITTEE ON STANDARDS AND
CONDUCT
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20510
CHAIRMAN OF REPUBLICAN CONFERENCE
June 27, 1975
The Honorable Gerald Ford
President of the United States
The White House
Washington, D. C. 20500
My dear Mr. President:
I am writing to you in behalf of Mr. Turner Shelton, who at
E
present is our Ambassador to Nicaragua. Ambassador Shelton is a
fine man, he is dedicated to our country and he has done a very good
job in Nicaragua.
A situation has arisen which I feel merits your attention. Some
months ago, Jack Anderson published a scurrilous article about Ambassador
Shelton. It wasn't a collection of half truths, every allegation was
false and was proven SO. Some months later another article, written
by some other author, appeared in a Washington paper. It was apparent
that these stories were planted for the purpose of destroying Ambassador
Shelton, who had done such a good job in working with the President of
Nicaragua who is truly a friend of the United States.
Last April I spoke to Secretary Kissinger in behalf of Ambassador
Shelton to the end that he would not be removed. Secretary Kissinger
told me that due to their regular practice, Ambassador Shelton was
about to be rotated out of Nicaragua. We talked about these smear
articles and I asked Secretary Kissinger if Ambassador Shelton could be
assigned to a new post in such a manner that it would be a repudiation
UI
of these charges. Secretary Kissinger said to me, "This we can do and
this we will do."
Realizing that the Secretary is a very busy man, I relayed this
commitment that he made to me in behalf of Ambassador Shelton to Mr.
Eagleburger and Mr. Ingersoll of the State Department. I have kept
in touch with them. I immediately informed them of the Secretary's
commitment to me.
Notwithstanding the foregoing facts, the lower bureaucracy of the
State Department has moved in the opposite direction, causing the White
House document to state that Ambassador Shelton was leaving the Foreign
Service. Another official of the State Department denied to Ambassador
Shelton the right to come to Washington and talk the situation over. He
told him there was nothing to talk over and they had nothing for him.
FORD i GERALD LIBRARY
The Honorable Gerald Ford
Page 2
June 26, 1975
Inasmuch as the appointment of ambassadors is a Presidential
responsibility, I felt that I must relay these facts to you.
Ambassador Shelton is in a position to serve the United States
well. His experience and training make him valuable. There are many
spots that will need to be filled. He has had experience in some tough
negotiations with the Communists in one of his earlier assignments. He
is highly dedicated to the ideals of the United States. He is intensely
loyal to you as the President of the United States. I urge that he be
offered a suitable post.
With kindest personal regards, I am
Respectfully Call Cuits yours
CARL T. CURTIS, USS
CTC:cam
GERALD FORD LIBRARY
SUBJECT:
Nicaraguan Ambassadorship
Our ambassador to Nicaragua since August 5, 1970 has been Mr.
Turner Shelton (a brief bio attached at Exhibit A). Mr. Shelton's
current political support apparently is Senator Curtis and Congressman
Sikes. Mr. Sheldon has been an object of several critical press
comments. See attached copies of Jack Anderson articles at
Exhibit B.
Mr. Shelton is a Foreign Service Officer and was about to be "selected
out" at the time he was selected ambassador. The State Department
badays
is very much against giving him a significant assignment but would
reluctantly be willing to give him something to do through the date
pelief.
of his 60th birthday in December 1975. As of that date, pursuant
to State Department rules, he will be required to retire as a Foreign
Service Officer.
The President nominated Mr. James Theberge on May 30, 1975, to succeed
Mr. Shelton (see press release at Exhibit C). Mr. Theberge was
supported by Senator Brock (see Exhibit D). However, the primary
reason for his candidacy is that he is a young, moderate to conservative,
Latin American expert. It is hoped that his nomination would add a
strong Republican to the ranks of the foreign policy establishment.
FORD :- GERALD LIBRARY
TURNER SHELTON
Ambassador to Nicaragua
Born: 12/13/15 in Virginia
Legal Residence: Beverly Hills, California
Marital Status: Married; wife, former Lesly Starr
Education: Liberal Arts, 1934 - University of Virginia
Physical Science, 1935 - University of Richmond
Language Ability: French
Experience: Government (1942-1945)
Chief Clerk, Treasury Department; advertising
specialist, War Bonds Division
Non-Government (1935-1951)
Motion Picture Producer and Executive, Hollywood
Government (1953-1961)
Production Advisor, United States Information Agency.
Deputy Director, Assistant Director, Director, Interna-
tional Motion Picture Service
1961-62
Special Assistant, Bureau of European Affairs
1962-1964
Counselor of Legation, Budapest
1964.
Special Assistant to the Assistant Secretary of State for
Public Affairs
1966-70
Principle Officer, Nassau
1970-75 Ambassador to Nicaragua
BERALD FORD LIBRARY
file
The Washington Merry-Go-Round
THE WASHINGTON POST Thursday, March 20, 1975 F25
U.S. Envoy to Nicaragua Criticized
By Jack Anderson
But at the slightest hint of
One came to Managua just be-
Her chief concern during the
and Les Whitten
criticism, Shelton would whip
fore Christmas, 1972. A terrible
earthquake was for her pet cat
out personal letters from Presi-
earthquake leveled the city,
Later the cat became sick, thus
The worst ambassador in the
dent Nixon as a testament to his
killed 10,000 people and injured
precipitating a national crisis. A
U.S. diplomatic service, in our
White House connections. Often
another 15,000.
solicitous Somoza sent a host of
judgment, is Turner B. Shelton.
the ambassador and his wife,
Not a hospital was left stand.
vets, including government vets
He presides, in Ugly American
Lesly, would fly to Florida, com-
ing. But miraculously, the am-
from the Ministry of Agricul-
File
The Washington Merry-Go-Round
THE WASHINGTON POST
Mond March 31, 1975
D11
Rebuke, Denied by Envoy, Is Quoted
By Jack Anderson
door toilets,
ments is extremely dubious and
Secretary Charles Meyer and
For such actions, we wrote,
in many cases almost impossi-
approved by Deputy Under See:
and Les Whitten
Shelton was rebuked by the
ble. It has exposed U.S. embassy
retary William Macomber.
A few days ago, we nominated
State Department. Our associ-
personnel to sun, heat, dust and
"I havemade a careful review
urner B. Shelton, the Ameri-
ate, Joe Spear, telephoned him
high winds and obviously this
of all aspects of the situation,
an ambassador to Nicaragua,
in Managua to seek his com-
situation cannot be allowed to
cabled Meyer, "especially be:
$ the worst in the U.S. diplo-
ments. The ambassador cor-
continue."
cause of your contention that
catie service.
dially denied everything. Then
His own spacious, air-condi-
support from here has been de
We described him as one of
his wife grabbed the phone and
tioned residence of course,
ficient
ise last survivors of the Ugly
told us off in less cordial lan-
stood virtually empty. Yet Shel-
Your comments regarding
meriean era, living in splen-
guage.
ton- declared he was going to
the harsh conditions of sun:
or in an enormous hilltop man-
Since we had carefully pinned
lease the La Cuesta country
heat, dust and humidity, which
..
FOR IMMEDIATE R ELEASE
May 30, 1975
Office of the White House Press Secretary
THE WHITE HOUSE
The President today announced his intention to nominate James D.
Theberge, of the District of Columbia, to be Ambassador to Nicaragua.
He will succeed Turner B. Shelton who is resigning from the Foreign
Service.
Since 1970, Mr. Theberge has been serving as Director of Latin
American Studies, Center for Strategic and International Studies,
Georgetown University. From 1969 to 1970 he was an Instructor of
Economics, Oxford University, Oxford, England. He was an Economist
with the Inter-American Development Bank of Washington, D.C. from
1966 to 1969. In 1961 to 1964 and 1965 to 1966 he was an International
Relations Officer and Program Economist, Agency for International
Development, in Washington, D.C. and Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Mr. Theberge was born on December 28, 1930, in New York, New York.
He received his B.A. degree in 1952 from Columbia University. He
received a B.A. (honorary) in 1956 from Oxford University; an M.A.
degree in 1960 from Oxford University; an M.P.A. degree in 1965 from.
Harvard University. He also attended Heidelberg University during
1957 to 1958.
Mr. Theberge is married to the former Griselda Fages.
####
LIBRARY GERALD A. FORD
BANKING. HOUSING AND
URBAN AFFAIRS
GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON AGING
United States Senate
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20310
March 27, 1975
The Honorable Gerald R. Ford
President of the United States
The White House
Washington, D.C. 20500
Dear Mr. President:
3"
I understand that James D. Theberge is under consideration
for the position as United States Ambassador to Nicaragua.
In my opinion, Jim is qualified to serve in this capacity.
I have known Jim Theberge for several years on a social
basis and during the past year, Jim, Senator Nunn and I
have been hosting a series of Senatorial luncheons for
distinguished Western Hemispheric leaders. Jim Theberge
has actually been handling the guests and after observing
him with the various Western Hemispheric Ambassadors,
Ministers and other prominent persons, I am convinced
that he would be a great credit to the diplomatic corps.
As I am sure you know from his credentials, Jim Theberge
is very knowledgeable in Latin American Affairs. He is
presently Director of Latin American Studies at the Center
for Strategic and International Studies, Georgetown Uni-
versity. Jim Theberge is also directing the Latin American
Project for the Rockefeller Commission on Critical Choices.
Prior to his appointment to the Center, he was at the Latin
American Centre at Oxford and before that he was an advisor
to the President of the Inter-American Development Bank.
Jim Theberge also served for six years as a Foreign Service
Reserve Officer and during part of that time served under
one of our most distinguished Ambassadors, Robert McClintock,
in Argentina.
In sum, Mr. President, I think James Theberge is well qualified
for the position and would make a fine Ambassador.
Very truly yours,
BILL BROCK
BB:gge
FORD & BERALD LIBRARY
PRESIDENTIAL DOCUMENTS: GERALD R. FORD, 1975
569
the funds I recommended for immediate and temporary
tion, wildlife preservation, and related educational and
employment through the public sector and summer youth
scientific activities. The 3,600 acres were reported by the
jobs. Since student summer vacations are close at hand,
Department of Agriculture to the General Services Ad-
I urge the Congress to pass such a bill as quickly as
ministration to be excess to the needs of the Beltsville
possible.
Agricultural Research Center.
GERALD R. FORD
Among the 28,000 acres of contiguous federally owned
The White House,
properties lying along the Baltimore-Washington corri-
May 28, 1975.
dor, there are now some 3,300 acres devoted to conserva-
NOTE: The text of the message was released in Washington and
tion and wildlife preservation and several thousand addi-
Brussels, Belgium.
tional acres which are in an essentially natural state and,
although used for other primary purposes, are neverthe-
less devoted secondarily to compatible conservation and
wildlife preservation purposes. The availability of the
Federal Energy Administration
additional 3,600 acres now provides an opportunity to
further enhance the environment of the National Capital
Announcement of Intention To Nominate
region.
Eric R. Zausner To Be Deputy Administrator.
The 3,300 acre Patuxent Wildlife Research Center is
May 30, 1975
contiguous to the 3,600 acres which are excess to the
The President today announced his intention to nomi-
Agricultural Research Center needs. Its purpose includes
nate Eric R. Zausner, of McLean, Va., to Inc Deputy Ad-
research on endangered species and pesticides. Approxi-
ministrator of the Federal Energy Administration. This
mately 900 acres of the excess land will be made available
is a new position created by Public Law 93-275 of
to the Center to carry on its research and eventually to add
May 7, 1974.
other facilities for conservation and nature study, includ-
Since December 1973, Mr. Zausner has served as As-
ing trails through selected areas in order that wildlife in
sistant Administrator for Policy and Analysis and was
its natural habitat can be viewed and studied. A visitors
appointed by Frank Zarb, Administrator of the Federal
center at the Wildlife Research Center will be provided in
Energy Administration, as Acting Deputy Administrator
time for Bicentennial use in 1976.
of FEA in December 1974. Hc was Deputy Assistant Sec-
The President has directed the Secretary of the In-
retary of the Department of the Interior from July 1973
terior to prepare a long-range plan for the development
until the office was transferred in December 1973 to FEA.
of the recreation, conservation, wildlife preservation, and
From August 1970 until July 1973, he was a senior staff
related educational and scientific activities potential of
member of the Council on Environmental Quality. He
the remaining 2,700 excess acres.
joined what was then called the United States Public
The lands being rededicated are the second largest par-
Health Service as a financial analyst in 1968. He became
cel to be made available for recreational purposes under
Chief of the Management Section of the Bureau of Solid
the Legacy of Parks program.
Waste Management, which was later transferred to the
FORD
Environmental Protection Agency, serving until July
1970.
Mr. Zausner was born on August 6, 1944, in New York,
United States Ambassador to Nicaragua
LIBRARY
N.Y., and received his B.S. degree from Lehigh Uni-
versity in 1966. During 1967, he was a financial analyst
Announcement of Intention To Nominate
with W. R. Grace, Inc. He received his M.B.A. degree
James D. Theberge. May 30, 1975
from the University of Pennsylvania in 1968.
Mr. Zausner is married to the former Marjorie H.
The President today announced his intention to nomi-
Mackie.
nate James D. Theberge, of the District of Columbia, to
be Ambassador to Nicaragua. He will succeed Turner B.
Shelton, who is resigning from the Foreign Service.
Since 1970, Mr. Theberge has been serving as director
Legacy of Parks Program
of Latin American studies, Center for Strategic and Inter-
national Studies, Gcorgetown University. From 1969 to
Announcement of Designation of Federally Owned
1970, he was an instructor of economics, Oxford Univer-
Land at Beltsville, Maryland, for Recreational
sity, Oxford, England. He was an cconomist with the
Purposes. May 30, 1975
Inter-American Development Bank of Washington, D.C.,
from 1966 to 1969. From 1961 to 1964 and 1965 to 1966
The President announced today that he is designating
he was an International Relations Officer and Program
approximately 3.600 acres of federally owne I Land at
Economist, Agency for International Development, in
Beltsville, Md., to be set aside for recreation, conserva-
Washington, D.C., and Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Volume 11-Number 22
570
PRESIDENTIAL DOCUMENTS: GERALD R. FORD, 1975
Mr. Theberge was born on December 28, 1930, in New
by this issue but which are not carried elsewhere in t
York. N.Y. He received his B.A. degree in 1952 from
issue.
Columbia University. He received a B.A. (honorary) in
May 24
1956 from Oxford University, an M.A. degree in 1960
from Oxford University, and an M.P.A. degree in 1965
The President has accepted the resignations of Blair
from Harvard University. He also attended Heidelberg
Kolasa, Earle G. Wheeler, and D. C. Burnham as met
University during 1957 to 1958.
bers of the President's Commission on White Hot
Mr. Theberge is married to the former Griselda Fages.
Fellowships.
The President has accepted the resignations of Ti
Babcock and Berkins Bass as members of the Nation
Advisory Committee on Oceans and Atmosphere.
Presidential Clemency Board
The President has accepted the resignation of James'
Lynn, Director of the Office of Management and Budge
Announcement of Appointment of Eight Members of
as a member of the President's Commission on Personn
the Board. May 30, 1975
Interchange.
The President has appointed eight persons as members
The President has announced the designation
of the Presidential Clemency Board. The enlargement of
Charles A. Schmitz as the U.S. Deputy Representati
the Board was authorized by the President in an Execu-
for Micronesian Status Negotiations, effective May 2
tive order May 7, 1975, which permits him to appoint
1975.
such additional members to the Board as he shall from
May 26
time to time determine to be necessary to carry out its
The President met at the White House with the Eo
functions.
The additional members are:
nomic Policy Board.
TIMOTHY L. CRAIG, of Alexandria, Va., president, National Asso-
The President has accepted the following resignation:
ciation of Concerned Veterans.
DAVID D. DowD, JR., as a member of the Commission on the Revie
JOHN A. EVERHARD, of Vienna, Va., retired Air Force colonel,
of the National Policy Toward Gambling, effective today.
formerly Chief, Administrative Law Division, Office of the
Judge Advocate General, USAF.
MARY J. KYLE as a member of the Citizens' Advisory Council
(
ANTOINETTE FORD, of the District of Columbia, consultant, formerly
the Status of Women, effective today.
White House Fellow in office of the Secretary of the Treasury
REPRESENTATIVE THOMAS S. FOLEY as a member of the Ad H
under George Shultz and John Connally, formerly member of
Advisory Group on Puerto Rico, effective today.
Washington City Council.
MSGR. FRANCIS J. LALLY, of Rosindale, Mass., secretary of the
The President met with Attorney General Levi an
Department of Social Development and World Peace.
Administration officials to discuss plans for the President
E. FREDERIC MORROW, of New York, N.Y., director, Institute for
Urban and Minority Education, Educational Testing Service,
message to Congress on crime.
Princeton, N.J.
LEWIS PULLER, of Alexandria, Va., staff attorney with the Board.
May 27
HARRY RIGGS, of Plainview, Tex., retired Army colonel, long
The President announced the appointment of Secretar
experience at national headquarters of the Selective Service
System, active in Reserve Officers Association, American Legion,
of Commerce Rogers C. B. Morton as a member of th
and American Security Council.
National Commission on Productivity and Work Quality
JOAN VINSON, of Alexandria, Va., founding national coordinator,
National League of Families of American POWs/MIAs, Di-
The President announced his intention to nominat
rector of Public Affairs for the Board.
Wallace F. Bennett, of Salt Lake City, Utah, to be
The Clemency Board is required to submit its final
member of the Board of Directors of the Overseas Privat
recommendations to the President by December 31, 1976.
Investment Corporation for a term expiring December 17
1977.
The President has accepted the resignation of John
D. J. Moore as U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Ire
Digest of Other
land, effective June 30, 1975.
The President met at the White House with Lt. Comdr
White House Announcements
Steven Todd who is being reassigned after 2 years servic
as Naval Aide to the President.
Following is a listing of items of general interest which
Administrator Richard W. Velde and staff members 0
were announced to the press during the period covered
the Law Enforcement Assistance Administration met with
FORD
GERALD
Volume 11-Number 22
LIBRARY
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SEPTEMBER 26, 1970
Office of the White House Press Secretary
THE WHITE HOUSE
IURNER
TURNER B. SHELTON NOMINATED
UNITED STATES AMBASSADOR TO NICARAGUA
The President today announced his intention to nominate Mr. Turner B.
Shelton of Beverly Hills, California, as Ambassador to Nicaragua. A career
Foreign Service Officer, Mr. Shelton is currently serving as Principal
Officer of the U.S. Consulate General in Nassau, Bahama Islands.
Born in Virginia on December 13, 1915, Mr. Shelton studied at the University
of Virginia and the University of Richmond. Subsequently, he worked in the
motion picture industry. He began his government service in the Treasury
Department in 1942, working as an advertising specialist in the War Bonds
Division for three years. In 1945, he returned to private industry as a
motion picture producer and executive, which led, in 1951, to his attachment
to the Department of State as a consultant.
In 1953, Mr. Shelton joined the United States Information Agency, serving
consecutively as production advisor, Deputy Director, Assistant Director and
Director of that Agency's International Motion Picture Service. During this
period, he was also one of the principal negotiators of the US-USSR-Cultural
Exchange Agreement.
Upon his transfer to the Department of State in 1961, Mr. Shelton was appointed
as a Foreign Service Officer and became Special Assistant to the Bureau of
European Affairs. In 1962, he was named Counselor of Legation in Budapest,
Hungary.
Mr. Shelton returned to Washington in 1964 and served for two years as the
Special Assistant to the Assistant Secretary of State for Public Affairs. In
1966, he was named to his present position as Principal Officer of the
Consulate General in the Bahama Islands.
Mr. Shelton is married to the former Lesly Starr.
# # #
FORD & QERALD LIBRARY
Ag
EXECUTIVE
JUN 4- 1975
FOR/COIILA
JUN5-1975
Dear Mr. Ambassador:
It is with special gratitude for your
contribution to the conduct of our foreign
policy that I accept your resignation as
Ambassador to Nicaragua, effective upon
a date to be determined.
During your service as Ambassador you
have carried out your responsibilities with
dedication and purpose. I want to take this
opportunity to express my appreciation for
your efforts on behalf of this Administration
and our Nation.
You have my best wishes for every continued
success and happiness in the years shend.
Sincerely,
GERALD R. FORD
The Henorable Turner B. Shelton
American Ambassador
Managua ECI Amelia Leukhardt (not 6/5/75)
GRF:State: JHH:RLE:jfc
FORD d LIBRAR
No nead 65c for announcement successor
Resigning as amb to nicaragua
Orig.ly to Mr.-Dam, State, R 1828: 6/5/75 Day
75.06050000
June 5, 1975
Dear Mr. Secretary:
Respectfully referred for the files
of the Department of State.
Robert D. Linder
Chief Executive Clerk
Transmitting a copy of the following:
US Ambassador to Nicaragua,
DJM
Ltr of resignation, 8/9/74, from Turner B. Shelton, eff. POP; acc. 6/1/75,
eff. upon. a date to be determined.
(Sent to State, Attn: Mrs. Renn, Rm. 1828, D.C. 20520)
djm
FORD 07VH30 LIBRAR
Signih
6-4-75
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
May 29, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR:
THE PRESIDENT
THROUGH:
DONALD RUMSFELD
FROM:
WILLIAM N. WALKER the
SUBJECT:
Letter of Resignation.
Attached for your signature is a letter accepting the resignation
of Turner B. Shelton as Ambassador to Nicaragua.
Recelm Records affer 6/5/75
was uned 5/30/75 and
No need for announement -Sucesson (Theberge) nominated 6/2/75
Ltr dated 6/4/75
To State Dept., Rm 1828, c/o hyro. Renn, 6/5/75
FORD i GERALD LIBRARY
THE SECRETARY OF STATE
WASHINGTON
LIMITED OFFICIAL USE
May 9, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR: THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
HENRY A. KISSINGER
SUBJECT:
Resignation of Turner B. Shelton
as Ambassador to Nicaragua
I attach herewith the resignation of Turner B.
Shelton as Ambassador to Nicaragua together with a
suggested letter of acceptance for your approval.
Attachments:
1. Letter of Resignation.
2. Suggested Letter of Acceptance.
LIMITED OFFICIAL USE
BERALD FORD LIBRARY
EMBASSY OF THE
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Managua, Nicaragua
August 9, 1974
The President
The White House
Washington, D.C.
Dear Mr. President:
In keeping with the established custom, I hereby tender my
resignation as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary
of the United States of America to Nicaragua, to become
effective at your pleasure.
Allow me, Mr. President, to express to you my highest esteem.
Respectfully,
Turner B. Shelton
FORD : GERALD LIBRARY
FOR IMMEDIATI ELEASE
May 30, 1975
Office of the White House Press Secretary
THE WHITE HOUSE
The President today announced his intention to nominate James D.
Theberge, of the District of Columbia, to be Ambassador to Nicaragua.
He will succeed Turner B. Shelton who is resigning from the Foreign
Service.
Since 1970, Mr. Theberge has been serving as Director of Latin
American Studies, Center for Strategic and International Studies,
Georgetown University. From 1969 to 1970 he was an Instructor of
Economics, Oxford University, Oxford, England. He was an Economist
with the Inter-American Development Bank of Washington, D.C. from
1966 to 1969. In 1961 to 1964 and 1965 to 1966 he was an International
Relations Officer and Program Economist, Agency for International
Development, in Washington, D.C. and Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Mr. Theberge was born on December 28, 1930, in New York, New York.
He received his B.A. degree in 1952 from Columbia University. He
received a .B.A. (honorary) in 1956 from Oxford University; an M.A.
degree in 1960 from Oxford University; an M.P.A. degree in 1965 from
Harvard University. He also attended Heidelberg University during
1957 to 1958.
Mr. Theberge is married to the former Griselda Fages.
####
FORD i LIBRARY
July 14, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR:
MAX FRIEDERSDORF
FROM:
JACK MARSH
I have some information for you on the Turner Sheldon matter,
which-we will have to run by the Hill.
The bottom line is that although they are not going to find another
Ambassadorial post for Sheldon, for reasons which I will mention
to you personally, Brent is of the view that they can get him a. spot
doing something else in the Department of State. Brenhalso
indicates that he believes that Carl Curtis understands the situation
and will be willing to go with this other suggestion.
JOM/dl
-
FORD i LIBRARY
July 11, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR: MAX FRIEDERSDORF
FROM:
JACK MARSH
I would appreciate your inquiring into the Sheldon matter I mentioned
to you. As you are aware, in addition to Carl Curtis, Jack Flynt
is a strong supporter of Sheldon and wants something done on his
behalf.
There is a time deadline on this I believe which requires some
action very shortly. I have discussed it with Brent. I think it
would also be a good idea if you could talk with him concerning
it.
Many thanks.
JOM/dl
FORD & LIBRARY GERALD
July 11, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR: BRENT SCOWCROFT
FROM:
JACK MARSH
As I mentioned to you on the phone, Congressmed Tack Flynt
of Georgia called to endorse Ambassador Sheldony Thom be
indicates wants to be reassigned in the Department of State.
We have talked earlier about this individual, and I wanted you
to be aware of Congressman Flynt's personal interest in him
with the hope that something can be done to give him another.
assignment.
Many thanks.
CC: Max Friedersdorf
JOM/dl
FORD is 93 LIBRARY
DEVELOPMENT
WASHINGTON
JM
Amtrica
OFFICE OF
THE ADMINISTRATOR
January 8, 1973
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
SUBJECT: Special Report on Emergency Relief for
the Managua Disaster
Just after midnight on December 23 an earthquake registering
6.5 on the Richter scale struck the city of Managua, Nicaragua. In
less than 30 seconds, some 36 blocks in the heart of the nation's
capital -- or half of the total city -- were practically leveled. Except
for a few damaged buildings still standing, what the initial and after
shocks left were 1, 200 square acres of rubble in the geometrically
exact center of the capital.
We will never know how many died or even how many were
injured in the earthquake; estimates of the number killed range between
1, 000 and 12, 000 and some 20, 000 more injured. We do know, however,
that the other losses were stäggering. Not only was the basic infra
structure of a modern city -- electricity, communications, water supply
and transport -- immediately knocked out, but 50, 000 homes were
totally destroyed and thousands more made uninhabitable, forcing the
survivors into the streets to fend for themselves.
The gigantic dimensions of what was lost soon began to emerge.
Gone was all of the physical plant of the national government; half the
public schools in the city; all of its hospitals and practically all of
the commercial services, markets and commodity stocks upon which
an urban society depends. A preliminary estimate places the immediate
losses at over $600 million. Additionally; "almost half of the nation's
GNP has been disrupted, more than half of the government's sources
of revenue has been lost, and 25 percent of the population is now
without the means to sustain even the minimum necessities of life.
BENEB FORD
The Government of Nicaragua is faced with these overwhclming needs
of its people at a time when basic institutions and services are badly
disrupted and when the budgetary resources at its disposal are greatly
diminished.
At your direction, I conferred with government leaders in
Nicaragua to determine what more could be done to help cope with
immediate problems and to assure the adequacy and effectiveness of
our help for a sister American republic in its time of tragic need.
Nicaragua's leaders are responding to the emergency, with courage
and a sense of national purpose. A National Committee for the
Emergency, bringing together all groups, has been constituted under
the able leadership of General Anastasio Somoza. Similar local
committees are cooperating throughout the country and services gradually
are being established in an orderly way to help the quarter of the
population in dire need. It is an immense undertaking for a country
the size of Nicaragua and it has just begun.
The immediate problems have been to reestablish medical services,
to assure the distribution of water and food, and to provide at least
temporary shelter for the hundreds of thousands of victims who fled from
Managua. Our help in each of these areas has provided the critical
margin which made it possible to prevent even greater suffering, and
probably disorder. American relief made it possible for Nicaragua's
people to meet their most urgent needs and to face the awesome tasks
ahead with renewed hope.
Action to meet the immediate problems is well underway.
At your direction, I supervised the organization of a mass feeding
program to assure food for the hungry throughout the country. An
estimated 350, 000 people fled the city after the quake to find food and
shelter with friends and relatives in the outlying areas of Managua and
in other towns and cities across the country. The problem is complicated
by a severe drought during this pasi crop season which adversely affects
the availability of food both for the earthquake victims and many other
people as well. The distribution of water to the survivors in Managua
was also immediately essential. The distribution system we devised
with the full cooperation of the Government is working throughout the
Republic. There were early problems, but I am satisfied that the
distribution of both food and water is now adequate and that the distri
bution system will continue to function wcli until it is no longer needed,
GERALD FORD
Nicaragua will need food assistance for the next ten months
until the harvest in September 1973. We have provided some 20 million
pounds of food, both delivered and underway, valued at $3 million
More will be needed -- both from U.S. and from others as well.
With respect to the shelter problem, we have sent to Nicaragua
4, 000 tents; enough to shelter 25, 000 people. But there is need for
more and better temporary shelters. Working jointly with the Nicaraguan
Government, we devised an emergency shelter program for immediate
construction of 15, 000 individual wood and metal structures to house an
additional 75, 000 refugees and to permit essential workers to return
to Managua. We authorized $3 million in A. I. D. funds for this purpose.
Our prompt action to launch this emergency construction, which should
be completed in the next 30 days, was a source of great encouragement
to the government and people:
In the field of emergency health measures, we have taken steps
which have brought the situation under control, including the donation
of two U.S. army field hospitals which were brought in the day after
the tragedy; the two facilities, which total 124 beds plus all related
equipment to operate a modern hospital, are now fully staffed by
Nicaraguan doctors and nurses -- and are providing basic medical
services for the city of Managua.
These measures taken jointly with General Somoza and his
emergency committee mean that they have turned the corner on the
most critical needs of medical assistance, food and water, and, finally
in the coming weeks, shelter.
We have committed $10. 6 million to date for emergency relief.
It constitutes a critical contribution to people who have long been friendly
and who found themselves in the most urgent need of their history. There
will be additional emergency help needed from us over the next 10 months,
but,it will be insignificant compared with the efforts that will be required
of the Nicaraguan nation.
In particular, emergency measures are needed to help replace
at least part of the $50 million equivalent lost to the Government in
12x revenues because of the disruption of the economy and commercial
activity in Managual General Somoza is most anxious to launch
public works programs to begin rebuilding and provide jobs for the
over 52, 000 who lost their means of livelihood. We have agreed to
help the Government design works projects to provide for emergency
FORD
all 30
distribution they saw to the repair of the municipal supply system.
and the partial restoration of service. Power and communications
are being restored quickly both within the city and with the outside
world in large part because American experts who knew how to do
it were rushed in. It was largely the officers at our Mission,
operating out of tents and the Ambassador's residence because the
Embassy itself was destroyed, who helped to organize the first
crude feeding programs and the provision of emergency shelter.
In particular, Ambassador Shelton is deserving of special
commendation. Throughout the emergency he performed with
exceptional skill and courage a task that would test great generals.
Nicaragua and we are fortunate that he was there when the challenge
came.
Amains /biliams
Maurice J. Williams
President's Special Coordinator for
Emergency Relief to Nicaragua
Attachment: Total relief assistance to date.
FORD : QERALD LIBRA
-4-
employment for displaced workers. A.I.D. is fielding a senior,
experienced team to assist in this effort.
Reconstruction itself poses a number of difficult problems,
since it is being considered whether or not the city should be rebuilt
s along different lines and with some relocation to lessen danger from the
possibility of further earthquakes. A team of U.S. geologists and
other experts are in Nicaragua working on studies which will provide
the technical basis for this decision. Further, there is need to
coordinate with other aid donors to redirect assistance projects under-
way to meet the current needs and to assess plans for reconstruction.
Resolution of these problems will take time -- but the situation in
Nicaragua today is urgent and does not permit the luxury of the normal
procedures of international consultation and attendant delays.
We are pressing for\early action on assessments, both technical
and economic, which will permit the Government of Nicaragua to plan
its programs of reconstruction and provide the basis for assistance in
this task from the U.S. and other aid donors. We anticipate that the
Organization of American States, the Inter-American Development
Bank and the IBRD will play important parts in the overall effort.
While issues of reconstruction are for future decision, you may
be interested in my judgment as to the overall quality of the American
Aid effort of the past two weeks. It is a pleasure to report that the
performance of Ambassador Turner B. Shelton and his staff during
the recovery was outstanding, even heroic. Tumbled from their
beds in the first shocks, lacking light and with only very rudimentary
communication, they were able to respond to the welfare and evacuation
of Americans and non-essential personnel, and, at the same time, to
beg, in io help meet the emergency needs of the Nicaraguans.
While many other nations and groups responded swiftly with
mercy flights and personnel, the American contribution was
critical in averting a compounding of the crisis. It was largely
U.S. Army personnel who organized the firs) emergency help and
set up the first medical facilities. U.S. Army sanitation experts
brought in water purification equipment when no pure water was
available over a period of days, and after arranging emergency
FORD
DISASTER RELIEF ASSISTANCE (PRELIMINARY DATA)
J. U.S. GOVERNMENT COMMITAIENTS
Military Supplies & Equipment
$2,137,355
Military Airlift
722,773
AND Emergency Housing
3,000,000
AID Procured Supplies
937,301
Commercial Transport
325,000
U.S. Contributions to OAS
25,000
Ongoing Cost Not Yet Reported
500,000
Food for Peace
2,994,000
TOTAL U.S. GOVERNMENT
$10,641,429
11. U.S. VOLUNTARY AGENCIES CONTRIBUTIONS
Catholic Relief Services
346,000
Church World Services
19,500
American Red Cross
251,440
Salvation Army
20,000
Seventh Day Adventists
29,750
Wisconsin Partners of the Americas
90,000
CARE
20,000
TOTAL U.S. VOLUNTARY AGENCIES
$ 776,690
GERALD FORD
III. INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES " OHIDA
Thirty one nations contributing through
National Red Cross Societies
$1,715,840
United Nations
120,000
Japan
400,000
Australia
29,000
3
France
250,000
Republic of China (Taiwan)
256,000
United Kingdom
46,000
OAS
225,000
TOTAL INTERNATIONAL AGEN CIES & OTHER NATIONS
$ 3,041,840
GRAND TOTAL ALL CONTRIBUTIONS
$14,459,959
1/8/73: Agency for International Development
FORD & GERALT LIBRARY
July 29, 1975
COMMIDENTIAL
MEMORANDUM FOR:
BRENT SCOWCROFT
FROM:
JACK MARSH
SUBJECT:
Ambassador Turner Sheldon
I need from you assistance and information on the Turner Sheldon
matter. In our last conversation, you indicated a resolution on
this matter in a way that was satisfactory to Sheldon and also
to Senator Curtis.
Congressman Jack Flynt is a close personal friend and strongly
supports Sheldon and has inquired about his situation. Our con-
tacts through McCloskey's office indicate an unawareness of any
arrangement for Sheldon which is a cause of concern to Max and
me. Jack Flynt is pressing very hard for an explanation and I
need information from you as to arrangements for Sheldon.
I would also appreciate your advising appropriate officials at
the Department of State as to plans for this individual in order
to be responsive to other inquiries.
CONFIDENTIAL
Determined JOM/dl to be an a king
Cancelled per E,O. 12356, Sec. 1.3 and
Archivist's memo of March 16, 1983
By
DND NARS date 1/17/86
FORD : LIBRARY GERALD
July 29, 1975
COMFIDENTIAL
MEMORANDUM FOR: BRENT SCOWCROFT
FROM:
JACK MARSH
SUBJECT:
Ambassador Turner Sheldon
I need from you assistance and information on the Turner Sheldon
matter. In our last conversation, you indicated a resolution on
this matter in a way that was satisfactory to Sheldon and also
to Senstor Curtis.
Congressman Jack Flyat is a close personal friend and strongly
supports Sheldon and has inquired about his situation. Our con-
tacts through McCloskey's office indicate an unawareness of any
arrangement for Sheldon which is a cause of concern to Max and
me. Jack Flyat is pressing very hard for an explasation and I
need information from you as to arrangements for Sheldon.
I would also appreciate your advising appropriate officials at
the Department of State as to plans for this individual in order
to be responsive to other inquiries.
CONFIDENTIAL
JOM/dl
Determined to be an administrative marking
Cancelled per E.O. 12356, Sec. 1.3 and
Archivist's memo of March 16, 1983
By
DAD NARA date 1/17/86
FORD i QERALD LIBRARY
August 4, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR: BRENT SCOWCROFT
FROM:
JACK MARSH
Congressmen Jack Flynt continues to press on the Shelden
matter. He has asked that 1 obtain a status report and call
him in Georgia.
Providing him this information as quickly as possible may
avert further long-range problems.
JOM/dl
FORD i GERATO LIBRARY