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Nixon Pardon - Correspondence

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The original documents are located in Box 2, folder "Nixon Pardon - Correspondence" of the Benton L. Becker Papers 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. Benton Becker donated to the United States of America his copyrights in all of his unpublished writings in National Archives collections.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 2 of the Benton Becker Papers at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library 420 East 64th Street New York, New York 10021 September 9, 1974 Benton L. Becker, Esq. Cramer Haber & Becker 475 L'Enfant Plaza, S. W. Washington, D. C. 20024 Dear Benton, I thought that you would enjoy this clipping from today's New York Times. Congratulations on your accomplishments to date. After seven years, my name may not ring a beH, but we worked together at the Justice Dept. in the Frauds Section. Very truly yours, alan Rothenberg public folder and began reading his unto Richard Nixon for all of Benton Becker, to decision, looking occasionally fenses against the United with Mr. Nixon and his law- questions, said that into the cameras, which were States which he, Richard Nix- yers. Mr. Becker, a friend of during his study of the matter filming the event for later show- on, has committed or taken both the President and Mr. had Mr. Ford talked to Mr. aspect of ing. He spokes of the difficulty part in during the period from Buchen, went to San Cle- Nixon and that the decision to Nixon's of the decision. Jan. 20, 1969, through Aug. 9 mente last week and advised go ahead with the pardon had he can "To procrastinate, to agonize 1974." Mr. Nixon that he probably been based on the belief that forced to and to wait for a more favor- Mr. Buchen later briefed re- would receive a pardon. Mr. "it was very likely" Mr. Mixon trial able turn of events that may porters on the events leading Nixon told Mr. Becker, either would have been indicted and aides never come," he said, "or more up to today's action. Sitting personally or through an aide, ordered to stand trial. of jus- compelling external pressures case. The that may as well be wrong as sub- right, is itself a decision of sorts President and a weak and potentially Lawyer, 36, Is Liaison for 2 Presidents to open dangerous course for a Presi- hav- dent to follow." Mr. Becker, while serving Inviob de- Of President Nixon and his By PHILIP SHABECOFF the Justice Department as an the Fifth family, Mr. Ford said: "Theirs Special to The New York Times Assistant Attorney Generaft) ed otects cit- is an American tragedy in imination. WASHINGTON, Sept. 8-Ben- worked on a criminal taseroll which we all have played a was part. It could go on and on ton L. Becker, the young law- against the late Adam Claytonyin today posi- yer who acted as intermediary Powell. the and on, or someone must write he 'The End' to it. I have concluded between President Ford and Mr. Becker, in private proofi as former President Richard M. tice, represented Joel Kline andriw idency on that only 1 can do that." He pointed out that there Nixon in the negotiations that Eric Baer, defendants in u about led to today's pardon announce- cent stock manipulation case. 201 was no historical or legal prece- ment was described by a for- Both men were convicted. 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. E. Blanche Pritchett, Ph.D. Route 4 Arlington, Washington 98223 (206) 435-3264 September 9, 1974 Benton Becker Cramer, Haber, and Becker 485 L'Enfante, Southwest Washington, D.C. 20024 Dear Benton Becker: Our telephone conversation, of this date, has tended to add enormous support to my personal considerations about your great service to our President, and to the citizens of our country. Regrettably, most people do not know - and do not know that they do not knowl The outburst of emotional reaction, at this time, tends to validate the ignorance of the masses. They do not know what a tremendous service has been performed for them by President Ford, and by you. As a voice crying out in the wilderness, I want you to know that your character, your comprehensibility, your integrity, and your devotion to your spiritual guidance are without flaw and are to be commended, I must ask you to be sensitive to the degree of gratitude being expressed herein, because in the face of such a magnitude of appreciation words, being weak things, cannot reach the height of expression. As spokesuoman for 533 registered voters in 25 states, I reiterate my message to the President, and wish him to know that we commend him for his great courage and support his action in taking the initiative, under spiritual guidance and direction, to pardon President Nixon, one of the greatest statesman this nation has ever hadl Benton Becker, I will be disseminating my opinions and philosophy very broadly over radio-talk-shows and in writing, and I will comply with your request to keep you informed. As I stated to you on the phone this morning, you are, indeed, an angel of mercy! I offer any service which you may request of me, at any time. I base this offer on what I consider to be my recognition of a Fraternity Brother Page 2 God bless you, beloved Benton Becker. With high esteem, I am, Faithfully yours, E. Bearche Pritchatt E Blanche Pritchett EBP:d GERALD R FORD AREA CODE 618 OFFICE PHONE 253-7727 OR 252-1234 J. D. BARTER CONSTRUCTION CO., INC. General Contractors LEVEE . AIRPORT - ROAD CONSTRUCTION HAULING TRAFFIC BOUND GRAVEL ROUTE 34 . SOUTH RURAL ROUTE 3 HARRISBURG, ILLINOIS 62946 September 9, 1974 Benton, I just had to take a minute to tell you how thrilled I was when I saw you on the newscast last evening. I am happy to know you had a part in this. I, for one, am proud of your friend and our president. Good luck! Very truly yours, Dorathy L. Jox Dorothy L. Fox GENALD A. FOMO 10 LIGHT STREET (17TH FLOOR) BALTIMORE, MARYLAND 21202 September 9, 1974 Benton L. Becker, Esquire Cramer, Habber & Becker Suite 4100 485 L'Fant Plaza, S.W. Washington, D.C. 20024 Dear Benton: I was painting my house on Sunday and listen- ing to the radio and heard your name as being the intermediary between the White House and San Clemente on the Nixon pardon. My congratulations. I hope that this means that your difficulties in D.C. are over, although someone showed me an article today from the Washington Post talking about a potential investigation by the reprobates here in Baltimore. I hope that this is not true and that your future is free from such difficulties. Again congratulations and my best to both you and Joanne. Very truly yours, Jay Schwartz JAS/las GERALD R. FORD LIBRANY MATTEL September 9, 1974 Mr. Benton Becker 475 L'Enfant Plaza Southwest Suite 4100 Washington D.C. 20024 Dear Benton: I was aroused from a blissful reverie late last night by my former wife, (you do remember Lois I'm sure), asking if I had my T.V. set on. It seems as though you made the late T.V. news. While reading the Los Angeles Times this morn- ing I came across the enclosed story and obvi- ously you have been quite busy. Perhaps, on one of your next trips to Southern California, if time permits, give me a call and let's get together I'll buy. The best, Joel Rubenstein Director, Marketing Public Relations JR/cb Enclosure: One newspaper clip GERALD A. FORD Mattel, Inc. General Offices, 5150 Rosecrans Avenue, Hawthorne, California 90250: Telephone (213) 644-0411 Cable: Mattelco YOUNG, TURNBULL & LINSCOTT, P.A. ATTORNEYS AND COUNSELORS AT LAW Post Office Box 112 V. KEITH YOUNG CITIZENS NATIONAL BANK BUILDING Your REFERENCE: WILLIAM S. TURNBULL ORLANDO, FLORIDA 32801 JERRY R. LINSCOTT TELEPHONE (305) 841-IIII IN REPLY REFER To: JEFFRY R. JONTZ ARTHUR R. LOUV STEPHEN A. WEINSTEIN JAMES R. MONROE September 10, 1974 Benton Becker, Esquire Cramer, Haber & Becker 485 L'Enfant Plaza, West, S. W. Washington, D. C. Dear Benton: Although I have not heard anything from you since the Insco reversal, I see that you have not been idle. I was interested to hear on CBS News on Sunday night that you had made the trip to San Clemente to make the arrangements for the Nixon pardon. It appears that our new President continues to rely heavily on the good counsel of your offices. Very truly yours, JRJ/lmh Martin Itzler, P.c. Law Offices 110 EAST 59TH STREET NEW YORK, NEW YORK 10022 TEL. (212) PL 2-8855 CABLE: "MARITZLAW" Sept 10th Benton- a forgotten name from the past on the news - and & thought you were destined to be the lead singer in a rock & roll band n something of equal dignity - - fallen idols so many years-turenty l gness Marty CIGNARD GERACO AMERICAN SOCIETY OF HOSPITAL PHARMACSTS AMERICAN SOCIETY OF HOSPITAL PHARMACISTS 4630 Montgomery Avenue / Washington, D. C. 20014 AREA CODE 301 (Betheada, Maryland) TELEPHONE 657-3000 September 10, 1974 Benton L. Becker, Esq. 485 L'Enfant Plaza W. S.W. Washington, D.C. Dear Benton: I have been following closely your participation in these historic and unprecedented events as they have unfolded over the past sev- eral days, and feel profoundly proud of your mission. I must say I have a feeling of high pride in being able to identify with you because of our relationship of some years ago. My family had always expected you to do something special and indeed you have not let us down. I only hope that in your intimate involvement with the President of the United States you can serve him well for the benefit of all the people in this country. The pressures and challenges of your responsibility are great, but I know that you can handle them well. Best regards. Nonian Very truly yours, Norman M. Hochman Controller NMH: cb FORD & The national specialty society of pharmacists practicing in hospitals and related institutions GERALD 24 HOUR PHONE: PO 3-8784 Robert H. Glazier 3401 SCHOOL LANE REAL ESTATE MAINTENANCE DREXEL HILL, PA. September 11, 1974 Mr. Benton L. Becker c/o Cramer, Haber, & Becker Attorneys At Law 485 L'Enfant Plaza, S. W. Suite 4100 Washington, D. C. 20024 Dear Mr. Becker: I would like to offer my sincerest congratulations on your success in the recent matter between Ex-President Nixon and President Ford. As you know from my previous letters, I have always had a very high regard for your ability. Enclosed are some newspaper clippings that you may want to use in the event Mrs. Becker is making a scrap book based on the accomplishments of her famous husband. I hope that you have the very best of luck in the future. Very sincerely yours, Robert H. Glazier RHG/e Encl: FUND TIBRATO AN EFFORT TO ASSIST UNDERSTANDING! by E. Blanche Pritchett, Ph.D. Arlington, Washington 98223 (Written September 12, 1974) On Sunday, September 8, 1974, Gerald R. Ford, the President of the United States, "took the bit between his teeth" and did what he had to do! There was no way that President Ford could have not done what he had to do! He went before the nation on television and he pronounced a pardon for former President Richard Nixon. He stated, as clearly as he could, the basis for and the conditions of that Presidential pardon. He was the only person who could have exercised that Presidential right! He was the only person who comprehends the circumstances that caused President Nixon to resign, even though you may have heard numbers of theories and opinions. President Ford knew what his liabilities were, and he knew that self-serving motives would have caused him not to do what he knew was the right thing to do! Yes, he knew! And he went forth, courageously, to bring some measure of balance to a situation that was badly tilted out of per- spective. For his sheer courage alone, he is to be respected and honored. The future will guarantee that the wisdom of his judgement was superb and timely! Of that, I am absolutely certain! Perhaps I am carried away with my own ability to understand; it is surely not conceit on my part when I can view the situation and evaluate the possibilities. I can offer a view of my own, which you may caption as "theory" but I will feel better for having said it publicly. For over two years now, I have been aware of the possibility that important state secrets were in danger by persons in position of trust in the Executive branch of our government. I seemed to know from the start that President Nixon could have done many things dif- ferently if it were not for his own built-in respect for national security. A President has to be aware of national security and has to guard and defend it if he is to live up to his oath of office. My view tells me that Richard Nixon withheld things to his own detriment, and ultimately to his own downfall. He did what he did because he believed it was what he should do. The extreme loyalty of his own subordinates shows a tremendous sense of loyalty and respect for con- fidences, and this example was set by the "Chief" himself! In being true to his own ideals, President Nixon withheld things that could have explained many things that would have caused members of the Con- gress to side with him. But he didn't take the risk. My view tells me that Dan Ellsberg, having once been a staff mem- ber of the National Security Council, had stolen "Top Secret" docu- ments and disseminated them to the press, and that this one act alone by a person in a "security position" would have been enough to give any truly responsible Chief Executive nightmares! President Nixon had to make decisions. His decisions had to be made in strict ac- cordance with his own concepts of the national interest. He had to find the leaks in the White House and he had to use any method that he could use. That should be an indisputable statement! He had to do what he could, and, as Chief Executive, he could do almost any- thing. He chose to keep his investigations confined to as few people as possible, and only highly trusted and proven people at that! He believed within his heart that he could defend his people and handle any contingency that may have arisen. His mistake was in not real- izing that any little thing would be blown all out of proportion due to the avowed Nixon-haters. In other words, he underestimated his enemy. That was a mistake, and it is a mistake to which he has re- ferred several times. He has never claimed infallibility! As to the pardon President Ford had almost one full month to view things from the exclusive position of the Chief Executive, FORD LIBRARY [please turn page] GERALD [thank you] then he knew! He knew that President Nixon was truly a pariah! He knew that President Nixon was defending this country's internal peace of mind by not talking about matters that he should not talk about. In seeing this whole thing so clearly, from the one place it could be viewed (the Presidency), Gerald R. Ford made the only just and right- eous decision that could have been made. But, like President Nixon, he cannot tell all of the reasons for his decision either! Any truly objective person can look at the facts of the whole situation that has been labeled "Watergate" and see that the efforts made by President Nixon had truly noble intents and purposes. Truly! If President Ford had not pardoned Richard Nixon, there was a possibility of an indictment by the Special Prosecutor! If Mr. Nixon took the stand under oath, he would have to tell things that could panic the citizens of the U.S. President Ford was keen enough to see all of these potential liabilities, and he made sure such a thing could not happen. He made sure that President Nixon would never be liable for perjury for withholding state secrets, etc.! Just imagine what damage an embittered President could do if he chose to, under the same circumstances in which Richard Nixon has found himself! Just imagine if his own top aides chose to talk! Richard Nixon had the same authority to grant pardons as Presi- dent Ford now has. He did not pardon his top aides even though he would dearly have loved to do so. He did not take unfair advantage of his position. He knew that if he did, his accusers would also use that against him. Richard Nixon was in an impossible position: no matter what he did, it would not turn out right! He chose the way he has gone so that he could live with his own conscience, but for that he has taken on the hatred and distrust of millions of people! He had to con- sciously make the decision to take on the apparency of villain, when in truth he is one of this nation's greatest-ever national heroes! Now, Richard Nixon is a man who is hurting, esthetically, emo- tionally, and physically! He is bearing his burden while he knows just how he could relieve himself of it, but that would mean that he would have to talk about untalkable things and his attitude is that he "would rather die first"! Now, President Ford, perhaps the only man who knows the great sacrifice made by Richard Nixon, is also bound not to talk and is be- ing pelted by the actual enemies of this land -- enemies who exist under the cover of citizenship while trying to overthrow the govern- ment. This is the biggest of all national enigmas! Where emotions rule, there is no charity in the hearts of the beasts who seek blood! There is only sadism and cruelty! And this is what is known as a "Christian Nation"! Let your heart tell you the truth! Never mind the scandalmon- gers! Without your ears, they starve! I have made a pledge to myself to speak of my own understanding, with a plea for others to look and understand as well. Won't you put yourself in the same position as these two topflight human beings of high caliber, and see the way it is? FORD LIBRARY GENALD U.S. Copyright © 1974 by E. Blanche Pritchett, Ph.D. September 13, 1974 Jay Schwarts, Esquire 10 Light Street Seventeenth Floor Baltimore, Maryland 21202 Dear Jay: It was thoughtful of you to take the time to write me this week. Hearing from old friends, particularly at times when everyone else seems to want to talk to you, is a very pleasant experience. I hope that you will give me a call some time so that we can get together in person. Sincerely, BENTON L. BECKER BLB:cdk FORD LIBRARY at GLHALD September 13, 1974 Alan Rothenberg, Esquire 420 East 64th Street New York, New York 10021 Dear Alan: I surely do recall working closely with you during our tenure at Justice and it was indeed thoughtful of you to write me at this time. Sincerely, BENTON L. BECKER BLB:cdk GEHALD LEBRARY R FORD September 13, 1974 Martin Itzler, Esquire 110 East 59th Street New York, New York 10022 Dear Marty: A voice from the past indeed. Others may be motivated in actions like this for personal self-glory or monetary interest. Let the record show that I did it for one purpose and one purpose eñone: TO IMPRESS JACKIE LAHN. BENTON L. BECKER BLB :cdk FORD R. CEMALO LIBRARY September 13, 1974 Mr. Norman M. Hochman Controller American Society of Hospital Pharmacits 4630 Montgomery Avenue Washington, D. C. 20014 Dear Norman: It was thoughtful of you to take the time to write me this week. Hearing from old friends, particularly at times when everyone else seems to want to talk to you, is a very pleasant experience. I hope that you will give me a call some time so that we can get together in pesson. Sincerely, BENTON L. BECKER BLB:cdk FORD OF LIGHARY GERALD September 13, 1974 Jeffry R. Jontz, Esquire Young, Turnbull & Linscott, P.A. Post Office Box 112 Orlando, Florida 32801 Dear Jeff: It was thoughtful of you to take time to write me this week. Hearing from old friends, particularly at times when everyone else seems to want to talk to you, is a very pleasant experience. I hope that if you are in Washington in the near future, you will find time to call so that we might get together in person. Sincerely, BENTON L. BECKER BLB:cdk GERALD P. FORD September 13, 1974 Dorothy L. Fox J. D. Barter Construction Co., Inc. Route 34 - South, Rural Route 3 Harrisburg, Illinois 62946 Dear Dorothy: It was thoughtful of you to take time to write me this week. Hearing from old friends, particularly at times when everyone else seems to want to talk to you, is a very pleasant experience. I hope that if you are ever in Washington, you will find time to call so that we might get together in person. Sincerely, BENTON L. BECKER BLB:cdk GERALD A. FORD LIBRARY JACK WATSON, CLU THE FRANKLIN LIFE VICE PRESIDENT - FIELD SERVICES INSURANCE COMPANY HOME OFFICE: SPRINGFIELD. ILLINOIS 62713. PHONE: 217 528-2011 September 17, 1974 Mr. Benton Becker 485 L'enfant Plaza Southwest Suite 4100 Washington, D. C. 20024 Congratulations, Benton on your key role in the Ford administration. As a good friend of your brother Wally, I have followed your assignment with keen interest and appreciate your personal importance. Wally long ago told me to watch out for his baby brother, and you certainly met his great expectations. Sorry I was away when you stopped by Springfield but hopefully we will meet some day. The Becker family is well supplied with talent because your father and Wally have distinguished themselves as exceptional life insurance professionals with Franklin Life. Wally sets new records in Sales Management. We are mighty proud of the Beckers. Sincerely, Jack & Watson Vice President JW. lgf GEAALE September 18, 1974 Mr. Robert Glazier 3401 School Lane Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania Dear Mr. Glazier: Thank you for your thoughtful letter regarding the pardoning of Former President Nixon. My secretary has dutifully maintained a clipping and correspondence file where your thoughtful communique will be housed. Someday, when I am old and gray, I imagine I will enjoy rereading and recapturing thoughts of the past weeks. Very sincerely, BENTON L. BECKER BLB:cdk GERALD R FORD LIBRARY September 18, 1974 Mr. Joel Rubenstein Mattel, Inc. 5150 Rosecrans Avenue Hawthorne, California 90250 Dear Joel: I am embarrassed and disturbed for having been responsible for an act which caused disturbance to your slumber. Yet, it was thoughtful of you to take the time to write me and renew an old and valued friendship. I was particularly intrigued with your invitation to buy drinks upon my next trip to California and recall- ing your spendthrift nature, I reported your offer to Wide World of Sports. If you plan to be in Washington any time in the future, please call as I would very much enjoy catching up on old times. Very sincerely, BENTON L. BECKER BLB:cdk FORD R. LIBRARY GERALD WKBD TV ch50 Detroit P O Box 359 Southfield Mi 48075 313/444 8500 September 19, 1974 Dear Mr. Becker: "The Lou Gordon Program" is a 90-minute program devoted to interviews and discussions of public interest. The program is seen on Kaiser stations serving Boston, Cleveland, Chicago, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, San Francisco and on other stations according to the attached schedule. On a recent program, the date and time of which is shown below, Mr. Gordon responded to a question submitted by a viewer. In his response, reference was made to you, and I am attaching a copy of that reference for your information. The Lou Gordon Program Broadcast date and time: Weekend of September 14-15, 1974 If you would like the opportunity to respond to these comments, please let me know so that we may make necessary arrangements. Sincerely, Vice President & General Manager LCH:jf Attach. Mr. Benton Becker Attorney at Law 485 L'Enfant Plaza S.W. Washington, DC 20024 GERALD AIIVHOIT & KAISER BROADCASTING COMPANY "THE LOU GORDON PROGRAM" AIR DATES KAISER BROADCASTING COMPANY STATIONS STATION SERVING DAY TIME WLVI TV Boston Sunday 10:30 PM WKBF TV Cleveland Sunday 10:30 PM KBSC TV Los Angeles Saturday/Sunday 10:00 PM WKBS TV Philadelphia Sunday 10:30 PM KBHK TV San Francisco Sunday 10:30 PM WFLD TV Chicago Sunday 9:30 PM OTHER STATIONS STATION SERVING DAY TIME WCIX TV Miami Monday 8:30 PM FORD A. LIBRARY GERALD NATIONAL ARCHIVES AND RECORDS ADMINISTRATION Presidential Libraries Withdrawal Sheet WITHDRAWAL ID 02623 REASON FOR WITHDRAWAL Donor restriction TYPE OF MATERIAL Letter CREATOR'S NAME John Futch RECEIVER'S NAME Benton Becker DESCRIPTION Personal matter. CREATION DATE 1974 COLLECTION/SERIES/FOLDER ID 023800018 COLLECTION TITLE Benton L. Becker Papers BOX NUMBER 2 FOLDER TITLE Nixon Pardon - Correspondence NEW LOCATION Donor Restriction Closed File DATE WITHDRAWN 05/15/1991 WITHDRAWING ARCHIVIST Kellee Green KNOWN DUPLICATES No Ford Denies Post Story On Pardon By Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein Washington Post State Write President Ford stands by his public statements and testimony about the events leading up to the pardon of former President Nixon, a White House spokesman said yesterday. William I. Greener said "the President has dealt with candor and truthfulness at all times on this matter. Greener denied a story in yesterday's Washington Post that President Ford assured former Nixon chief of staff Alexander M. Haig Jr. on Aug. 28, 1974, that a pardon for Nixon would beforthcoming. This was 10 days before President Ford announced the pardon. It was learned from other White House sources, meanwhile, that President Ford failed to tell his own staff about his discussions with Haig regarding a pardon, and that - until questioned by reporters this week Mr. Ford's top advisers were unaware that such con- versations took place. Had they known of the existence of such con- versations, these sources said, they would have advised Mr, Ford to disclose them when he. testified before a congressional asubcommittee last year. On Capitol Hill, meanwhile, Chairman Peter W. Rodino Jr of the House Judiciary Committee directed a review of President Ford's testimony about the pardon, to deter- mine if a subcommittee should reopen hearings into the matter. According to Greener, Mr. Ford and Haig did discuss the pardon. question on Aug. 28, 1974, but only in the context of answers to questions about a possible pardon that Mr. Ford gave at his press conference that day. Three reliable sources have told The Washington Post that the President and Haig had a substantive discussion that day about pardoning Nixon, and that Haig received assurances from Mr. Ford that a pardon would be LIBRARY GERALD R. FORD granted. In addition, both Haig and See PRESIDENT, A4, Col. 5 Washington Part 12/19/75 President Denies Story on Pardon PRESIDENT, From A1 White House Counsel Philip Chairman William Hungate W. Buchen said earlier this (D-Mo.), Holtzman raised week that the general and the "the possibility that President President had such a sub- Ford concealed important stantive discussion that day. information" when be NATIONAL ARCHIVES AND RECORDS ADMINISTRATION Presidential Libraries Transfer/Disposal Sheet ITEM ID 00193 DESCRIPTION OF ITEM MOVED Benton Becker and Gerald Ford. COLLECTION/SERIES/FOLDER ID 023800018 COLLECTION TITLE Benton L. Becker Papers BOX NUMBER 2 FOLDER TITLE Nixon Pardon - Correspondence ACCESSION NUMBER 91-NLF-024 MOVEMENT DATE 05/15/1991 TYPE OF MATERIAL Photographs NEW LOCATION Audiovisual Collection ARCHIVIST'S Kellee Green

Document source description

This file contains correspondence to and from Becker regarding his role in the pardon. It also includes news clippings.

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    "ocrText": "The original documents are located in Box 2, folder \"Nixon Pardon - Correspondence\" of\nthe Benton L. Becker Papers at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.\nCopyright Notice\nThe copyright law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the making of\nphotocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. Benton Becker donated to the United\nStates of America his copyrights in all of his unpublished writings in National Archives collections.\nWorks prepared by U.S. Government employees as part of their official duties are in the public\ndomain. The copyrights to materials written by other individuals or organizations are presumed to\nremain with them. If you think any of the information displayed in the PDF is subject to a valid\ncopyright claim, please contact the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.\nDigitized from Box 2 of the Benton Becker Papers at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library\n420 East 64th Street\nNew York, New York 10021\nSeptember 9, 1974\nBenton L. Becker, Esq.\nCramer Haber & Becker\n475 L'Enfant Plaza, S. W.\nWashington, D. C. 20024\nDear Benton,\nI thought that you would enjoy this clipping from today's New York Times.\nCongratulations on your accomplishments to date. After seven years, my name may not\nring a beH, but we worked together at the Justice Dept. in the Frauds Section.\nVery truly yours,\nalan Rothenberg\npublic\nfolder and began reading his\nunto Richard Nixon for all of\nBenton Becker, to\ndecision, looking occasionally\nfenses against the United\nwith Mr. Nixon and his law-\nquestions,\nsaid\nthat\ninto the cameras, which were\nStates which he, Richard Nix-\nyers. Mr. Becker, a friend of\nduring his study of the matter\nfilming the event for later show-\non, has committed or taken\nboth the President and Mr.\nhad Mr. Ford talked to Mr.\naspect\nof\ning. He spokes of the difficulty\npart in during the period from\nBuchen, went to San Cle-\nNixon and that the decision to\nNixon's\nof the decision.\nJan. 20, 1969, through Aug. 9\nmente last week and advised\ngo ahead with the pardon had\nhe\ncan\n\"To procrastinate, to agonize\n1974.\"\nMr. Nixon that he probably\nbeen based on the belief that\nforced to\nand to wait for a more favor-\nMr. Buchen later briefed re-\nwould receive a pardon. Mr.\n\"it was very likely\" Mr. Mixon\ntrial\nable turn of events that may\nporters on the events leading\nNixon told Mr. Becker, either\nwould have been indicted and\naides\nnever come,\" he said, \"or more\nup to today's action. Sitting\npersonally or through an aide,\nordered to stand trial.\nof\njus-\ncompelling external pressures\ncase.\nThe\nthat may as well be wrong as\nsub-\nright, is itself a decision of sorts\nPresident\nand a weak and potentially\nLawyer, 36, Is Liaison for 2 Presidents\nto\nopen\ndangerous course for a Presi-\nhav-\ndent to follow.\"\nMr. Becker, while serving Inviob\nde-\nOf President Nixon and his\nBy PHILIP SHABECOFF\nthe Justice Department as an\nthe\nFifth\nfamily, Mr. Ford said: \"Theirs\nSpecial to The New York Times\nAssistant Attorney Generaft) ed\notects\ncit-\nis an American tragedy in\nimination.\nWASHINGTON, Sept. 8-Ben-\nworked on a criminal taseroll\nwhich we all have played a\nwas\npart. It could go on and on\nton L. Becker, the young law-\nagainst the late Adam Claytonyin\ntoday\nposi-\nyer who acted as intermediary\nPowell.\nthe\nand on, or someone must write\nhe\n'The End' to it. I have concluded\nbetween President Ford and\nMr. Becker, in private proofi\nas\nformer President Richard M.\ntice, represented Joel Kline andriw\nidency on\nthat only 1 can do that.\"\nHe pointed out that there\nNixon in the negotiations that\nEric Baer, defendants in u\nabout\nled to today's pardon announce-\ncent stock manipulation case. 201\nwas no historical or legal prece-\nment was described by a for-\nBoth men were convicted.\nSome items in this folder were not digitized because it contains copyrighted\nmaterials. Please contact the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library for access to\nthese materials.\nE. Blanche Pritchett, Ph.D.\nRoute 4\nArlington, Washington 98223\n(206) 435-3264\nSeptember 9, 1974\nBenton Becker\nCramer, Haber, and Becker\n485 L'Enfante, Southwest\nWashington, D.C. 20024\nDear Benton Becker:\nOur telephone conversation, of this date, has tended to add enormous\nsupport to my personal considerations about your great service to our President,\nand to the citizens of our country. Regrettably, most people do not know -\nand do not know that they do not knowl The outburst of emotional reaction, at\nthis time, tends to validate the ignorance of the masses. They do not know\nwhat a tremendous service has been performed for them by President Ford, and by\nyou. As a voice crying out in the wilderness, I want you to know that your\ncharacter, your comprehensibility, your integrity, and your devotion to your\nspiritual guidance are without flaw and are to be commended, I must ask you\nto be sensitive to the degree of gratitude being expressed herein, because in\nthe face of such a magnitude of appreciation words, being weak things, cannot\nreach the height of expression.\nAs spokesuoman for 533 registered voters in 25 states, I reiterate my\nmessage to the President, and wish him to know that we commend him for his\ngreat courage and support his action in taking the initiative, under spiritual\nguidance and direction, to pardon President Nixon, one of the greatest statesman\nthis nation has ever hadl\nBenton Becker, I will be disseminating my opinions and philosophy very\nbroadly over radio-talk-shows and in writing, and I will comply with your\nrequest to keep you informed.\nAs I stated to you on the phone this morning, you are, indeed, an angel\nof mercy! I offer any service which you may request of me, at any time. I\nbase this offer on what I consider to be my recognition of a Fraternity Brother\nPage 2\nGod bless you, beloved Benton Becker. With high esteem, I am,\nFaithfully yours,\nE. Bearche Pritchatt\nE Blanche Pritchett\nEBP:d\nGERALD R FORD\nAREA CODE 618\nOFFICE PHONE 253-7727 OR 252-1234\nJ. D. BARTER CONSTRUCTION CO., INC.\nGeneral Contractors\nLEVEE . AIRPORT - ROAD CONSTRUCTION\nHAULING TRAFFIC BOUND GRAVEL\nROUTE 34 . SOUTH RURAL ROUTE 3\nHARRISBURG, ILLINOIS 62946\nSeptember 9, 1974\nBenton,\nI just had to take a minute to tell you how thrilled I was when I saw\nyou on the newscast last evening. I am happy to know you had a part\nin this. I, for one, am proud of your friend and our president.\nGood luck!\nVery truly yours,\nDorathy L. Jox\nDorothy L. Fox\nGENALD A. FOMO\n10 LIGHT STREET\n(17TH FLOOR)\nBALTIMORE, MARYLAND 21202\nSeptember 9, 1974\nBenton L. Becker, Esquire\nCramer, Habber & Becker\nSuite 4100\n485 L'Fant Plaza, S.W.\nWashington, D.C. 20024\nDear Benton:\nI was painting my house on Sunday and listen-\ning to the radio and heard your name as being the\nintermediary between the White House and San Clemente\non the Nixon pardon. My congratulations. I hope\nthat this means that your difficulties in D.C. are\nover, although someone showed me an article today\nfrom the Washington Post talking about a potential\ninvestigation by the reprobates here in Baltimore.\nI hope that this is not true and that your future is\nfree from such difficulties.\nAgain congratulations and my best to both\nyou and Joanne.\nVery truly yours,\nJay Schwartz\nJAS/las\nGERALD R. FORD LIBRANY\nMATTEL\nSeptember 9, 1974\nMr. Benton Becker\n475 L'Enfant Plaza Southwest\nSuite 4100\nWashington D.C. 20024\nDear Benton:\nI was aroused from a blissful reverie late last\nnight by my former wife, (you do remember Lois\nI'm sure), asking if I had my T.V. set on. It\nseems as though you made the late T.V. news.\nWhile reading the Los Angeles Times this morn-\ning I came across the enclosed story and obvi-\nously you have been quite busy.\nPerhaps, on one of your next trips to Southern\nCalifornia, if time permits, give me a call and\nlet's get together I'll buy.\nThe best,\nJoel Rubenstein\nDirector, Marketing Public Relations\nJR/cb\nEnclosure: One newspaper clip\nGERALD A. FORD\nMattel, Inc. General Offices, 5150 Rosecrans Avenue, Hawthorne, California 90250: Telephone (213) 644-0411 Cable: Mattelco\nYOUNG, TURNBULL & LINSCOTT, P.A.\nATTORNEYS AND COUNSELORS AT LAW\nPost Office Box 112\nV. KEITH YOUNG\nCITIZENS NATIONAL BANK BUILDING\nYour REFERENCE:\nWILLIAM S. TURNBULL\nORLANDO, FLORIDA 32801\nJERRY R. LINSCOTT\nTELEPHONE (305) 841-IIII\nIN REPLY REFER To:\nJEFFRY R. JONTZ\nARTHUR R. LOUV\nSTEPHEN A. WEINSTEIN\nJAMES R. MONROE\nSeptember 10, 1974\nBenton Becker, Esquire\nCramer, Haber & Becker\n485 L'Enfant Plaza, West, S. W.\nWashington, D. C.\nDear Benton:\nAlthough I have not heard anything from you since\nthe Insco reversal, I see that you have not been idle. I was\ninterested to hear on CBS News on Sunday night that you had\nmade the trip to San Clemente to make the arrangements for\nthe Nixon pardon. It appears that our new President continues\nto rely heavily on the good counsel of your offices.\nVery truly yours,\nJRJ/lmh\nMartin Itzler, P.c.\nLaw Offices\n110 EAST 59TH STREET\nNEW YORK, NEW YORK 10022\nTEL. (212) PL 2-8855\nCABLE: \"MARITZLAW\"\nSept 10th\nBenton-\na forgotten name from the past on the\nnews - and & thought you were destined\nto be the lead singer in a rock & roll band\nn something of equal dignity - - fallen idols\nso many years-turenty l gness\nMarty\nCIGNARD\nGERACO\nAMERICAN\nSOCIETY\nOF\nHOSPITAL\nPHARMACSTS\nAMERICAN SOCIETY OF HOSPITAL PHARMACISTS\n4630 Montgomery Avenue / Washington, D. C. 20014\nAREA CODE 301 (Betheada, Maryland)\nTELEPHONE 657-3000\nSeptember 10, 1974\nBenton L. Becker, Esq.\n485 L'Enfant Plaza W. S.W.\nWashington, D.C.\nDear Benton:\nI have been following closely your participation in these historic\nand unprecedented events as they have unfolded over the past sev-\neral days, and feel profoundly proud of your mission. I must say\nI have a feeling of high pride in being able to identify with you\nbecause of our relationship of some years ago. My family had\nalways expected you to do something special and indeed you have\nnot let us down.\nI only hope that in your intimate involvement with the President\nof the United States you can serve him well for the benefit of\nall the people in this country. The pressures and challenges of\nyour responsibility are great, but I know that you can handle\nthem well.\nBest regards.\nNonian Very truly yours,\nNorman M. Hochman\nController\nNMH: cb\nFORD\n&\nThe national specialty society of pharmacists practicing in hospitals and related institutions\nGERALD\n24 HOUR PHONE: PO 3-8784\nRobert H. Glazier\n3401 SCHOOL LANE\nREAL ESTATE MAINTENANCE\nDREXEL HILL, PA.\nSeptember 11, 1974\nMr. Benton L. Becker\nc/o Cramer, Haber, & Becker\nAttorneys At Law\n485 L'Enfant Plaza, S. W.\nSuite 4100\nWashington, D. C. 20024\nDear Mr. Becker:\nI would like to offer my sincerest congratulations on your\nsuccess in the recent matter between Ex-President Nixon and\nPresident Ford. As you know from my previous letters, I have\nalways had a very high regard for your ability.\nEnclosed are some newspaper clippings that you may want to\nuse in the event Mrs. Becker is making a scrap book based on the\naccomplishments of her famous husband.\nI hope that you have\nthe very best of luck in the future.\nVery sincerely yours,\nRobert H. Glazier\nRHG/e\nEncl:\nFUND TIBRATO\nAN EFFORT TO ASSIST UNDERSTANDING!\nby\nE. Blanche Pritchett, Ph.D.\nArlington, Washington 98223\n(Written September 12, 1974)\nOn Sunday, September 8, 1974, Gerald R. Ford, the President of\nthe United States, \"took the bit between his teeth\" and did what he\nhad to do! There was no way that President Ford could have not done\nwhat he had to do! He went before the nation on television and he\npronounced a pardon for former President Richard Nixon. He stated,\nas clearly as he could, the basis for and the conditions of that\nPresidential pardon. He was the only person who could have exercised\nthat Presidential right! He was the only person who comprehends the\ncircumstances that caused President Nixon to resign, even though you\nmay have heard numbers of theories and opinions. President Ford knew\nwhat his liabilities were, and he knew that self-serving motives\nwould have caused him not to do what he knew was the right thing to\ndo! Yes, he knew! And he went forth, courageously, to bring some\nmeasure of balance to a situation that was badly tilted out of per-\nspective. For his sheer courage alone, he is to be respected and\nhonored. The future will guarantee that the wisdom of his judgement\nwas superb and timely! Of that, I am absolutely certain!\nPerhaps I am carried away with my own ability to understand; it\nis surely not conceit on my part when I can view the situation and\nevaluate the possibilities. I can offer a view of my own, which you\nmay caption as \"theory\" but I will feel better for having said it\npublicly.\nFor over two years now, I have been aware of the possibility that\nimportant state secrets were in danger by persons in position of\ntrust in the Executive branch of our government. I seemed to know\nfrom the start that President Nixon could have done many things dif-\nferently if it were not for his own built-in respect for national\nsecurity. A President has to be aware of national security and has\nto guard and defend it if he is to live up to his oath of office. My\nview tells me that Richard Nixon withheld things to his own detriment,\nand ultimately to his own downfall. He did what he did because he\nbelieved it was what he should do. The extreme loyalty of his own\nsubordinates shows a tremendous sense of loyalty and respect for con-\nfidences, and this example was set by the \"Chief\" himself! In being\ntrue to his own ideals, President Nixon withheld things that could\nhave explained many things that would have caused members of the Con-\ngress to side with him. But\nhe didn't take the risk.\nMy view tells me that Dan Ellsberg, having once been a staff mem-\nber of the National Security Council, had stolen \"Top Secret\" docu-\nments and disseminated them to the press, and that this one act alone\nby a person in a \"security position\" would have been enough to give\nany truly responsible Chief Executive nightmares! President Nixon\nhad to make decisions. His decisions had to be made in strict ac-\ncordance with his own concepts of the national interest. He had to\nfind the leaks in the White House and he had to use any method that\nhe could use. That should be an indisputable statement! He had to\ndo what he could, and, as Chief Executive, he could do almost any-\nthing. He chose to keep his investigations confined to as few people\nas possible, and only highly trusted and proven people at that! He\nbelieved within his heart that he could defend his people and handle\nany contingency that may have arisen. His mistake was in not real-\nizing that any little thing would be blown all out of proportion due\nto the avowed Nixon-haters. In other words, he underestimated his\nenemy. That was a mistake, and it is a mistake to which he has re-\nferred several times. He has never claimed infallibility!\nAs to the pardon\nPresident Ford had almost one full month to\nview things from the exclusive position of the Chief Executive, FORD\nLIBRARY\n[please turn page]\nGERALD\n[thank you]\nthen he knew! He knew that President Nixon was truly a pariah! He\nknew that President Nixon was defending this country's internal peace\nof mind by not talking about matters that he should not talk about.\nIn seeing this whole thing so clearly, from the one place it could be\nviewed (the Presidency), Gerald R. Ford made the only just and right-\neous decision that could have been made. But, like President Nixon,\nhe cannot tell all of the reasons for his decision either!\nAny truly objective person can look at the facts of the whole\nsituation that has been labeled \"Watergate\" and see that the efforts\nmade by President Nixon had truly noble intents and purposes. Truly!\nIf President Ford had not pardoned Richard Nixon, there was a\npossibility of an indictment by the Special Prosecutor! If Mr. Nixon\ntook the stand under oath, he would have to tell things that could\npanic the citizens of the U.S. President Ford was keen enough to see\nall of these potential liabilities, and he made sure such a thing\ncould not happen. He made sure that President Nixon would never be\nliable for perjury for withholding state secrets, etc.!\nJust imagine what damage an embittered President could do if he\nchose to, under the same circumstances in which Richard Nixon has\nfound himself! Just imagine if his own top aides chose to talk!\nRichard Nixon had the same authority to grant pardons as Presi-\ndent Ford now has. He did not pardon his top aides even though he\nwould dearly have loved to do so. He did not take unfair advantage\nof his position. He knew that if he did, his accusers would also use\nthat against him.\nRichard Nixon was in an impossible position: no matter what he\ndid, it would not turn out right! He chose the way he has gone so\nthat he could live with his own conscience, but for that he has taken\non the hatred and distrust of millions of people! He had to con-\nsciously make the decision to take on the apparency of villain, when\nin truth he is one of this nation's greatest-ever national heroes!\nNow, Richard Nixon is a man who is hurting, esthetically, emo-\ntionally, and physically! He is bearing his burden while he knows\njust how he could relieve himself of it, but that would mean that he\nwould have to talk about untalkable things and his attitude is that\nhe \"would rather die first\"!\nNow, President Ford, perhaps the only man who knows the great\nsacrifice made by Richard Nixon, is also bound not to talk and is be-\ning pelted by the actual enemies of this land -- enemies who exist\nunder the cover of citizenship while trying to overthrow the govern-\nment. This is the biggest of all national enigmas!\nWhere emotions rule, there is no charity in the hearts of the\nbeasts who seek blood! There is only sadism and cruelty! And this\nis what is known as a \"Christian Nation\"!\nLet your heart tell you the truth! Never mind the scandalmon-\ngers! Without your ears, they starve!\nI have made a pledge to myself to speak of my own understanding,\nwith a plea for others to look and understand as well. Won't you put\nyourself in the same position as these two topflight human beings of\nhigh caliber, and see the way it is?\nFORD\nLIBRARY\nGENALD\nU.S. Copyright © 1974 by E. Blanche Pritchett, Ph.D.\nSeptember 13, 1974\nJay Schwarts, Esquire\n10 Light Street\nSeventeenth Floor\nBaltimore, Maryland 21202\nDear Jay:\nIt was thoughtful of you to take the time to write\nme this week. Hearing from old friends, particularly at\ntimes when everyone else seems to want to talk to you, is\na very pleasant experience. I hope that you will give me\na call some time so that we can get together in person.\nSincerely,\nBENTON L. BECKER\nBLB:cdk\nFORD LIBRARY at GLHALD\nSeptember 13, 1974\nAlan Rothenberg, Esquire\n420 East 64th Street\nNew York, New York 10021\nDear Alan:\nI surely do recall working closely with you during\nour tenure at Justice and it was indeed thoughtful of you\nto write me at this time.\nSincerely,\nBENTON L. BECKER\nBLB:cdk\nGEHALD LEBRARY R FORD\nSeptember 13, 1974\nMartin Itzler, Esquire\n110 East 59th Street\nNew York, New York 10022\nDear Marty:\nA voice from the past indeed. Others may be\nmotivated in actions like this for personal self-glory\nor monetary interest. Let the record show that I did\nit for one purpose and one purpose eñone: TO IMPRESS\nJACKIE LAHN.\nBENTON L. BECKER\nBLB :cdk\nFORD R. CEMALO LIBRARY\nSeptember 13, 1974\nMr. Norman M. Hochman\nController\nAmerican Society of Hospital Pharmacits\n4630 Montgomery Avenue\nWashington, D. C. 20014\nDear Norman:\nIt was thoughtful of you to take the time to write\nme this week. Hearing from old friends, particularly at\ntimes when everyone else seems to want to talk to you, is\na very pleasant experience. I hope that you will give me\na call some time so that we can get together in pesson.\nSincerely,\nBENTON L. BECKER\nBLB:cdk\nFORD OF LIGHARY GERALD\nSeptember 13, 1974\nJeffry R. Jontz, Esquire\nYoung, Turnbull & Linscott, P.A.\nPost Office Box 112\nOrlando, Florida 32801\nDear Jeff:\nIt was thoughtful of you to take time to write\nme this week. Hearing from old friends, particularly\nat times when everyone else seems to want to talk to\nyou, is a very pleasant experience. I hope that if you\nare in Washington in the near future, you will find time\nto call so that we might get together in person.\nSincerely,\nBENTON L. BECKER\nBLB:cdk\nGERALD P. FORD\nSeptember 13, 1974\nDorothy L. Fox\nJ. D. Barter Construction Co., Inc.\nRoute 34 - South, Rural Route 3\nHarrisburg, Illinois 62946\nDear Dorothy:\nIt was thoughtful of you to take time to write\nme this week. Hearing from old friends, particularly\nat times when everyone else seems to want to talk to\nyou, is a very pleasant experience. I hope that if you\nare ever in Washington, you will find time to call so\nthat we might get together in person.\nSincerely,\nBENTON L. BECKER\nBLB:cdk\nGERALD A. FORD LIBRARY\nJACK WATSON, CLU\nTHE FRANKLIN LIFE\nVICE PRESIDENT - FIELD SERVICES\nINSURANCE COMPANY\nHOME OFFICE: SPRINGFIELD. ILLINOIS 62713. PHONE: 217 528-2011\nSeptember 17, 1974\nMr. Benton Becker\n485 L'enfant Plaza Southwest\nSuite 4100\nWashington, D. C. 20024\nCongratulations, Benton\non your key role in the Ford administration. As a good friend\nof your brother Wally, I have followed your assignment with keen interest\nand appreciate your personal importance. Wally long ago told me to\nwatch out for his baby brother, and you certainly met his great expectations.\nSorry I was away when you stopped by Springfield but hopefully\nwe will meet some day. The Becker family is well supplied with talent\nbecause your father and Wally have distinguished themselves as exceptional\nlife insurance professionals with Franklin Life. Wally sets new records\nin Sales Management.\nWe are mighty proud of the Beckers.\nSincerely,\nJack & Watson\nVice President\nJW. lgf\nGEAALE\nSeptember 18, 1974\nMr. Robert Glazier\n3401 School Lane\nDrexel Hill, Pennsylvania\nDear Mr. Glazier:\nThank you for your thoughtful letter regarding the\npardoning of Former President Nixon. My secretary has\ndutifully maintained a clipping and correspondence file\nwhere your thoughtful communique will be housed. Someday,\nwhen I am old and gray, I imagine I will enjoy rereading\nand recapturing thoughts of the past weeks.\nVery sincerely,\nBENTON L. BECKER\nBLB:cdk\nGERALD R FORD LIBRARY\nSeptember 18, 1974\nMr. Joel Rubenstein\nMattel, Inc.\n5150 Rosecrans Avenue\nHawthorne, California 90250\nDear Joel:\nI am embarrassed and disturbed for having been\nresponsible for an act which caused disturbance to your\nslumber. Yet, it was thoughtful of you to take the\ntime to write me and renew an old and valued friendship.\nI was particularly intrigued with your invitation\nto buy drinks upon my next trip to California and recall-\ning your spendthrift nature, I reported your offer to\nWide World of Sports.\nIf you plan to be in Washington any time in the\nfuture, please call as I would very much enjoy catching\nup on old times.\nVery sincerely,\nBENTON L. BECKER\nBLB:cdk\nFORD R. LIBRARY GERALD\nWKBD TV\nch50\nDetroit\nP O Box 359\nSouthfield Mi 48075\n313/444 8500\nSeptember 19, 1974\nDear Mr. Becker:\n\"The Lou Gordon Program\" is a 90-minute program devoted to\ninterviews and discussions of public interest. The program\nis seen on Kaiser stations serving Boston, Cleveland, Chicago,\nLos Angeles, Philadelphia, San Francisco and on other\nstations according to the attached schedule.\nOn a recent program, the date and time of which is shown\nbelow, Mr. Gordon responded to a question submitted by a\nviewer. In his response, reference was made to you, and\nI am attaching a copy of that reference for your information.\nThe Lou Gordon Program\nBroadcast date and time: Weekend of September 14-15, 1974\nIf you would like the opportunity to respond to these\ncomments, please let me know so that we may make necessary\narrangements.\nSincerely,\nVice President & General Manager\nLCH:jf\nAttach.\nMr. Benton Becker\nAttorney at Law\n485 L'Enfant Plaza S.W.\nWashington, DC 20024\nGERALD AIIVHOIT\n&\nKAISER\nBROADCASTING COMPANY\n\"THE LOU GORDON PROGRAM\"\nAIR DATES\nKAISER BROADCASTING COMPANY STATIONS\nSTATION\nSERVING\nDAY\nTIME\nWLVI TV\nBoston\nSunday\n10:30 PM\nWKBF TV\nCleveland\nSunday\n10:30 PM\nKBSC TV\nLos Angeles\nSaturday/Sunday\n10:00 PM\nWKBS TV\nPhiladelphia\nSunday\n10:30 PM\nKBHK TV\nSan Francisco\nSunday\n10:30 PM\nWFLD TV\nChicago\nSunday\n9:30 PM\nOTHER STATIONS\nSTATION\nSERVING\nDAY\nTIME\nWCIX TV\nMiami\nMonday\n8:30 PM\nFORD A. LIBRARY GERALD\nNATIONAL ARCHIVES AND RECORDS ADMINISTRATION\nPresidential Libraries Withdrawal Sheet\nWITHDRAWAL ID 02623\nREASON FOR WITHDRAWAL\nDonor restriction\nTYPE OF MATERIAL\nLetter\nCREATOR'S NAME\nJohn Futch\nRECEIVER'S NAME\nBenton Becker\nDESCRIPTION\nPersonal matter.\nCREATION DATE\n1974\nCOLLECTION/SERIES/FOLDER ID\n023800018\nCOLLECTION TITLE\nBenton L. Becker Papers\nBOX NUMBER\n2\nFOLDER TITLE\nNixon Pardon - Correspondence\nNEW LOCATION\nDonor Restriction Closed File\nDATE WITHDRAWN\n05/15/1991\nWITHDRAWING ARCHIVIST\nKellee Green\nKNOWN DUPLICATES\nNo\nFord Denies\nPost Story\nOn Pardon\nBy Bob Woodward\nand Carl Bernstein\nWashington Post State Write\nPresident Ford stands by\nhis public statements and\ntestimony about the events\nleading up to the pardon of\nformer President Nixon, a\nWhite House spokesman said\nyesterday.\nWilliam I. Greener said \"the\nPresident has dealt with\ncandor and truthfulness at all\ntimes on this matter.\nGreener denied a story in\nyesterday's Washington Post\nthat President Ford assured\nformer Nixon chief of staff\nAlexander M. Haig Jr. on Aug.\n28, 1974, that a pardon for\nNixon would beforthcoming.\nThis was 10 days before\nPresident Ford announced the\npardon.\nIt was learned from other\nWhite House sources,\nmeanwhile, that President\nFord failed to tell his own staff\nabout his discussions with\nHaig regarding a pardon, and\nthat - until questioned by\nreporters this week Mr.\nFord's top advisers were\nunaware that such con-\nversations took place.\nHad they known of the\nexistence of such con-\nversations, these sources said,\nthey would have advised Mr,\nFord to disclose them when he.\ntestified before\na\ncongressional asubcommittee\nlast year.\nOn Capitol Hill, meanwhile,\nChairman Peter W. Rodino Jr\nof the House Judiciary\nCommittee directed a review\nof President Ford's testimony\nabout the pardon, to deter-\nmine if a subcommittee should\nreopen hearings into the\nmatter.\nAccording to Greener, Mr.\nFord and Haig did discuss the\npardon. question on Aug. 28,\n1974, but only in the context of\nanswers to questions about a\npossible pardon that Mr. Ford\ngave at his press conference\nthat day.\nThree reliable sources have\ntold The Washington Post that\nthe President and Haig had a\nsubstantive discussion that\nday about pardoning Nixon,\nand that Haig received\nassurances from Mr. Ford\nthat a pardon would be\nLIBRARY GERALD R. FORD\ngranted.\nIn addition, both Haig and\nSee PRESIDENT, A4, Col. 5\nWashington Part\n12/19/75\nPresident Denies\nStory on Pardon\nPRESIDENT, From A1\nWhite House Counsel Philip\nChairman William Hungate\nW. Buchen said earlier this\n(D-Mo.), Holtzman raised\nweek that the general and the\n\"the possibility that President\nPresident had such a sub-\nFord concealed important\nstantive discussion that day.\ninformation\"\nwhen\nbe\nNATIONAL ARCHIVES AND RECORDS ADMINISTRATION\nPresidential Libraries Transfer/Disposal Sheet\nITEM ID 00193\nDESCRIPTION OF ITEM MOVED\nBenton Becker and Gerald Ford.\nCOLLECTION/SERIES/FOLDER ID\n023800018\nCOLLECTION TITLE\nBenton L. Becker Papers\nBOX NUMBER\n2\nFOLDER TITLE\nNixon Pardon - Correspondence\nACCESSION NUMBER\n91-NLF-024\nMOVEMENT DATE\n05/15/1991\nTYPE OF MATERIAL\nPhotographs\nNEW LOCATION\nAudiovisual Collection\nARCHIVIST'S\nKellee Green"
}