Memorandum from Sidney Souers to Admiral William D. Leahy, with Attachment and Related Material

CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE GROUP NEW WAR DEPARTMENT BUILDING 21st and VIRGINIA AVENUE, N. W. WASHINGTON, D. C. OFFICE OF THE DIRECTOR 7 May 1946 MEMORANDUM FOR FLEET ADMIRAL LEAHY: Attached is a brief of the biographical data of Major General Charles Hartwell Bonesteel. The data on which it is based was ob- tained from public sources and was not discussed with anyone. There is nothing in the record of this officer to indicate that he has ever had any broad experience in intelligence matters. He has had no intelligence duties. The N.I.A. is a new concept in intelligence which requires a. breadth of view and a deep understanding of the entire field on the part of the Director of Central Intelligence. The officers in the vari- ous departments engaged in this activity on the working level are gener- ally experts in their spheres and too often the officers assigned to the higher level posts have been possessed of limited experience in intel- ligence. To insure the most beneficial results in the Central Intelli- gence Group it is necessary that the Director be an officer to whom those specialists will look for leadership and guidance based on a thorough and comprehensive knowledge of this complex subject. In order that coordination be effected to the greatest extent, and the transfer effected of many functions of ONI, G-2, A-2 and State to the C.I.G., it is essential that these services recognize the strong leadership and inherent skill in C.I.G. top level personnel. General Bonesteel is 61 years of age and seems to have passed the peak of his career some years ago. His record while honorable is not too impressive. Lieutenant General Vandenberg is 47 years of age, has & fine war record, is regarded as an outstanding officer and is keenly interested in intelligence. His leadership in G-2 has been strong and determined. He has demonstrated his recognition of the necessity for the reorientation of the intelligence structure. Respectfully, DECLASSIFIED 14 E.0. 12065, Sec, 3-402 CIALIN 6-13-78 050 LTR Stata Dont: Guidoning, suno 12, 10792/20141 PROJECT NLT 77-78 SIDNEY W. SQUERS By NLT- He NARS, Date 6-22-11 Director