White House Press Release, Correspondence Between President Harry S. Truman and William C. Foster

# 1636 178 IMMEDIATE RELEASE MAY 20, 1948 The President today sent the following letter to the Honorable William C. Foster, accepting his resignation as Under Secretary of Commerce and as Chairman of the Air Coordinating Committee: May 20, 1948 Dear Mr. Foster: I regret that it becomes necessary for you to terminate your services as The Under Secretary of Commerce. I realize, however, that the new work you are planning to undertake with the Economic Cooperation Administration will demand all of your time. Accordingly, I accept reluctantly your resignation, effective at the close of business on May thirty-first next, in accordance with the terms of your letter of May sixth. I also accept, effective at the same time, your resignation as Chairman of the Air Coordinating Committee. You have rendered fine service in each of your posts of responsibility. As a businessman you brought ripe experience to the discharge of duties which fell to you as The Under Secretary of Commerce. Your work as Chairman of the Air Coordinating Committee has been equally valuable both in promoting national security and in developing civil aviation. As you move into a new field of activity you have the satisfaction of knowing that you have filled both posts NARA with distinction. Very sincerely yours, HARRY S. TRUMAN Following is the text of Mr. Foster's letter of resignation as Under Secretary of Commerce: May 6, 1948 Dear Mr. President: I herewith submit my resignation as Under Secretary of Commerce, to become effective at your earliest convenience. If you feel that it will contribute to the smooth transfer of the responsibilitics of my office, I would be glad to continue for whatever interval may be necessary. Between now and June 1, 1948, at the latest, I am sure the transition can be completed. As a business man I have long been associated with and interested in the Department of Commerce. Now I find that I have developed a genuine affection for the Department and its staff. I am proud to have been a member of such an effective team. May I take this opportunity to express my real appreciation for the privilege of having served the nation under your leadership and that of Secretary Harriman during this crucial period. Very sincerely yours, WILLIAM C. FOSTER (OVER)