Letter, Barrie M. White, Jr. to Sherman Adams Regarding Operation Statehood and the Visit of Alaskans to Washington, D. C.

Grade OPERATION STATEHOOD ANCHORAGE CHAPTER P. o. BOX 407 HE WHITE HOUSE 2 ANCHORAGE, ALASKA Mar 5 9 10 AM '54 RECEIVED May 2, 1954 Mr. Sherman Adams The Assistant to the President The White House Washington, D.C. Dear Mr. Adams: I thought we should let you know that Operation Statehood is trying to arrange a flight of 50 prominent Alaskans to go to Washington next Sunday, May 9, and there to join with what we understand will be a similar delegation of Hawaiians. I enclose copies of telegrams to Sec. McKay and Gov. Heintzleman, asking their help in arranging, if possible, an audience with the President. This is the proceedure we were told to follow, but I felt sure I should contact you too. We were greatly heartened to hear yesterday that Bob Atwood, chairman of the Alaska Statehood Committee, had an audience with the President. May I say for our part that we come to Washington not with any chips on our shoulders but only in a spirit of intense interest and wanting to help in any way possible. I would deem it a great privilege if I could meet you. I promise no long winded speeches! Sincerely, Bamila. white Barrie M. White Jr. A Non-Partisan Association Devoted to Immediate Statehood for Alaska