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Ford Newsletter, July-Dec. 1955
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Gerald R. Ford Congressional Papers
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Germany (West)
North Atlantic Treaty Organization. (4/4/1949 - )
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This document scanned from Box D1 of the Gerald R. Ford Congressional Papers at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
Your Washington Review
KENT
Congressman
OTTAWA
5
JERRY FORD
FOR RELEASE July 7, 1955
On the floor of the House the legislative agenda was extremely heavy
We
approved the Military Construction and Mutual Security authorization bills which
together legalized about $5.5 billion in federal expenditures during the fiscal
year which started July 1st. Your Congressman is a member of two appropriation
subcommittees which are considering the adviseability of putting up the money
for both programs. It's more than a little hectic attending both subcommittee
hearings and at the same time keep abreast of legislative developments in the
House chamber. From the testimony to date it looks as though both appropriation
requests can be reduced without impairing our national security. Within the next
week the subcommittees will make a final determination as to amount of tax dollars
that will be available.
The Mutual Security Program which is primarily military aid and assistance
for our allies is an effective and economic weapon for world peace. It is our
aim to help our allies expand their military strength. As South Korea, Japan,
Germany and the others enlarge their Armed Forces, the burden on our own forces
is reduced. The enormous investments Uncle Sam has made in the past few years has
begun to show positive results in important foreign policy advantages. I believe
Soviet Russia now realizes the United States and its allies are determined to
prevent communist aggression.
The Congress has passed a bill to extend for another year the $6 billion
temporary increase in the national debt over the permanent ceiling of $275 billion.
Last August Congress authorized a temporary increase to $281 billion ex-
piring on June 30 designed to tide the Treasury over the year's low-collection
periods. Now that we haveextended this financial elasticity for an additional
year, the Treasury has been proveded with enough flexibility to again handle
seasonal borrowing problems for the coming fiscal year while meeting the new ob-
ligations incurred by thisusession of Congress. Secretary of the Treasury,
George Humphrey, assured the Congress in committee testimony that the Treasury
can expect to wind up on June 30, 1956, after the insurge of taxes next April, with
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW - Page 2
the national debt around $273 1/2 billion. At this writing the public debt stands
at $273,393,905,022.25.
Mr. Humphrey held out hope that this year will be the last time the
Treasury will need torequest a temporary increase of the debt limit. In fact, he
indicated the possibility of a $2 1/2 billion cut in next year's budget which
would go along way toward balancing the government's revenues and outlays. The
important thing to remember about this is that today Americans are enjoying new
peaks of prosperity while the public debt has been held at approximately an
even level and without additional reliance on government spending.
Secretary Humphrey has informally submitted a unique plan to balance the
budget each and every year regardless of war or peace. He suggests that Congress
hold all appropriations bills following the usual Congressional consideration
until near the beginning of the new fiscal year and until after the national
revenues for the next year can be most accurately estimated. Then, prior to
sending them to the White House for final action, Congress could balance the
revenues and expenditures by either reductions in appropriations or increases in
taxation. A special subcommittee of the House Committee on Appropriations has
been appointed to study this approach.
The House Public Works Committee favorably reported a bill this week which
authorizes the Sanitary District of Chicago to withdraw a total annual average
of 2,500 cubic feet of water per second from Lake Michigan for a 3-year period
during which the effects on the water level can be evaluated. This is an increase
of 1,000 cubic feet per second. It is alleged that this additional diversion
will be less than l inch on Lake Michigan and the effects won't be realized for
several years after the increased drain-off starts.
VISITORS: Mr. Donald W. Magoon, Miss Barbara Damstra, Miss Shirley Williams,
Miss Rosilyn Ghycels, Mr. and Mrs. Weldon Brumels, Mr. and Mrs. Edward Ryder,
Mr. and Mrs. John Wierenga, Mr. and Mrs. T. S. Vanderveen and family, Mr. and
Mss. Harris B. Timmer, Mr. and Mrs. Nick Mol and family, Miss Bertel Buston, Miss
Gloria McAdams, Miss Ruth Brinks, Miss Ruth Leonard, Mr. Ralph Kirch, Mr. and
Mrs. P. B. N rthouse and family, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Vanderhoff and family, Miss
Adaline K. Garcia and Mrs. C. Vorenkamp all of Grand Rapids.
Your Washington Review
KENT
Congressman
OTTAWA
5
JERRY FORD
for release July 14, 1955
The President has urgently recommended that Congress, before adjournment,
approve the following five bills which are a part of his overall legislative
program.
ATOMIC PEACE SHIP: The House may support the construction of an atomic
propelled cargo ship even though it was defeated by the Senate Democrats on a
straight party vote, 42 to 41. There is some cloakroom talk that House Democrats
may abandon partisanship and support Ike's request.
MILITARY RESERVE PROGRAM: The House passed the President's reserve
program and if the grapevine stories are accurate this legislation should have
smooth sailing in the Senate.
HOUSING LEGISLATION: The Senate has approved new housing legislation but
loaded it down with provisions contrary to the President's suggestions. One
such provision authorized 135,000 subsidized low rent housing units annually
at a terrific annual cost for many years to the federal treasury. Ike recommended
35,000 such units annually for legitimate slum clearance in larger cities like
Chicago, Detroit, and New York. I doubt if the House will approve subsidized
housing but will approve the extension of F. H. A. and related programs as
proposed by the White House.
HIGHWAY LEGISLATION: This has already passed the Senate but not in
accord with the Clay Commission Report. The House Committee on Public Works
hasn't made up its mind whether to follow Ike's plan for better highways or some
other version. Undoubtedly a compromise will be worked out on this legislation
prior to adjournment.
FEDERAL AID TO SCHOOL CONSTRUCTION:
This is currently tied up in both
House and Senate committees. This legislation appears to have the least chance
for favorable action this year. The Northern and Southern Democrats are fighting
over the issue of segregation and other similar problems. These intraparty fights
amoungthe Democrats may indefinitely delay any legislation involving federal funds
for school construction.
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW - page 2
DIXON - YATES: The Eisenhower philosophy of electric power development
won another round this week when the President ordered a review of the Dixon-Yates
contract in light of willingness by Memphis, Tennessee to build its own generating
plant. Should Memphis construct its own power facilities the need for the Dixon-
Yates contract will be eliminated as will the need for the Democrat proposed
federally financed steam plant at Fulton, Tennessee.
The President has won a victory for Michigan and U. S. taxpayers whether
a plant is built by Dixon-Yates or by the city of Memphis. All of us in Michigan
will be spared the cost of footing the power bill for this favored area. The
primary responsibility for power needs should be placed upon the area to be served
and I'm glad to see Memphis finally assumes its rightful burden instead of seeking
unwarranted help from taxpayers throughout the U. S.
WATER DIVERSION: The House has passed a bill which authorized the Army
Corps of Engineers to study the effects of allowing the Sanitary District of
Chicago to withdraw 2,500 cubic feet of water a second from Lake Michigan over the
next three years.
I opposed this legislation. As a result of my recommendation in 1952
the Corps of Engineers is now conducting a comprehensive Great Lakes Basin water
level survey. It is my hope that when this survey is completed we will have all
the answers that competent engineers can give us on this perplexing problem.
I feel that we should let the Corps of Engineers finish their job before
any temporary or ill-advised action is taken. The comprehensive survey by the
Army Engineers should be completed within 12 months. I doubt whether Chicago
would be willing to give up this two-thirds increase in diversion after becoming
accustomed to it for three years, even if the Engineers' report is adverse to the
City.
VISITORS IN WASHINGTON: SPRING LAKE - Jane Schroeder, Mr. and Mrs.
Ralph W. Cook. ZEELAND - Mr. and Mrs. Alto Snellin. BELMONT - Robert F. Goldonner.
HUDSONVILLE - Rev. Jack Van Dyken, Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Pohler and family. WEST OLIVE -
Rev. G. B. Rozeboom. LOWELL - Thomas Moore. ALLENDALE - Howard Kraker, Ruth Kraker
Mrs. Harm Kraker, and Mrs. Johanna Kraker. GRAND HAVEN - Lynne Sims, J. B. Sims,
Kay Bronson, Raymond Fisher and family. GRAND RAPIDS - Toby, Louise, Erna, and
Louis Weiner, Mrs. Madelyn Sonigul, Loretta Kersjer, Georgene Thomas, T. J.
Hoffman, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Hoffman, Alice and Hermine Diephuis, Mr. and Mrs. Paul
Johnson and children, Robert and Susan, Mr. and Mrs. N. C. Neesley.
Your Washington Review
KENT
Congressman
OTTAWA
5
JERRY FORD
FOR RELEASE July 21, 1955
Although I am strongly in favor of President Eisenhower's Mutual Security
Program, I feel that Congress was justified in reducing the President's request
for $3.3 billion by about $649 million. As a member of the House Appropriations
Sub-committee on Foreign Operations I participated in debate during the week
to help justify this cut.
In the past, Congress has appropriated funds for specifically outlined
programs only to discover at a later date that by reprogramming the money was
to other uses. We have also found that those who administered the funds have
committed millions of dollars at the very close of the fiscal year inorder to
show a minimum of unobligated funds. The administrators on too many occasions
have had no firm policy forspending this money at the time the request for funds
were made. This isn't good business or sound policy. There has been con-
siderable, in fact much improvement in the management of the foreign aid program
under Ike but that doesn't justify Congress giving a "blank check" to any agency
for the spending of millions of dollars.
It is the duty of Congress and your Congressman to check upon those who
spend our tax dollars and to see that there is no waste or unwise expenditure.
When a close look at a program indicates that it can stand trimming, Congress
has an obligation to cut the burden on our taxpayers.
MEETING AT THE SUMMIT: A leading Republican member of the House Foreign
Affairs Committee, recently expressed one fear about the meeting at "the Summit
when he said, "Russia will offer to give up policies which have been unsuccessful
in return for which the U. S. and our allies may give up policies which have
been successful. ft President Eisenhower and Secretary D, u lles are acutely aware
of this fact and are prepared for every eventuality. I have full confidence
in both the President and his Secretary of State.
I havelearned from a high official in the Administration that the State
Department for months has been anticipating and exploring every conceivable move
the Soviets may make at this meeting in order to be prepared to meet any situation.
The disastrous results at Yalta to a considerable degree stemmed from the lack
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW - Page 2
of preparation by our negotiators prior to the conference. This error is not
being duplicated in 1955. A member of the House in discussing Soviet Russia's
new attitude had this to day. "The Soviet wolf in sheep's clothing is no
different now than before except for a lately given shampool
LABOR IN 1955: On July 1 of this year, George Meany, President of the
AF of L, said that American workers have "never had it so good but we would like
to look forward to an even better day in the future." The facts bear out Mr.
Meany's statement. For instance, employment for June rose to a new high of
64 million, the greatest number in our nation's history. In Michigan, the
employment increase of 81,000 achieved between January and May of 1955 was the
largest ever registered in the first five months of any year. By mid-May our
state's wage and salaried employment had reached 2,334,000 or about 20,000 above
the April level and about 142,000 higher than the May 1954 figure. The Grand
Rapids area alone registered a gain in employment of 900 during the past month.
From all indications the Congress prior to adjournment will approve an
increase in the minimum wage from 75 cents to $1. I will approve this legislation
if and when it comes to the floor of the House. Statements have been made that
minimum wage laws are unwise. This point of view is now academic, because the
Congress more than a decade ago approved the first Wage-Hour Act. A $1.00
minimum today will indirectly and perhaps directly benefit Michigan in that the
sub-standard wages of southern manufacturers will be raised thereby equalizing
to a degree the competitive position of our nothern workers and industry.
"T
ADJOURNMENT: The Democrat leaders in the House and Senate have agreed
Congress will adjourn July 30th. This adjournment date may be alright but the
Congress has an obligation to complete its job and do it well regardless of the
desire of any member or the leadership to adjourn at an early date. Let's be
certain the House and Senate get all their legislative responsivilities done
before closing up shop.
VISITORS IN WASHINGTON: From Grand Rapids: Mr. and Mrs. Emil Schulz and
their two children, Lois and Dick, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Steketee, Mr. and Mrs.
Harm Spaulding, Alice White Johnson. From Sparta: John, Elaine Karen, and Mike
Feichtenbiner. From West Olive: Mr. Richard Radikopf.
Your Washington Review
KENT
Congressman
OTTAWA
5
JERRY FORD
FOR RELEASE July 28, 1955
By July 20 Congress had been in session just about 7 1/2 months. During
this period 125 roll call votes and quorum calls were taken in the House of
Representatives. Your Congressman's attendence record for these roll calls
stands at better than 98 per cent. While answering 123 I was required to miss
two. Those missed were the result of absences from the House floor when I was
leaving for Michigan to fulfilll engagements of long standing.
BACKING THE ADMINISTRATION: Out ot these 123 issues, the "Congressional
Quarterly" selected 29 key measures in which they considered President Eisenhower's
legislative recommendations at stake. Then they figured out the pro-Eisenhower
voting record of each Member of Congress. According to the "Congressional
Quarterly" my own record of 93 per cent places me in a three-way tie in the House
for the highest pro-administration batting average. Only on two issues did
my thinking differ from that of the President.
These two pieces of legislation involved the Alaskan-Hawaii Statehood
bill and the Customs Simplification proposal which, although rather technical,
would change the method of assessing imports for duty. In this latter legislation,
I did not feel that there was sufficient reason to alter the present system of
determining tariff duties. As for the statehood bill, the President had
favored admission of Hawaii but not Alaska. I have consistently advocated the
admission of both territories as the 49th and 50th States of the Union and could
not see the justification for splitting the issue at this time.
WHY SUPPORT IKE? Against the background of my pro-Eisenhower voting
record, just this week I received a letter from a lady who asks, "Why should
a prosperous industrialized state like Michigan send a man to Washington, to
make laws to please the President instead of the people of his state?
I support President Eisenhower because I am convinced his legislative
program is in the best interests of our Nation and State. In view of Ike's
tremendous national and world-wide popularity, and because he is the represen-
tative of all the American people, including those in Michigan who gave him
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW - page 2
a handsome 320,000 vote majority in 1952, I feel that by supporting the President
I am serving the best interests of the people of Michigan and the Fifth Con-
gressional District. Furthermore, President Eisenhower is not only the great
leader of our country but he is head of the Republican Party. I believe that
much more can be accomplished by a team effort. This doesn't mean members of
Congress should be "rubber stamps" for the President, far from it, but in the
long run more constructive results can be accomplished if everyone is headed in
the same general direction.
CONGRESS AND THE PRESIDENT: Through the end of June the President had
a .260 batting average on the proposals he submitted to Congress. Of 200 legis-
lative requests Ike has made to the Democrat 84th Congress only 52 have been
approved. Seventy-nine have met with partial progress and 59 have been tossed
aside with no action. Five issues. have been set back and another five rejected
completely. In the 83rd Republican Congress during 1953 and 1954 Ike had a
.659 batting average.
HOOVER COMMISSION PROGRESS "Gobbledegook" is something we run up against
in the day-to-day business of government. It may refer to letters over-laden
with words and clauses--in fact it may be used to denote any governmental enter-
prise, however large or small, but done to excess or carried to extremes. Re-
cently an example of "gobbledegook" came into my office. It was a single-spaced
one and a half page letter from the Department of the Army to tell me they
would not express an opinion on a certain matter because it was a responsibility
of the Veterans Administration.
The final report of the Hoover Commission said that red tape is costing
the government and industry millions of dollars of unnecessary expense. The
Eisenhower A,ministration has taken more than 50 steps to carry out 145 recom-
mendations of the Commission and the Budget Bureau and Defense Department are
setting up units to consider and promote others. As a result we can look forward
to great savings in taxpayer dollars.
VISITORS in WASHINGTON From Grand Rapids, Mr. and Mrs. Roscoe MiNER and
daughter Lynn, Mr. Harold R. Van't Hof, Mr. Richard D. Ver Veer, Miss Ruth Cole.
From Cedar Springs, Miss Charlene Rayce, Miss Barbara Price. From Belmont,
Miss Valerie Lasher. From Zeeland, Miss Marjorie Hoeve. From Hudsonville, Miss
Eris Dalman.
Your Washington Review
KENT
Congressman
OTTAWA
5
JERRY FORD
FOR RELEASE August 4, 1955
During the past week the House shattered all hope for passage of any
new highway legislation for this session of Congress. And in doing so it knocked
a big whole in President Eisenhower's list of "must legislation" for the 84th
Congress.
Everybody agrees that a safe and efficient interstate highway network is
essential to our Nation's welfare. But as so often happens with projects re-
quiring large expenditures of money, the death knell is struck by those who may
honestly differ over the method of financing. This was the point in the road
construction bill.
The President's Highway Program, based on the Clay Report, was beaten
down by a vote of 221 to 193. I favored the President's plan which suffered
defeat almost exclusively along partisan lines. The Republicans stood by Ike
and the Democrats rejected his solution for better highways at the earliest pos-
sible date. The Administration's proposal would have set up a Federal Highway
Corporation as an independent agency of the government to issue bonds and administer
the highway program. The 30-year bonds would be secured by the U. S. Government,
but it was estimated that they could be paid off with the anticipated increase
in revenue from the already established federal excise taxes on highway users.
President Eisenhower estimated that under his expanded highway construction program
traffic would double in 15 years. If that is so, existing federal taxes on
highway users would bring in twice as much revenue. This "pay-as-you-go" policy
made sense to me.
The alternative to this program of bond financing was a bill sponsored by
Rep. Fallon, Democrat of Maryland, and was submitted to the House by a majority
of the Committee on Public Works. I voted against this bill which went down to
defeat 292 to 123.
Had the Fallon Bill passed, I feel a whole chain of new discriminatory and
inequitable taxes on consumers would have resulted. It called for $12,423 million
to be raised in 15 years on increased taxes from gasoline, tires, deisel fuel,
inner tubes, and more excise taxes on buses, trucks, and trailers. For instance
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW - page 2
Michigan has a 6¢ state gas tax as well as the existing 2¢ federal tax. This adds
up to an 8¢ tax presently paid by Michigan car owners on each gallon of gas purchased.
The Fallon Bill sponsored by the Democrats as an alternative to Ike's plan would
have increased this to 9 per gallon.
High Democratic leadership in the House has intimated that new road legis-
lation is killed for the next session of Congress, too. If true, this will be un-
fortunate for our entire nation. A safe and efficient highway network is essential
to America's military and civil defense, and to the future economic prosperity of
our Nation. I hope the Democrat party leaders will accept Ike's suggestion that a
compromise on highway financing be worked out. It is too important to let parti-
samship prevail.
THE SUMMIT Newspapers all over the world hailed the success which met the
President at the "Summit." London's Liberal News Chronical had this to say about
the Geneva meeting. "Twice Eisenhower hoisted the meeting to the true summit. Not
a thousand speeches in Congress or the House of Commons, not a hundred inter--
governmental notes, could have done what one man did who could be seen and heard
as he spoke."
It is especially significant to me that President Eisenhower surrendered
nothing: no territory, no established American policies, and no moral or ethical
principles. Furthermore, nothing was done in secret; all proposals and discussion
are known to the peoples of the world. And genuine progress toward peace has been
achieved. An atmosphere has been created in which we can work out some of the more
serious international disagreements. This is world statemanship at its best.
IKE'S BUSY SCHEDULE On Friday morning July 29th Ike had breakfast with
Republican members of the Congress, his Cabinet and the White House staff. As he
spoke informally for 15 minutes I marveled at his ability to do what he has done
so ably in the past two weeks. Here is just a part of that schedule: Ike ne-
gotiated skillfully and successfully at the "Summit" meeting in Geneva. On his
return he reported directly to the American people and in addition fully briefed
top Democrats and Republican leaders on what transpired in his conferences with
the Soviet leaders and our allies. He kept abreast of legislative developments
on Capitol Hill. He earnestly urged Republican legislators at the breakfast to work
as a team for an affirmative and dynamic program in the Congress. Yet with all
these burdens and responsibilities, Ike looks wonderful and acts healthmer than ever.
Your Washington Review
KENT
Congressman
OTTAWA
5
JERRY FORD
FOR RELEASE August 18, 1955
Congress broke through the usual last-minute legislative log jam to adjourn
about midnight on Tuesday, August 2nd, and barring a special session, will reconvene
on January 3, 1956.
In this session members of the House introduced 7,869 bills, and Senators
2,759. Also sponsored were several hundred resolutions on various subjects. Pro-
bably the most outstanding result of this Congress has been the conspicuous lack
of any big issues or really crucial legislation emerging from these many bills.
Congressional leadership came up with no original or dramatic legislation of its
own in the session's seven-month life span.
We concluded on a note of disharmony though, when the Democrat leadership,
unable to pass its own scheme to finance a national highway program through increased
gas and tire taxes, also defeated President Eisenhower's road-construction program.
Now while America's traffic problems grow worse with crowding highways and increasing
accident tolls, the highway bill lies dead in the House. I hope this legislation
will be one of the very first matters taken up in the next session of Congress.
Your Congressman would favor a special Congressional session to get action on the
badly needed highway legislation which the country needs NOW.
Congress refused to act on much important legislation which President Eisen-
hower considered essential to bur Nation's progress and welfare. Among these
measures were the schoolhouse construction bill, the President's plan for an atomic
powered vessel, statehood for Hawaii, the President's health reinsurance program.
ON THE ASSET SIDE Although Congress didn't do as good a job on legislation as the
President has done in the field of foreign relations, we can point to a number of
nóteworthy and positive features of the recent session. Congress passed the $1
minimum wage which should go far to raise the living standards of many workers
throughout the country. The White House program for a modern, balanced military
force was accepted, the draft was extended for four years, and Ike's long-sought
Armed Forces reserve plan was approved. Except for the public housing feature and
several other questionable provisions the housing bill was good legislation.
is
LIBRARY
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW - page 2
SPENDTHRIFT CONGRESS In the Republican 83rd Congress on the President's recommenda-
tions the House and Senate reduced federal taxes by over $7 billions annually.
This was the largest tax cut made by any Congress during the history of the United
States. The reduction was made possible only by the increased economy and efficiency
in the federal government under Ikd's leadership.
Through pursuing a policy of taking more federal responsibility in additional
areas of local responsibility, the current Democrat Congress may rightly be tabbed
a "spendthrift" Congress. A careful analysis of the appropriation bills approved
by this Congress indicates that many of Ike's proposals for reductions in expendi-
tures have been ignored by the Democrat leadership in Congress. Most of the "claimed"
reductions in the President's budget were really only bookkeeping manipulations.
Furthermore this Congress has failed to take advantage of the Hoover Commission
recommendations which are aimed at making government more economical and efficient.
FOREIGN POLICY ACCOMPLISHMENTS In the field of foreign relations President Eisen-
hower has met with outstanding success with not only the Russian leaders but the
Democrat Congress as well. He started out in January with an overwhelming vote of
approval on a resolution to defend Formosa. This has been followed by a three-
year extension of Reciprocal Trade, ratification of the Paris Pact, Austrian Peace
Treaty, South East Asia Treaty Organization and the Nationalist China Defense Pact.
IKE IN EXCELLENT HEALTH On Tuesday of this week, President Eisenhower held a
reception in the Rose Garden of the White House for the staff members of Republican
Congressmen. Frank Meyer, my administrative assistant from Grand Haven, Miss
Mildred Leonard, who lives in Washingto n and keeps this office open all the year
around, and Barry Brand from Grand Rapids, all members of my staff attended this
affair. Miss Irene Schroeder, my other secretary from Grand Rapids was on vacation
and therefore unable to attend.
Although the temperature was in the high 90s and the humidity extremely
typical of a moggy summer day in Washington, all three reported to me later that
Ike was in excellent health when he came out to greet all the Republican staff
members. He appeared robust, in fine spirits and rather sun-tanned. They all agreed
that the President must be in top physical condition which is responsible in large
part for the cheerfulness and enthusiasm by which he tackles his job in the White
House.
Your Washington Review
KENT
Congressman
OTTAWA
5
JERRY FORD
FOR RELEASE August 26, 1955
A member of Congress after adjournment and before the next session recon-
venes has two major government responsibilities. First, and this is un-
doubtedly foremost, a Congressman should spend as much time as possible among
his constituents to get their reactions in connection with executive policies,
the previous legislative session, and the session coming up.
I have a full 4-month schedule in Kent and Ottawa Counties starting
on September 6th during which time your Congressman looks forward to any
"grass-roots" observations, comments, and suggestions about the operation
of our federal government. My office in Grand Rapids will be open during
August, September, October, November, and December and in addition I plan
to visit all communities in the 5th District one or more times in this period.
Your views, recommendations, and problems are welcomed.
Second, a member of the House of Representatives or the Senate has
an obligation between Congressional sessions to see how government funds are
being spent and whether or not policies are being carried out by the execu-
tive branch of the government in conformity with legislative intent. This
function of the Congress can best be performed by first-hand investigation
and analysis. Reading reports in Washington, D. C. on what the Army, Navy,
and Air Force are doing in Germany or Korea is not nearly as effective as
seeing the operation in the field many miles from the Nation's Capital.
The Committee on Appropriations, and your Congressman has been a
member of the group for 5 years, is primarily interested in how U. S. dollars
are being spent at home and abroad. My particular subcommittees are directly
connected with the Department of Defense and the foreign aid program. For
the preservation of world peace and the defense of America the U. S. has
many military installations and personnel stationed in practically all Anti-
Communist countries. The total dollars spent each year by our government to
build up the "Free Nations" and maintain the "peace" are staggering but if
the basic policies are successful, the effort and burden is worthwhile.
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW - page 2
Certainly another war would be far more costly in lives and dollars.
This all leads up to why your Congressman spent 10 days in France,
Germany, and the Netherlands between August 8th and 18th. It was a rugged
bug very worthwhile investigating trip on behalf of my committee. Upon my
return to Washington a full report of my findings will be filed with the
Chairman of the Committee. For the next several weeks my weekly newsletter
will contain my personal observations on the status of our Armed Forces in
Europe and my impressions of conditions on the countries visited.
The trip from Washington, D. C to Paris via Military Air Transport
Service along with 45 other U. S. government employees and military personnel
was without incident. We left the Nation's Capital just a day or two before
Hurricane Connie drenched the eastern eaboard including I'm certain, Betty,
Mike, and Jack. I'll hear more about that when I get home with the family.
The first leg of the flight, about 2400 miles from Washington tothe
Azores took 9 1/2 hours. After a two-hour layover for aircraft refueling
and breakfast for the passengers the plane took off for the 1400 mile six-hour
flight to Paris.
The first order of business in Europe was a conference with General
Alfred Gruenther, the top military man at the North Atlantic Treaty head-
quarters just outside of Paris. General Gruenther has been Commander of all
NATO forces since 1953. President Eisenhower, then General "Ike," was the
first military head of the allied forces when the joint defense program was
initially organized in 1951.
Ike's problem four years ago was to sell the European nations on the
idea of a unified military effort for the common defense of the Free World
against Communist aggression. General Gruenther's aim in the past several
years has been the implementation of plans from a paper organization to a
strong joint allied military force. Substantial progress has been made in
this anti-communist build up. NATO's military fibre today is impressive
especially to those dictators behind the Iron Curtain. This ever-growing
strength in my opinion has convinced the Russians in the Kremlin that a waf
with the U. S. and its allies now or in the future would likely result in
their defeat. The Soviet leaders appreciating the determination of NATO to
build up military defenses haveenow launched their "peace offensive." Our
problem today in the Free World, including the U. S., Europe, and Asia, is to
seek an enduring peace but to realize peace is attained not from weakness but
from strength.
Your Washington Review
KENT
Congressman
OTTAWA
5
JERRY FORD
FOR RELEASE September 2, 1955
What actually happens when a member of Congress appears at NATO head-
quarters for a conference with General Gruenther and his allied nation staff?
After the half-hour drive from Paris you arrive at the area in an American-
made car which gets through the well-guarded gate without difficulty. Flags
from all the NATO nations are flown on the lawn in front of a functional-type
building. Without delay or formality you are whisked directly to General
Gruenther's private office which is about the size of a modest American-home
living room. Charts and maps of Europe from the Scandinavian countries to
Turkey cover much of the wall space.
General Gruenther himself is a friendly, informal person of medium but
trim build. He is most anxious to lay before you the full picture, not only the
progress which has been made in 4 years, the headaches which exist now, but also
the future good and bad. The General has appeared before my committee several
times in Washington plus the conference at NATO headquarters. On each occasion
I have been impressed with his vast knowledge of not only the military situation
but the interrelated economic and political problems involving the U. S. and
our European allies. He is candid and factual to the highest degree.
Such a confreence lasts about an hour. He points with pride to the
progress NATO has made to the defense of the Free World. Among many he mentioned
one simple but dramatic case. Four years ago when NATO was in its infancy it
took General Gruenther 12 hours to get Oslo, Norway on the telephone from Paris
headquarters and part of the telephone lines went through the Soviet Zone of
Germany. You can visualize how the Russians could easily tap the wires in those
hectic days. Today a phone call from NATO headquarters goes through to Oslo in
three minutes with nc assistance or rather interference from the Scviets.
In an easy but precise and knowledgeable manner General Gruenther points
out that several years ago NATO had 15 impotent, combined Army divisions which
were only a token resistance to the mobilized strength of the Scviet Army and
its satellites. This preponderance of military power in the hands of the Kremlin
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW - page 2
provided no incentive to Bulganin or Khruschev to talk peace.
Referring to one cf the many charts in his office the General points
out that in 1952 NATO had less than 20 airfields adequate to handle jet aircraft.
In 1955 NATO has 160 jet airbases in the defense zone which starts in northern
Norway, covers western Europe and terminates in eastern Turkey. This potent re-
taliatory airpower which the U. S. and its allies possess, in my opinion, has
contributed significantly to the peace overtures from the Reds.
After an hour of information-seeking questions and fully responsive answers,
the General suggested that perhaps I might like to talk with General Norstad,
who heads up all NATO air operations. This gave me an excellent opportunity to
prcbe into the aircraft and airfield details of the allied forces.
Over the years from 1942 I have heard a great deal abcut this young and
highly competent combat strategist in cur U. S. Air Force. In many ways he
reminded me of the late General Vandenberg, former Chief of Staff of the Air
Force, who had well-known family roots in Western Michigan.
We discussed a particular program which General Norstad has sponscred
among several NATO ccuntries whereby they would develop and produce new jet
military aircraft so the burden would be less and less cn the U. S. I asked
him specifically about the pctency of the Soviet Airforce. His reply was re-
assuring, emphasizing that the NATO air staff was not "surprised" by the alleged
Soviet aircraft developments of the past 12 months. Unquestionably the Red Air-
force has improved in recent months but there is no doubt in the minds cf those
who should know that the U. S. Air Force and its allies are far better equipped
and trained than the Soviets and satellite air contingents.
These conferences with NATO commanders didn't end my day. For four hours
I had several conferences and briefings on strictly U. S. Armed Forces matters
in the European Theater. Personnel, fiscal and accounting problems rather than
strategic military matters took up most of my time in those meetings. Needless
to say the day, a full one, was both interesting and productive.
Your Washington Review
KENT
Congressman
OTTAWA
5
JERRY FORD
FOR RELEASE September 8, 1955
In five days one can hardly see and fully appraise today's West Germany but in
travelling to and from Heidelberg, Stuttgart, Bayreuth, Hof, and Berlin a vivid im-
pression remains with me that the recent resurgence of the Germans has made the Soviet
rulers greatly worried. My committee trip was primarily aimed at inspecting U. S.
Army personnel and financial management but I also had the mission of analyzing
West German readiness to receive U, S. military equipment as a partner in the defense
of the anti-communist family of nations.
The West German economy today is bursting with production and prosperty.
Apparently the German people want to prove to the world that they can join the
U. S. and others as a democratic, free-enterprise nation. The disgrace of Hitler
and the Nazi they want the world to forget. Most informed sources with whom I
talked indicate Germans intend in the future to erect definite safeguards against
Naziism and a resurgence of Prussian military rule.
Heidelberg, my first stop, was hardly touched by World War II. I had lunch
with General McAuliffe, who heads up U. S Army forces in Europe. He was the troop
commander in W. W. II who replied "nuts" when the Germans demanded he surrender
his forces at Bastogne. A detailed briefing on overall Army policy in the area was
followed by a flight to Stuttgart for a conference with various field commanders.
Stuttgart was badly bombed during the last war and much evidence of U. S.
Air Force attacks still exists. Nevertheless the rebuilding job has moved ahead to
an amazing degree. Today as one stands in areas destroyed 10 years ago you are
inevitably impressed with the necessity of keeping America strong militarily.
The next day I inspected the arrival of a new U. S. Army unit at Bayreuth
and the departure of a similar group for the U. S. It was a part of our Army's
program to rotate divisions intact with the one from the "States" replacing the
"old hands" right in the field. Under this personnel rotation plan the new unit
takes over the equipment, the quarters, and the deployment assignment with a minimum
of effort and expense. To find out for myself I discussed the details of this
operation with privates, sargeants, and lower.' - ranking officers in both outfits.
All were enthusiastic.
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW - page 2
Incidentally when I was in Bayreuth the annual Wagnerian Festival was in
progress. We drove around the grounds and walked in the opera house which Wagner
designed himself. Unfortunately there wasn't time to see and hear one of the
festival events but it was tremendously impressive to get just a bit of the local
atomsphere.
From Bayreuth I flew in a small Army plane to Hof, Germany which is within
a few miles of the Iron Curtain between Czechoslavakia and free Germany. Here I
inspected an Army unit with a particularly important military mission. We were
still several miles from the Soviet border SO I flew in a helicopter, up to but
not over the Iron Curtain.
From the air you look down to see how the Soviets have plowed about a 20-
yard strip all along their side of the line. This freshly plowed strip apparently
makes it easier for them to track down Austrian, German, Czech, and other satellite
defectors who want freedom from the iron fist of communism.
The helicopter with the pilot and your Congressman landed at one of the very
small U. S. Army outposts not many yards from the border. I talked with the G.I.s
who are manning 24-hours a day the very rim of our defenses. These American boys
in these vital posts have a serious responsibility as they watch the Soviet and
satellite forces across a few fields and the plowed strip. This small unit and others
like them are our "eyes and ears" in the front line of defense against any Soviet
aggression. Their morale is high and they get the best the Army can provide under
these difficult conditions. Believe me, they appreciate their responsibility and are
doing the job well.
While at the border outpost and at Hof I interviewed several of the German
border patrol. These native German police units assist the NATO forces in their
homeland in the detection and apprehension of Soviet agents who seek to slip behind
our lines. The German border patrolmen with highly trained dogs and tommyguns make
it tough for Soviet and satellite spies.
Again it was a long day for we flew back from Hof, to Nuremberg and then to
Berlin. Next week's newsletter will include my observations on Berlin which as you
all know is afree island in the center of the Soviet backyard.
I hope to see as many of you as possible at the Republican Fifth Congressional
District family picnic on Sepgember 10th at Kollen Park, in Holland. The picnic will
begin at 2:30. A pot luck supper and prizes will highlight the affair.
Your Washington Review
KENT
Congressman
OTTAWA
5
JERRY FORD
FOR RELEASE September 15, 1955
Flying into Berlin over Russian occupied Germany gives one a very strange
feeling. During the flight up the 20-mile wide air corridor from Western Germany
to Berlin I chatted with the plane crew and as we flew the pilot pointed out
several Red airfields lined with jet fighters, and a couple of Soviet Army bases
with well-used infantry and tank training areas. Paradoxically, just that day
the Kremlin had announced the Soviet Armed Forces would be slashed 640,000 by
December 1955. Do they mean it? What is the overall significance?
First and foremost the peoples of the world should emphatically understand
that in the past two years the United States has reduced its Armed Forces by
450,000 and cut the annual military expenditures by $7 to $10 billion. In
the same period the Soviets have openly admitted increased military budgets and
greater numbers in the Red Army, Navy, and Air Force. In other words, the
Kremlin in 1955 is only doing (if they actually do it) what the U. S. has done
in the previous 2 years.
The Berlin airport is Templehof, Hitler's fabulous air terminal in the
center of the city with a population of 3 million. Despite the tremendous U. S.
Air Force bombings of Berlin itself, Templehof was not too badly damaged.
For the next two and a:half:days I inspected the U. S. Troops, their
barracks and their mission in this city with 4 separate geographical sectors under
the domination of the British, French, Russians, and the U. S. This lack of a
really unified municipal government is an undesirable situation in many ways, but
the U. S. with substantial German cooperation has been able 'in its sector to
expedite economic recovery and war damage reconstruction. This is in vivid
contrast with the lack of similar progress in the Russian zone. One can hardly
visualize without seeing it first hand the untouched rubble and half destroyed
walls that still haunt the Russian-dominated portion of Berlin.
It is most difficult to comprehend why the Reds have made only a minimum
effort to rebuild their Berlin zone. It is contended by Berliners that Russia
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW - page 2
leaves the many blocks of war ruin as a bitter reminder to the Germans of their
folly in invading Russia in 1941. This attitude to say the least is sadistic.
It is in direct contrast to America's policy which is aimed at political and
economic reconstruction. No Naziism or Prussianism in the political-military
field but at the same time a strong, free enterprise, democratically controlled
nation with sufficient military strength tied in with the anti-communist world.
In Berlin I met several G. I.s from Western Michigan, saw their quarters,
ate lunch in their unit mess and talked with their officers. The U. S. military
forces in Berlin are excellent American emissaries from top to bottom and are
making a substantial contribution to favorable German-American post-war relations.
One evening an official in the U. S. Department of State stationed in
Berlin had a small dinner party with a prominent German elected official as a
guest. It was interesting and enlightening to discuss with him local German,
European, and world politics. He was well informed on the U. S., having spent
some time in America after the war. Furthermore he expressed the firm conviction
that Germany, whatever her international and internal problems might be, was
adamantly opposed to the Communist philosophy and deeply appreciative of and
attached to the United States.
Before leaving Berlin I spent a few hours driving around the Russian Zone
of Berlin. The people who unfortunately must live in that area look grim and
discouraged when you see them on the streets. The shop windows are not filled
with usable goods for the civilian population and I'm told the quality of the
merchandise is vastly inferior to that produced in Western Germany.
I asked the German driver of the car what he thought about the difference
between the Russian and American Zones of Berlin and our economic philosophies.
His practical, down-to-earth reply made sense and is worth remembering. According
to him a Russian Zone German must work 4 times as long as the German in the
Allied or free sector of Berlin to earn sufficient money to buy a pair of shoes
unequal in quality. This was his simple but effective way of saying he and
practically all Germans want no part of Communism with its failing economic
and political philosophy.
Next week, my comments on a three-day visit to the Netherlands.
Your Washington Review
KENT
Congressman
OTTAWA
5
JERRY FORD
FOR RELEASE September 22, 1955
The last leg of the European Committee trip from Berlin to Amsterdam was
mostly in soupy flying weather, but as we approached the City of Amsterdam the
skies cleared and for the next three days we had ideal climate. The Dutch
themselves complained it was much too hot (80 degrees) but compared to August
in Washington or Michigan it was delightful.
Amsterdam from the air or on the ground makes several distinct impressions,
order and cleanliness. The more one travels about in Holland other characteristics
appear. They are businesslike but friendly and mighty proud of the terrific
economic recovery made in Holland since the end of World War II. Today in the
Netherlands there is virtually no unemployment. For the past several years the
Dutch government has been extremely farsighted in seeking new industries sponsored
by foreign capital including the U. S.
The first day I spent talking with the U. S. Army, Air Force, and Navy
attaches who are on the staff of the American Ambassador at the Hague. Over the
years there has been considerable criticism of the military attache system. The
main contention has been that too many military people have been tied up in this
non-combatant field. In addition many have argued that instead of each service,
(Army, Navy, and Air) having a separate attache staff there should be just one
under a single officer.
I went into this specific problem in some detail in our Embassy in the
Netherlands. Analysis indicated no overstaffing in this post. There is logic to
the policy of an officer from each branch of the service being assigned to a
country. The military attaches have the exclusive mission to collect Army, Navy
and Air Force intelligence in the country where assigned. An Air Force officer
wouldn't be too well equipped to collect military intelligence on Dutch naval
ships and policies or vice versa.
Also talked at length with our U. S. military advisory officials who are
working with the Dutch Army. Over the years the Netherlands has had an exception-
ally fine Navy but the Air Force is new and the Army has traditionally played
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW - page 2
"second fiddle. Now under her NATO commitments the Dutch are expanding and
improving the Army and Air Force. The U. S. is helping by making equipment
and training officers available. Progress is probably slower than most authori-
ties would like but the Dutch are part of NATO's backbone and will unquestionably
increase their potency in the contest to prevent Soviet encroachments on the
Free World. Incidentally, the Dutch are rightfully proud of their contribution
of an Army battalion to the U. N. Forces in the Korean War.
In driving around the Dutch countryside while travelling from Amsterdam,
to Rotterdam, to the Hague and to other areas where conferences were held I
learned to admire the fine highway network that covers all of Holland. They
not only build excellent roads but in conjunction construct paralleling and
comparable bicycle paths. It is almost unbelievable the number of Dutch of
all ages who use the bike as the main source of transportation.
One of the highlights of my entire committee trip was an hour's visit with
Prince Bernhard at the Royal Palace at Soestdijk. I had met him in 1952 when
the Queen and the Prince visited America and specifically Western Michigan.
Protocol probably precludes me from repeating our conversation but I can
certainly indicate my tremendous admiration for his intense and constructive
interest in world-wide problems affecting not only his own people but all
nations.
Prince Bernhard recalled the warm reception given the Royal Family in
Grand Rapids, along the highway and in the City of Holland. His memory of
incidents and local people was astounding.
From Soestdijk to Amsterdam, to the airport and then the long flight back.
Aside from mechanical trouble in one engine, it conked out between Newfoundland
and New York, the return to Washington was uneventful.
A lot of territory was covered in 10 days and in my opinion with worth-
while results. A comprehensive report will be filed with my Committee Chairman
and in the next session of the Congress, which starts January 3, 1956, your
Congressman will be better prepared to do his committee job.
Your Washington Review
KENT
Congressman
OTTAWA
5
JERRY FORD
FOR RELEASE September 29, 1955
Now after two weeks of visiting the smaller communities in Ottawa County
in my "mobile office" I feel a growing understanding of local attitudes and
feeling toward many matters of public concern. On Monday, October 3, when I
go to Marne from 2:30 until 8:00 p.m. I will have visited 10 communities in
Ottawa County. Then on Tuesday, October 4, I will move into Kent County starting
at Cedar Springs followed by Kent City, Wednesday, Sand Lake, Thursday, and Sparta
on Monday, October 10.
I am finding a great deal of pleasure and satisfaction in meeting local
residents in this informal manner. I want to emphasize that you and your neighbors
are most welcome to drop by either to exchange greetings or discuss any personal
or national problem which may be troubling you. Or if you wish to question me
about my voting record, which is available in the trailer, I will be happy to
discuss it with you.
So far the two main problems brought to my attention concern social security
and the farm situation. Many elderly persons have asked me questions about their
eligibility to receive benefits under the social security law. Also, a great
deal of interest is shown toward future legislation in this important field.
Farmers of the Fifth District are concerned about present conditions in our
agricultural economy. However, most agree there is improvement this year compared
to 1954. I am sounding out as many farmers as possible to help discover specifi-
cally their problems and their recommendations for programs to improve our agri-
cultural economy. Also, I am explaining positive plans being worked out by the
Republican Administration to help the farmer. Distinct progress has been made
and more can be expected.
The third subject most generally brought to my attention was the military.
Young men soon to face military service questioned me as to the best time and way
to fulfill this obligation. A large number of veterans have asked me to find
answers to specific questions about their individual status with regard to the
reserve or veteran benefits. But interest in the military goes beyond those who
will or have participated actively in our national defense. Our citizens appear
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW - page 2
to support President Eisenhower's military policies and question the experience
and judgment of his critics.
My "mobile office" is a 31-foot house trailer with two rooms. One of these
is a reception room and the other an office for private and individual discussions.
I have placed in the reception room a number of government publications which are
of interest to many people. One of these, entitled "Family Fare," is a cookbook
published by the Department of Agriculture which has attracted the most interest.
Some of the other publications available include "Infant Care," my voting record,
social security information, military academy catalogues, and budget information.
I will conclude my "mobile office" tour on November 2nd at Standale. By
this time I hope to have detailed and constructive impressions about the attitudes
and opinions of the citizens in Kent and Ottawa counties.
The fine work being done by the 850 residents of Kent and Ottawa Counties
who comprise the Ground Observer Corps has become more and more obvious to me
since my return home from Washington. These people are unselfishly devoting time
end effort to filling the gaps left by radar in our air defense system.
Vclunteers serve two-hour periods with one other person perched in elevated
observation posts at eight-mile intervals throughout the countryside. Naturally
his "first line of civilian defense" is national in scope. However, broken down
to our own Fifth District it adds up to 23 required observation posts. Of these,
15 are in Kent County and eight are in Ottawa County.
The importance of the work done by the Ground Observer Corps cannot be
over-emphasized. Yet an adequate job is not being done in Kent and Ottawa Counties
because of too few volunteers. Only two posts are manned 24-hours a day. This
means 168 persons have volunteered to keep each of these on a full-time alert. Out
of the 15 posts in Kent County six are inactive as are three posts in Ottawa County.
Those remaining posts on part-time duty are averaging 16 operational hours per day.
I hope you can see the acute need for additional volunteers to complete
the splendid work already being done in the Ground Observer Corps. This work
contributes greatly to our national safety.
Your Washington Review
KENT
Congressman
OTTAWA
5
JERRY FORD
FOR RELEASE October 6, 1955
PRESIDENT EISENHOWER'S ILLNESS
At the time of this writing it is still a little premature to draw any
definite conclusions with regard to President Eisenhower's illness and his future
in public life. Of one thing we can be sure however, that is, Mr. Eisenhower
always has been a team player in running our national and international affairs.
Therefore, under his Administration we can be sure his policies and our affairs of
state will continue to function smoothly and efficiently during the President's
convalescence with the team organization he has set up.
In the meantime let us all pray for his full and speedy recovery to a
complete and useful life.
The greatest advantage for me in taking my "mobile office" into the 27
smaller communities of Kent and Ottawa Counties is the opportunity to discover
just what the people I represent in Washington are thinking about. It gives to
the people I am meeting a chance to also meet at first hand their Congressman
who represents them in the Nation's Capital.
The reasons which are bringing people to my "mobile office" vary a great
deal. But in all I am greatly impressed by how well informed the people of the
Fifth District I have met are on many matters of national importance. I am
learning much from talking with them.
MILITARY RESERVE TRAINING
It is apparent that the Reserve Forces Act of 1955, signed into law by the
President on August 9th, is becoming a more real force in the maintenance of our
national security. The primary purpose of this act is to provide the trained
manpower required by the reserve forces should the need for mobilization ever arise.
This Reserve Act creates three categories of possible reservist training.
One plan is designed for young men under 18 1/2 years of age who wish to perform
six months of active duty training at $50 a month in the grade of private. This
is followed by participation in reserve unit training for the remainder of eight
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW - page 2
years. Another way to perform a reserve obligation would be to serve two years'
active duty followed by service as a member of the ready reserve for a period
which, when added to active-duty time, totals five years.
The third category applies to persons who were serving on active duty when
the act became law and are released from active duty prior to July 1, 1957. These
persons may join a reserve unit and participate for 1 year which fulfills their
Ready Reserve obligation. The remainder of the eight years may be spent in the
Standby Reserve.
POST OFFICE ECONOMY
With its 40,000 outlets and one-half million employees our Post Office
Department is actually the world's largest business. It handles on an average
175 million pieces of mail each day and as a side line it operates the world's
largest savings bank. In past years the Post Office Department has shown annual
deficits of about $500 million. This deficit has had to be made up out of the
general tax receipts.
This year the situation is encouragingly different. Policies adopted by
Postmaster General Arthur Summerfield and put into operation this year will reduce
this usual deficit to $360 million, saving the American taxpayer $140 million.
And according to Summerfield new methods and policies are being worked out which
will bring additional savings in the future with promises of improving service.
DEFENSE AND SMALL BUSINESS
During the first six months of this year defense contract awards to
small businesses totalled 23 per cent of all those made by the Department of
Defense. This compares most favorably with an average of 18.8 per cent for the
preceding four and one-half years. It is gratifying to see small firms getting
a larger share of defense procurement. In June alone these small business concerns
received $632,000,000 in net defense contract awards.
Your Washington Review
KENT
Congressman
OTTAWA
5
JERRY FORD
FOR RELEASE October 14, 1955
Much is being said about agriculture, present farm prosperity and its
possible impact at election time. Before we make up our minds about the farm question,
first we should attempt to pinpoint the problem in realistic terms, and then find
the causes so as to eliminate them.
Is farm income declining and are we in a so-called "agriculture depression?"
Per capita net income of farm people was $930 in 1952, $904 in 1953, and $907 in
1954. Farm real estate valuations jumped by two per cent from 1954 to 1955. Farm
debts are only 11 per cent of farm assets, as compared with 19 per cent in 1940
and 21 per cent in 1930.
On the other hand, the parity ratio, which describes prices received by
farmers against those paid for goods and services, dropped from 113 in February, 1951
to 94 in January 1953. Now it stands at 84. So almost two-thirds of the drop in
farm prices took place between 1951 and January 1953, and this was under a Democrat
Administration. One-third of the drop in farm prices has taken place under Ike's
Administration.
A REAL SOLUTION
During World War II the United States placed agriculture on an emergency
war-time footing geared to increase food production. This war footing was based
on rigid price supports for corn, cotton, wheat, tobacco, rice, and peanuts and the
program was in effect until the 1955 harvest. The Republican 83rd Congress enacted
a flexible price support plan to apply for the first time to this fall's crops.
Under the Democrat rigid price support policy farm prices not only started to decline
but some $7.5 billion worth of surpluses were accumulated and it does cost the
federal treasury a million dollars per day for storage fees on these surpluses.
This year total agriculture production may break all records.
Now Secretary of Agriculture Ezra Taft Benson's efforts to shrink the govern-
ment-held surpluses and to modify the role of government in "managed Agriculture"
are piling up illogical, inaccurate, and distorted political charges against him.
Yet it seems that in order to place our agricultural economy on a permanent and solid
footing, we need (1) to reduce our surpluses and (2), equate production with markets.
The Republican farm policies are working toward these goals. The flexible
support program was legislated with this goal. Secretary Benson is making vigorous
and imaginative efforts to discover new outlets at home and abroad for our farm
produce. Agriculture exports were increased in the past 12 months by almost 10
per cent. Research is being conducted with many types of products to find new and
expanded uses for them. Likewise, in the field of marketing research much effort is
being directed to holding down costs and improving marketing efficiency.
I don't want to oversimplify or explain away the plight of our farmers. As
I am talking to farmers ofthe Fifth District in my "mobile office" I learn of their
attitudes and problems. At the conclusion of my comprehensive tour of Kent and
Ottawa Counties I will undoubtedly know the general point of view of our Fifth
District farmers. At that time I will give a full report.
STRENGTHENING FREE ENTERPRISE
American businessmen, encouraged by the prosperous economic outlook, plan to
spend about four per cent more for new buildings and equipment this year than they
spent last year. The Office of Business Economics says business will spend about
$27.8 billion for expansion in 1955 compared to $26.8 billion last year.
And while prosperity continues the Republican Administration has been trimming
many government costs and cutting unnecessary personnel off the payrolls. When
President Eisenhower took office there were 2,365,862 persons on the federal civilian
payrolls. The latest comparable figure, for July 31, 1955, places the total at
2,187,021 178,841 less than when President Eisenhower took office.
This means an annual saving of $743,263,196 in salaries. It also means less
bureaucratic red tape and less federal tampering with local and individual areas
of initiative.
FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
The armed forces increased their consumption of milk by nearly 100 million
pints from November 1954 through June 1955 under a special program to stimulate
expanded use of milk for troop feeding and hospital messes. And the Department of
Defense is practically finished in writing a new joint-services supply catalog.
Already over 100,000 duplicated supply items have been pruned with a $7 1/2 million
saving to the taxpayers.
Your Washington Review
KENT
Congressman
OTTAWA
5
JERRY FORD
FOR RELEASE October 20, 1955
Often considered the most outstanding printing job done anywhere, when
Congress is in session the "Congressional Record" prints daily the proceedings
of the Senate and House of Representatives.
The debate and discussion entered in the "Congressional Record" provides
valuable day-to-day information on crucial issues before the Congress. And as its
name indicates, the pages from the "Congressional Record" offer a lasting record
of what Congress has done and considered. Experts in shorthand take down every
word uttered in each Chamber which at the close of the day are consolidated, indexed,
printed, and distributed by early the following morning.
Approximately 38,000 copies are printed for each day's session at a cost of
$1,206,107 in 1954. These are mailed to libraries, newspapers, schools, and key
individuals throughout the nation. Also, each Congressional Office receivee two
copies of the preceding day's"Record" every morning for its own use and 4,000
copies are distributed among government agencies in Washington.
If you would like to have a copy of the "Congressional Record" from the last
session to see what is it like, drop me a line and I will be happy to see that one
is sent to you.
FEDERAL FLAG PURCHASING
The Federal Government is a big flag purchaser, and until recently even
manufactured some. In 1952 the Navy, for instance, made 5,300 and bought 6,000
flags. In 1953, however, the Navy bought all of its ensigns, 22,100, for $145,000.
This year the Navy is purchasing even more flags.
Flags that fly over Government buildings are bought and distributed by
the General Services Administration. It orders 8,000 a year, and supplies them
to buildings other than the Post Office and Defense Departments.
CIVIL RIGHTS AND CONGRESS
In the last session of Congress, 111 bills and resolutions affecting civil
rights were introduced. But civil rights legislation made virtually no progress
whatsoever under the Democrat majority in the Congress.
Only one measure, a non-controversial bill to permit federal employment of
Mongolians, was passed by the House; the Senate acted on no civil rights legislation.
SPEAKING ACTIVITY
My schedule has been a full one since I returned to Michigan from Washington
early in September. Presently a typical day for your Congressman may include two
or three morning hours in the office followed by a late morning speaking engagement
usually at a high school, then lunch with a speech before a service club. At
2:30 I have been arriving at my "mobile office" remaining there until after 8:00 p.m.
Usually another speaking engagement or TV appearance will follow this taking me
into the late evening hours.
I have been most fortunate to have had these opportunities to talk and
speak before school and civic groups, church clubs, service clubs, and military
organizations.
SERVICE MAIL AND SUBSIDY
A report by-the Civil Aeronautics Board shows the trend in subsidizing
airlines which carry United States mail is decreasing. Government subsidies paid
to this industry for the fiscal years of 1956 and 1957 will be reduced to
$48,500,000. This figure represents a decrease of $23,500,000 or 33 per cent less
than the subsidy for fiscal year 1954 and $7,200,000 or 13 per cent less than the
subsidy for the 12 months in fiscal 1955.
A number of reasons are accountable for this decreasing need for subsidy
for airlines which carry the mail. These include: (1) The high level of economic
activity enjoyed by the industry; (2) Expanded and low-cost transportation by air
coach; (3) The increased volume of: military mail moving by commercial air carriers;
and (4) Increased efficiency on the part of the air lines.
This reduction in airline subsidies is definitely an accomplishment of the
Eisenhower Administration.
Your Washington Review
KENT
Congressman
OTTAWA
5
JERRY FORD
FOR RELEASE October 27, 1955
Little known, yet a vital element of our democratic process! I am
referring to the consent calendar in the consideration of which your Congressman
participated during the last session of Congress.
Three Republicans and three Democrat Members of Congress are selected
by their respective House party leaders to serve as "official objectors" on the
consent calendar. In 1950 your Congressman was first appointed an"official objector"
by the Republican leadership in the House. I have continued in that capacity during
the 84th Congress.
The consent calendar is adapted only to legislation which is not expected
to become controversial or draw political lines. After legislation of this kind
has been reported from a committee, the chairman may request that it be placed on
the consent calendar. I was on the consent calendar dealing with public bills.
There is also a consent calendar for private bills. On the first and third Mondays
of each month these bills come up before the House for unanimous approval. But
prior to this, I would receive, along with the other members of the objectors of
the consent calendar, the legislation recommended by the various committees with
an analysis of each bill.
When this legislation would come up for House approval any member might
register his objection. But it is the duty of the "official objector" to have
sifted the bills and resolutions to prevent the unwitting passage of any measures
which may possibly prove controversial or political in nature.
Should someone object to the passage of any legislation brought up in this
manner, the bill is held over for the next consent calendar. If three persons
object the second time, the measure is taken off the calendar to follow the same
procedure as any other bill in the House.
MOBILE OFFICE REPORT
Now after visiting 22 communities of Kent and Ottawa Counties in my "Mobile
Office" I feel this project has been extremely successful. With only two exceptions,
and those very brief, I have been occupied constantly by local residents coming to
this "office." So far I have met and talked privately with approximately 800 persons
in this manner. Later I will report to you more fully on the results from my
"Mobile Office" tour.
STREAMLINING GOVERNMENT
During the first three years of the present Administration, the Federal
government spent $36 billion less than it would have, had the "spendthrift"
policies of the preceding Administration been continued. This sum represents a
saving of nearly $1,000 for every family of four in the United States.
The Republican trend toward streamlining government has been apparent in
all branches and agencies. For instance, the Army's standardization of tank parts
will save taxpayers $560,000,000 during the next 10 years. And the Bureau of
Engraving has cut operating expenses by an estimated $1,350,000 a year starting
this November 1 through improving methods and modernizing equipment. The Department
of Defense recently announced that through the sale of surplus, obsolete and
worn-out materials in the fiscal year 1955, it was able to collect $143 million.
This represents the highest percentage return on these sales in four years.
REMODELING THE CAPITOL
Last year Congress appropriated $5 million in the first move to give our
United States Capitol Building a face-lifting. And each successive session of
Congress can be expected to make additional appropriations until the work is
completed.
The last major construction work on the Capitol was completed in 1865.
Ever since then Capitol architects have recognized the need to correct the archi-
tectural defect which has placed the Dome off center and too near the Capitol's
front side. Present plans call for a 40-fcot extension of the front or east side
to correct this long-standing architectural fault.
These same plans make provision for a more substantial central portion to
reface the sandstone structure which has been there since the cornerstone was
laid in 1793. Also, the addition will make space available for much needed
office quarters, committee rooms and restaurant facilities.
Your Washington Review
KENT
Congressman
OTTAWA
5
JERRY FORD
FOR RELEASE November 3, 1955
Americans can be extremely thankful for President Eisenhower's rapid recovery
from his illness. It also seems as though we can be grateful to Dick Nixon and
the manner in which he has measured up to his responsibilities under the Constitution
as "first in command" during Ike's absence.
Dick Nixon has been a sincere, conscientious and constructive Vice President,
who through tireless effort and with President Eisenhower's wholehearted approval,
molded his office into an active and dynamic force for carrying out Administration
policy. Now the whole country is profiting from these qualities the Vice President
is exhibiting as the temporary leader of the Eisenhower team during the President's
convalescence.
HOOVER COMMISSION PROGRESS
The second Hoover Commission, a bi-partisan group, has made 314 recommendations
designed to modernize and make our government perform more economically and effi-
ciently. Many of the Hoover Commission Reports are now being put into effect within
the Executive Branch of Government and the Administration has set up machinery to
take action on more of these proposals to streamline the executive branch of the
federal government.
Of the Hoover Commission recommendations 46 per cent do not require the
approval of Congress for action. The dollar savings which can be attained through
these proposals are substantial and according to the Commission should be reflected
in lower taxes.
For instance, the Commission's Task Forces estimated that $360 million a year
could be saved on overseas economic activities, $340 million on food and clothing for
the armed forces and $151 million on transportation.
TIMBER FOR THE FUTURE
The Department of Agriculture issued a report recently containing some vital
information about future timber requirements for our Nation. It pointed out that our
timber requirements are expected to be so high by the end of the 20th century timber
growth will need to be from 70 to 120 per cent greater than it now is.
The United States including Alaska, controls 8 per cent of the forested area of
the world and 15 per cent of the timber under exploitation. Yet the country has
no prospect for an excess of forest land because of increasing industrial uses for
timber, as well as the downward trend resulting from land cleared for agriculture,
highways, and urbanization.
The Secretary of Agriculture has directed that several important programs be
intensified immediately to help increase and preserve United States timber resources.
These steps include improved forest management to minimize the dangers of loss from
fire, disease, and insects; research to improve forest quality and increase production;
and the search for new locations for planting.
PENSION FUNDS
Our elderly citizens have growing assurance of financial security if the vast
pension funds built up by private industry and the government are any indication.
Corporation pension funds have passed the $11-billion mark. This figure represents
an increase of 77 per cent during the past three years. And pension funds maintained
by state and local governments had jumped from $6.4 billion in 1952 to $8.7 billion
in
1954. These increases were made possible by the present high level of national
prosperity.
TRUE TO THE TEST
In 1949 a 12-year-old girl, Helen Liu Kalsbeek came to the United States from
China on a six-month visitor's visa. At the date her visa expired I was privileged
to assist in obtaining for Helen a stay of deportation which extended her visa
indefinitely and made her eligible for citizenship.
At this time a number of people had faith in Helen who as a child had endured
many trials during the several wars in China. After World War II an American
missionary in China adopted Helen and brought her to Grand Rapids.
Last week those who had faith in Helen as a 12-year-old immigrant girl were
shown that, now as a 17-year-cld senior at Christian High School in Grand Rapids
and a U. S. citizen, Helen has lived up to this faith. For Tuesday night, October 26,
Helen Liu Kalsbeek tied for top honors in the 1955 high school essay contest sponsored
by the Grand Rapids Real Estate Board. Topic of the essay: "What The Bill of
Rights Means to Me."
Your Washington Review
KENT
Congressman
OTTAWA
5
JERRY FORD
FOR RELEASE November 10, 1955
My "mobile office" tour is now history but many memories remain of the
experiences gained from meeting the people living in and around the 27 small
communities I visited.
I believe that there are actually two different sides to a tour such as
I took of the Fifth District, One side concerns the educational aspect that
comes through meeting people and listening to their comments and observations
on matters of importance to them. Then there is the less serious side which
involves the personalities and compatibilities of people of all ages, occupations
and interests, Next week I will report on my observations of what the residents
of the Fifth District are thinking about national and world issues. But this
week I want to tell you something about the people I met and a few interesting
events arising through becoming better acquainted with them.
TALKING TO SCHOOL GROUPS
In all I had 863 private discussions with individuals in the "mobile
office" between the regular hours of 2:30 and 8:00 p.m. But this doesn't tell
the whole story of my visits to these communities. In 15 areas I spoke to local
high and junior bigh school classes. At Borculo 28 seventh and eighth graders
took time out from their classes to ride their bicycles to the "mobile office"
where I spoke briefly while they gathered around the trailer.
In Allendale I spoke to students from the local consolidated school as they
changed buses enroute home and in Cascade a school bus brought 50 seventh and
eighth graders to the trailer. At Lowell 70 members of the eighth grade civics
classes (and in Jamestown 7 members) came to the office and questioned me as a
group about the functioning of our government.
OTHER GROUP MEETINGS
Also. in 15 communities I was privileged to speak to local service groups
before my office hours and attend suppers or coffee hours after leaving the
trailer office. At Belmont I met the Township Board and a number of local
citizens in the Township Hall from 8:00 until 9:00 p.m. A similar informal
evening affair was staged by the Chamber of Commerce at Cedar Springs; there was
FORD
a luncheon at Hudsonville and a meeting with civic leaders in Byron Center.
LIBRARY
I attended a jointly sponsored pot-luck supper at Alto; while at Harvard I was
honored with an invitation to have dinner with a family in their home. At
Caledonia and Cascade, as in other communities, I met Township and village officials.
Eighty residents of Allendale came to a dinner in their new Township Hall for the
largest single gathering of my tour.
SOME SIDELIGHTS
As I have indicated, I had the privilege of sampling the excellent home-style
cooking of many housewives throughout Kent and Ottawa Counties. These included
home-made pies and a number of excellent hot dishes which would often arrive around
the dinner hour,
At Borculo the local businessmen presented me with a simulated American flag
made from red., white. and blue gladioli. In Zeeland a farmer gave me a dozen
double-yoked eggs which were not only unusual but the Ford family found them to
be of excellent quality. At Sparta and Marne I was again reminded of the delicious
apples grown in our vicinity with presentations of several half buschels by indi-
vidualegrowers, On several occasions folks gave me flower bouquets for Betty.
Experiences such as these represent a sort of special heart-warming compen-
sation for being your Representative. I am very grateful to each and all for this
thoughtful hospitality. Another such incident occurred at Marne when two children
of about eight years brought a bouquet of garden flowers, saying "We picked the
best we could find." And at Nunica a group of Boy Scouts on a scavenger hunt
had to obtain the signature of your Congressman as one item in their assignment.
MAKING ARRANGEMENTS.
At times there seemed to be endless details involved in making my "mobile
office" tour. I had to depend largely upon local people in the communities visited,
and on Tom Boss who with his father efficiently hauled the trailer from community
to community,
2 Prior to visiting a town we needed a satisfactory location, an electrical
outlet. and somehow to get the word around that we were coming. Ted Olmstead,
who sells house trailers on Plainfield Avenue just outside of Grand Rapids,
provided the trailer. But before we could move into the first community the
detail of location, insurance, and adequately equipping the 31-foot "office" needed
to be met. All this never could have been accomplished without the kind assistance
and response from people throughout Kent and Ottawa Counties.
It has been a wonderful experience for me. Thanks to everyone for all the
help,
[1955]
Your Washington Review
KENT
Congressman
OTTAWA
5
JERRY FORD
YOU ARE INVITED TO A CITIZENS' METTING WITH
CONGRESSMAN GERALD R. FORD, JR.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 14
700 P. M.
ROBART SCHOOL
TOPICS FOR DISCUSSION:
1. The disposal of federally owned land in Ottawa County.
(Should it be returned to private ownership? If so, how?)
2. Fighting the European Pine Shoot Moth.
3. Tariff duties on Christmas trees.
4. Some problems of blueberry growers.
Dear Friend:
You are invited to meet with other citizens
of the West Olive area to discuss the above topics with
your Congressman at the Robart School on Monday evening,
November 14, at 7:00 P. M. I do not plan to make a speech
but rather to participate in a general discussion of those
topics in which you are interested.
Mr. Clarence Reenders, Chairman of the West
Ottawa Soil Conservation Board and Chairman of the Conser-
vation Committee of the Ottawa County Board of Supervisors
has kindly consented to accompany me to this meeting. We
are especially interested in determining what you, as
citizens of the area, believe should be done with the
federally owned land in your community.
We hope that many of you will meet with us so
that we may have the benefit of your thinking.
Sincerely,
Your Washington Review
KENT
Congressman
OTTAWA
5
JERRY FORD
FOR RELEASE November 17, 1955
This week I am presenting a few of the major problems and suggestions that
came to my attention during the two-month tour with the "mobile office." Almost
70 per cent of the visitors to the trailer had either a personal problem involving
an agency or department of the federal government or a suggestion for changes in
existing federal laws. Approximately 30 per cent of those who stopped in while
we covered 27 communities of Kent and Ottawa Counties wanted to say hello and
extend a friendly welcome.
Social Security legislation seemed to prompt the most questions with the
exception of queries about agriculture. In a subsequent newsletter I will
summarize what appear to be views of Fifth District farmers on the complicated and
controversial farm issue.
SOCIAL SECURITY QUESTIONS
In 1954 the Congress extended the coverage of Social Security to include
farmers and several other occupational groups. Many older farmers are apparently
anxious to retire under this new pension in the law which went into effect
January 1, 1955. To qualify as a beneficiary the farmer must be extremely careful
that his business arrangement for the operation of the farm fits the requirement
of the law. In addition, during 1955 the farm proprietor must earn at least $400
in net income and during the first six months of 1956 he must have a minimum of
$800 in gross income if he intends to retire at that time.
For the past year various farm organizations and the Social Security Ad-
ministration, the latter with local offices in the McKay Tower in Grand Rapids,
have sought to explain these problems in detail but still legitimate questions pop
up. This difficulty appears inevitable where there is new legislation and "big
government" invades a previously uncharted field. As a word of caution, may I
suggest that anyone who is in doubt about his rights under Social Security should
immediately contact the Social Security officials in Grand Rapids. Such action
might prevent future difficulties.
AMENDING THE SOCIAL SECURITY ACT
One visitor came up with a very sound suggestion for change in the existing
Social Security Act. If the "breadwinner" in the family passes on while covered
by Social Security, the widow and minor children receive survivorship benefits.
The existing law states that the widow may not earn more than $1,200 per year without
losing these survivorship benefits. This so-called earning limitation is bad enough
in its application to those over 65, but it is especially harmful when it prevents
a widow from earning sufficient wages to raise her minor children. It is my intention
to sponsor a bill to remove this unsound and illogical earning restriction.
Other problems involving Social Security related to the amount of monthly
benefits, the soundness of the reserves and the need for increasing the tax on
both employer and employee. Several suggested that it was wrong to permit those
who were not American citizens to be Social Security beneficiaries, particularly
those who live overseas. This suggestion has merit.
PROBLEMS FROM THE MILITARY
A number of visitors to the "mobile office" had problems with the Veterans
Administration. There were several G.I.s who were having trouble getting prompt
VA medical exams. Others wondered why it was taking so long for the VA to process
their pension, disability, or educational applications. One visitor stopped in to
tell U.S what excellent medical and surgical treatment her father, a World War I
veteran, had received at the VA hospital at Dearborn.
Also, a number of parents and young men stopped in to inquire about military
service problems. I was able to point out the various alternatives for service
in the Army, Navy, and Air Force including the new volunteer program which requires
only six months' active duty.
RAILROAD CAR REFLECTORS
Three callers urged that Congress pass legislation to require the railroads
to place reflectors on the sides of their cars. During the past several months
in Western Michigan there have been fatal accidents when the driver of an automobile
neglected to see a train passing a rural crossing at night. Apparently it is
often impossible to detect a train at such a crossing. During the last session
of Congress a bill was sponsored by a member of the House of Representatives from
Iowe to require the railroads to install reflectors on the sides of all cars.
Our office contacted the Interstate Commerce Commission to get their reaction
to such a requirement. The ICC's response was not encouraging. I intend to in-
vestigate this problem further when Congress reconvenes.
Your Washington Review
KENT
Congressman
OTTAWA
5
JERRY FORD
FOR RELEASE November 23, 1955
Since President Eisenhower's inauguration and the changing of government
reins from Democrat to Republican on January 20, 1953, great progress has been
made toward government economy. In these weekly reports I have presented numerous
examples of economy measures put into effect by Ike's Administration through
streamlining government operations, elimination of red tape, and the abolishment
of unnecessary agencies.
Mainly as a result of these and other steps which have led to less federal
spending the prospect for a balanced budget for fiscal year 1956 are excellent
provided: 1) Federal spending does not rise above current levels, and 2) the
present high levels of business activity and consequent federal revenues are
sustained.
DEFICIT TREND DECLINING
In fiscal 1955, which ended June 30th, the government had a deficit of
approximately four billion dollars, that is total spending of all kinds out-ran
receipts of all kinds by this much. Secretary of the Treasury Humphrey in August
estimated a deficit for fiscal 1956, ending next June 30th, of $1.7 billion.
However, this picture according to more recent forecasts, is likely to be brightened
because of government revenues collected by virtue of a continued and expanded
prosperity of most of our people, combined with additional economies by the
Administration.
If there is a balanced budget should Congress cut taxes or apply the potential
surplus to a partial reduction of the federal debt At the present time it costs
the taxpayers of the United States over $6 billion annually in interest on the
federal debt of approximately $275 billion. It might be wise to forego a tax cut
in 1956 and apply the surplus to a reduction of the annual interest payments.
CONTINUING FEDERAL OPERATIONS
The United States Government has become the biggest factor in the life of
our country. It is the largest employer, the biggest owner of capital assets,
and the biggest spender of money. This year alone your federal government will buy
about 25 million pencils and 150 thousand erasers. Just in Washington, D. C. the
government owns 155 buildings and leases another 86.
With its many agencies and bureaus the federal government has grown pro-
portionately seven times faster than the nation's population in the past three
decades.
The General Services Administration (GSA) is the "housekeeping" agency
of the federal government which manages this vast organizational bureaucracy.
GSA buys the supplies, cleans the buildings, and stores the records. It is a
governmental housewife, of sorts!
Through sound business practices GSA has saved your federal government
vast sums of money. For instance, recently when the Civil Defense Administration
needed a half-million blankets, instead of going out and buying them---as the
government used to do--GSA was able to find enough surplus blankets belonging
to the Veterans Administration and the Navy to fill CDA requirements. This
resulted in a $4.25 million saving. This incident indicates very definite progress
in the effort to eliminate waste and extravagance in the civilian agencies of
the government.
NEWS ABOUT IKE
President Eisenhower has been making steady progress in recuperating from
his illness. As in the past when a President was ill, the questions arose of
just how to handle an accurate and honest flow of public information about a
presidential disability. When Presidents Cleveland and Franklin Roosevelt fell
ill, the public was denied any accurate report of their conditions; when Woodrow
Wilson became disabled the public received only piecemeal information.
We are in agreement with James Russell Wiggins, Vice President and Executive
Editor of the Washington Post and Times Herald, who said recently that Press
Secretary James Hagerty's handling of facts about President Eisenhower's illness
is "an example of open dealing that should not be lost upon others in government."
PRESIDENTIAL STATISTICS
Theodore Roosevelt at 42 was the youngest President; while William Henry
Harrison at 68 was the oldest. Abraham Lincoln's 6'4" made him the tallest
and James Madison at 5'4" was shortest. William Howard Taft's 300 pounds gave
him the top weight. John Tyler with 14 had the most children of any President.
James Buchanan was the only one who never married.
Your Washington Review
KENT
Congressman
OTTAWA
5
JERRY FORD
FOR RELEASE December 1, 1955
The NATO Status of Forces Treaty was severely criticized during the past
session of Congress and a number of persons have asked me about it recently.
It is often stated that this treaty gives foreign nations the privilege of
punishing American servicemen stationed abroad, and that the rights of these
U. S. citizens are endangered.
The best explanation of this problem I have seen comes from Deputy Under
Secretary of State Robert Murphy in a statement before the House Committee on
Foreign Affairs.
Murphy points out that troops stationed in a friendly foreign nation are,
and always have been, subject to the criminal laws of that nation. In the
absence of the Status of Forces Treaty, the foreign governments would have the
right to arrest and try any American accused of a criminal offense. But
because our government believes that our troops stationed abroad deserve special
protection, the NATO Status of Forces Treaty was approved.
CONTENTS OF THE TREATY
By this Treaty, foreign governments agreed that they should have jurisdic-
tion only over criminal offenses committed while the American serviceman was
off duty. Those offenses committed while the man is on military duty are to
be handled by the U. S. Military authorities.
Secondly, the Treaty gives the U. S. authorities the prerogative to request
local officials to waive jurisdiction and turn the man over to U. S. military
commanders for trial. It is significant to note that of the many servicemen,
employees, and dependents sent abroad where the Treaty applies, there have
been about 6,000 criminal cases which fell within the jurisdiction of the local
courts. In 70 per cent of these cases the local authorities have either
dropped the charges entirely or voluntarily turned the accused person over to
his military commander.
Finally, the NATO Status of Forces Treaty guarantees certain basic rights
to those American servicemen who are tried in foreign courts. These are
comparable to the safeguards which the serviceman would enjoy in a U. S. military
court martial, including the right to counsel and the American right of being
congronted by witnesses. Out of the total of 6,000 cases mentioned above, only
85 persons have been imprisoned by local authorities in NATO countries, and as
of May 31, 1955 only 22 were actually in prison in these countries. Most of the
sentences have been very short. The maximum sentence thus far imposed is 5 years,
for highway robbery with violence at night by two men against an old taxi driver.
Secretary Murphy contends that our agreements with foreign governments
outside the NATO group are just as favorable to our servicemen. This would
appear to be the case from the testimony before the Congressional Committee.
TREATY MAKING
The formulation of treaties, as well as the complete conduct of our
foreign relations, is the responsibility of the President and his Secretary
of State. Their diplomatic representatives negotiate a treaty, making every
effort to obtain the most favorable conditions for this country. The document
which they eventually present to the President must be approved by him.
However, under our Constitution, a treaty must pass one more hurdle,
ratification by the U. S. Senate. Generally, the Committee on Foreign Relations
studies a treaty thoroughly, and holds public hearings on it. The Committee
may then recommend to the Senate that it ratify the treaty. The treaty will
be noneffective unless ratified by a two-thirds vote of the Senate. The Senate
approved the NATO Status of Forces Treaty by a 72-15 vote. Among its supporters
were Senators Taft and Knowland, and Senators George and Johnson.
LATEST POPULATION FIGURES
Michigan shared substantially in the 10 1/2 million growth in U. S.
population between April 1, 1950 and July 1, 1954. According to a report just
issued by the Bureau of the Census, Michigan grew 10.3 per cent between these
dates. Our State's population stood at 7,028,000 on July 1st. Migrations into
Michigan which totaled 151,000 in this four-year period added a great stimulus
to our 656,000 increase.
Michigan is one of 10 states whose populations have swelled over 10 per
cent since 1950. If this trend continues, our State of Michigan following the
nation-wide census of 1960 should have 20 rather than 18 Members of the House
of Representatives.
Your Washington Review
KENT
Congressman
OTTAWA
5
JERRY FORD
FOR RELIAE December 9, 1955
This past week the Ford family made the 680 mile return trip to our Nation's
Capitol. We left Grand Rapids on Monday morning, December 5th, and now Betty, Mike,
Jack, and I are busily engaged in unpacking and settling down again; for the next
session of Congress which convenes on January 3rd.
My Grand Rapids office in the Michigan Trust Building will keep hours until
shortly after Christmas when the rest of my staff rejoins me in Washington. But from
then on I suggest that, if you wish to contact me about any problem or legislative
matter, you address your letter to the House of Representatives, D. C. It will reach
me much quicker in this way.
THE COMING SESSION
Next week I expect to start getting my desk in order for the coming session.
A number of highly controversial issues can be expected to come up which include:
the expanded highway-construction program, changes in social security legislation,
Hoover Commission Recommendations, fiscal problems including any tax changes, private
versus public power, and agricultural programs. These issues require important back-
ground reasarch and study. I hope to do some of this in December before the mad
rush of next session gets underway. Also, some committee work has piled up between
sessions which demands attention prior to the first meeting of the Appropriations
Committee, I expect to devote a goodly share of my time to these matters during the
next few weeks.
VARIETY OF INFORMATION
Despite some politically inspired criticism, the Anti-Trust Division of the
Department of Justice has been extremely active lately. For the year ending Sep-
tember 30, 1955, for example, 52 new cases were filed--34 civil and 18 criminal.
These 52 new cases represent a sharp increase over the recent past. Thus in fiscal
year 1952, 30 new cases were filed; in fiscal year 1953, 33 new proceedings were
brought; and in fiscal 1954, 32 new.anti-trust cases were launched. The bulk of these
52 new cases involved traditional hardcore Sherman Act violations, such as price-
fixing and allocation of territories. In other words, Ike's Department of Justice
has cracked down on anti-trust violations.
Government officials report that, in contrast to former years, the question
most frequently asked by farmers who are plagued by too little or too much and in-
dustries seeking new plant locations is about the availability of water. Symbo-
lizing the intensified interest in water is the Department of Agriculture's 1955
Yearbook entitled "Water." This 752-page book is devoted to drought, floods, normal
sources, and uses of water. The book's 95 chapters are authored by 149 top-notch
specialists on the varied aspects of the problem. A copy may be- obtained from either
the Superintendent of Documents, Washington, 25, D. C. for $2.00 or Members of Congress
have a limited supply for free distribution on a first-come-first-serve basis.
The Bureau of Internal Revenue has made a new addition to this year's taxpayer
information. In recognition of the growing need for a publication dealing exclusively
with income tax law and regulations applicable to farmers and ranchers, the "Farmers'
Tax Guide, Income and Self-Employment Taxes" is available from your County Agricul-
tural Agent, the District Director of Internal Revenue, or if you wish, by writing
your Congressman.
In August of this year I spent three days in Berlin checking on U. S. Army
expenditures and policies. While there I saw first-hand evidence of the 10,000
refugees a month who are fleeing Communist oppression by seeking haven in the Western
Zone. This continuous flow of refugees has had an amazing result. Communist-
controlled East Germany has become the only area in continental Europe with a declining
population losing almost two and three-quarters million of its inhabitants in the past
ten years. More than 2,704,680 Germans have fled from the Soviet Zone into West
Germany. This amounts to more than 15 per cent of East Germany's 1946 population of
17,314,000. East Germany's population today is 16,840,000.
The number of post offices as of July 1, 1955 was about half those of 1900, a
total of 38,316 as against 76,688 at the turn of the century. However, in 1900 nearly
95 per cent, or 72,455, of the offices were fourth-class, while only 194 were first
class. Out of today's total of 38,316 offices there are but 14,942 fourth-class or
slightly less than 50 per cent while nearly 10 per cent or 3,613 are currently first
class.
This class differentiation is based on receipts, that is, amount of stamp sales
plus several other smaller types of revenues. This reduction in post offices stems
largely from population shifts, better roads with the corresponding extension of
Rural Free Delivery service, and faster means of delivery.
Your Washington Review
KENT
Congressman
OTTAWA
5
JERRY FORD
FOR HOMEASE December 15, 1955
Talking with about 400 Western Michigan farmers individually and many more
in groups in 1955 gives one a rather good insight into what our agricultural
problems are. A limited few farmer visitors to our "mobile office" were bitterly
angry and you can imagine what they said. In contrast most of the others were
conscientiously concerned with the present "price-squeeze" and naturally wondered
what the future had to offer.
Here's a listing of some farmer complaints: 1) Since January 1951 to the
present, prices received by farmers have generally gone down while prices paid
by farmers for the things they use have increased. 2) The price support legisla-
tion whether it be the rigid 90 per cent of parity on the so-called six basic
crops (corn, cotton, wheat, tobacco, rice, and peanuts) or the new flexible program
is discriminatory against our type of farmers in Kent and Ottawa Counties. 3) The
full-time farmers are concerned about the competition from the part-time farmer
who works up to 40 hours a week in a factory or at other employment but at the
same time milks a few COWS, has several hundred chickens, and plants, harvests,
and sells wheat, corn, or other crops.
The full-time farmer also looks with misgivings at the so-called hobby farmer
who is a city fellow that bought a farm without expecting to make a livelihood from
his investment. 5) The wheat support program is most irritating because of its
acreage controls and the disenfranchisement of many farmers by the 15-acre limi-
tation on the vote referendum.
DIFFERENCES IN MICHIGAN
The record shows that Michigan agriculture is quite different from farming
in other areas, particularly when compared with the big wheat farms in the
Kansas, South Dakota, and Montana regions. Their farms of 1,000 or more acres
dwarf ours, and with such large acreage they can mechanize their operations to the
maximum. Their weather and soil vary from that in Michigan. In addition, wheat
and the amount they produce for the market place differs from that of the West
Michigan farmer. Wheat in the plain states is a "big" crop while here its
importance is minor compared to dairy and poultry production. Despite these basie
contrasts a Michigan farmer is in effect bound by the same agricultural legislation
including acreage allowances, cutback penalties, and price supports.
The red tape and regimentation of the price support laws irritate our farmers,
and particularly so, when they get S.O little, if any benefit. Kent and Ottawa
County farmers see whatever benefits there are from these programs accruing to the
big plain state wheat farmers, the North Carolina tobacco grower, the Mississippi,
Texas, and California cotton farmer and the Georgia peanut grower. Simultaneously
they hear the city folks complaining about Uncle Sam owning $7 billion in farm
surpluses with relatively little of it coming from their Michigan farms. They know
that Michigan farmers as a whole get less than 15 percent of their income from price
supported commodities. Yet when an uninformed city fellow condemns the farmer for
his alleged dependence on Uncle Sam, the Michigan farmer is chastised with the rest.
This blanket criticism rubs the wrong way our enterprising farmers who work long
hours with a big investment in land and equipment.
ALTERNATIVES IN THE OFFERING
What's the answer? The Democrat leaders including Stevenson, Harriman, and
Williams favor the re-enactment of the, 90 per cent of parity on the six basic
crops. Under such a law which was in effect until the 1955 harvest season the
Federal Government had accumulated, directly or indirectly, surpluses valued at
over $7 billion. In addition, while this law was in effect farm income dropped
about 22 per cent and the parity ratio slumped from the January 1951 high of 113
to the September, 1955 figure of 84.
In other words, under the Democrat-sponsored legislation as a cure for the
currentfarm ills, recent history shows that farm prices dropped and surpluses
zoomed upward. Furthermore, it is admitted by the advocates of this policy that
there must be further acreage cutbacks and increased penalties. It is also agreed
that 90 per cent rigid supports on wheat and corn kept feed costs high to the
detriment of the dairy and poultry producers. It should be noted that about a dozen
Democrat Senators out of 49, including former Secretary of Agriculture Clinton
Anderson, voted against 90 per cent supports last year. They were in the minority
in the Democrat Party but they are the admitted agriculture authorities in their
party. They might well do so again on the ground that higher subsidies stimulate
surpluses and aid the big farmer more than the little fellow.
But what have the Republicans to offer? In next week's newsletter, I'll
indicate the G. O. P. approach and several personal suggestions.
Your Washington Review
KENT
OTTAWA
5
Congressman
JERRY FORD
FOR RELEASE December 22, 1955
Last week I listed some complaints farmers of Wostern Michigan expressed to me
between the sessions of Congress. Farmers are deeply concerned over the effects of
the current "price-squeeze," national farm legislation discriminating against Michigan
agriculture, government controls, and irritation caused by part-time and hobby farmers.
This week I will indicate the Republican approach as well as a few personal
suggestions to solve this perplexing and most serious problem.
FARM INCOME
Farm prices and total income are down, but the big drop came under rigid 90
per cent supports. That is, the parity ratio of 113 in February of 1951 dropped to
94 under the Truman Administration. Under the Eisenhower Administration, which
operated with the same rigid price support law until last fall's harvest, the parity
ratio dropped from 94 to 84 where it stood last September when the Republican flexi-
ble support law came into effect. Per capita net income of farm people was $930 in
1952, $904 in 1953, and $907 in 1954, and 15 per cent higher than in 1947. Under the
rigid support legislation vast market glutting surpluses were created totalling $7
billion and stored by the government at a cost of about $1 million a day.
There is wide agreement that the farmer is not sharing fairly in our present
high level of national prosperity. But the real issue boils down to "farm income,"
and not necessarily the level of price supports. Farm income must be raised, the
question remaining is "how?" The record proves rigid supports on a limited number
of crops are not the answer in either the short pull or the long haul.
SLIDING PRICE SCALE
The Administration as well as the majority of the Republican Members of Congress
favor the flexible support program for the six basic crops. Republican policy opposes
rigid supports because the record clearly indicates they created a distcrted market
with zooming surpluses, declining incomes, and excessive federal regulations. Rigid
price supports were designed and legislated for a wartime economy when peak production
was encouraged and essential.
The huge surpluses built up under rigid price supports have a very adverse
effect on the market. For instance, when the September crop report estimated the
soybean crop down 8 per cent from August the market jumped 20 cents a bushel. The
same September report estimated corn production down 10 per cent, but the corn market
didn't budge. The soybean market was not clogged by a surplus; the corn market
was.
The flexible support program on the six basic crops was legislated with two
objects in mind which seem necessary if we are to place our agricultural economy
on a permanent and solid peacetime footing. These are: 1) to reduce our surpluses
and 2) equate production with markets. Republican farm policies are working
toward these goals.
REFINEMENTS DESIRED
To gain the maximum benefits for our farmers through the flexible support
program the following minimum revisions in the law should be considered by the
Congress. To better meet the needs of the diverse national farm pattern, including
Michigan agriculture, a regional or individual state basis for legislation is
highly desirable. In other words farm legislation which is helpful to Kansas
agriculture is not necessarily sound for a Michigan farmer. Consequently federal
agricultural legislation should have exceptions or provisions which are specifically
designed to apply to agriculture in states like Michigan.
Second, to maintain and encourage the family type farm, provisions of law
must insure that the small farmer shares in the benefits of the law to the same
degree as the 'large, commercial type farmer. This applies particularly to the
1,500,000 farm families of the country which struggle along on a cash income of
$1,000 a year or less. Unfortunately in the last session in the Democrat-
controlled House and Senate the Congress cut down the amount requested by Ike
and Secretary Benson for aid to these low-income farmers.
BENSON'S PROGRAM
Secretary of Agriculture Benson recently outlined a program to supplement
the flexible support law and help equalize farm income with that of other segments
of the national economy. It includes: (1) A stepped-up program of surplus
disposal and expansion of exports. Substantial progress is being made on this
part of the program. Everyone is familiar with Secretary Benson's decision to
make surplus commodities available to religious groups for distribution to the
needy overseas. (2) A vigorous purchase program to remove market gluts. (3)
An enlarged program of soil conservation and incentive payments to divert
cropland into grass, trees, and forage and (4) Expansion of the rural development
program for low-income farmers with additional credit and management assistance.
(5) Expanded research to emphasize lower production costs and new uses for
farm crops.
Your Washington Review
KENT
Congressman
OTTAWA
5
JERRY FORD
December 29
FOR RELEASE January 5, 1955
Another yuletide season is upon us and bringing with it Christmas and the
New Year. Let's hope and pray that through the lessons of 1955 we have learned
to live more constructive lives in 1956.
First and foremost, the Fords extend to all our very best wishes for a
happy, healthy, and successful 1956. The spirit of Christmas is very conspicuous
in Washington as I know it is back home in Michigan. It would be a much better
world if this joyous holiday spirit could continually be present in the affairs
of the coming year. With this personal note should be added the hope that Peace
on Earth may be more certain and secure with the well-being and prosperity of the
past expanded and enlarged for the benefit of all, now and forever more.
OUR RELIGIOUS NATION
Religious principles are deeply rooted in our American way of life. History
traces the religious roots of our Nation back to its founding and early settlement
by humble people seeking religious freedom. Our Constitution guarantees "that
all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain
inalienable rights..." And at this time each year we are reminded of Him whose
perfect life taught us the principles by which we try to guide our actions.
The strong feeling toward matters of a spiritual nature has not been lost
in our government through the years. If anything, it has grown stronger with
our government officials dedicated to the preservation of values upon which the
United States was founded.
EVIDENCE OF RELIGIOUS INTEREST
A number of national practices have been maintained and encouraged through
the years which reflect the basic religious nature of Americans. Not only does
this include Christmas, but Easter and Thanksgiving as well. Also, ours is one
of two countries in the world whose national legislature opens each daily session
with a prayer by a chaplain. President Eisenhower directed when he became Chief
Executive that his Cabinet meetings commence with a prayer. This practice has
been faithfully followed during the past three years.
In accordance with a Congressional Resolution of April 17, 1952, President
Eisenhower proclaimed October 26th as "National Prayer Day." In the Spring of
1954, a Director of Religious Policy was appointed in the United States Information
Agency to help show to the world "the way in which our Biblical idealogy is the
basis for our democracy" and to show that we are a "mature, intellectual, and
religious" nation.
Last Spring a Prayer or Meditation Room for Members of Congress was opened
just off the rotunda in the Capitol. And the phrase "under God" has been added
to the pledge to the flag, indicating our dependence upon Him. Also, in the
recent session Congress voted to place in the future the phrase "In God We Trust"
on our paper money as well as on our coins. It may take at least five years to
do this, however, as the phrase will only be added to new plates as they are
prepared by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing.
All this national symbolism and form is not sufficient though unless each
of us, as public officials and private citizens, live our religion and practice
its precepts.
The new session of the Congress opens at noon on Tuesday, January 3rd but
that morning at 8:00 A.M. the National Council of Churches and the Washington
Federation of Churches will again sponsor the traditional service for all govern-
ment officials and their families. This annual interdenominational service is
intended for all among the Legislative, Executive, and Judicial branches of the
Government who desire to pray for the nation, for peace and justice, and to make
a fresh dedication at the opening of the new legislative season. This fitting
and proper service is always well attended.
The Fords, Mike, Jack, Betty, Sugar ( family dog), and Dad made the trip
back to the Nation's Capital without incident. We are looking forward to the
forthcoming session and hope visitors to Washington will stop in to see us.
Recent visitors to Washington include Mr. and Mrs. Wendell Emery and Mr. Robert
James of Grand Rapids.