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Ronald Reagan Presidential Library
Digital Library Collections
This is a PDF of a folder from our textual collections.
Collection: Blackwell, Morton: Files
Folder Title: United States Defense Committee
(2 of 2)
Box: 27
To see more digitized collections visit:
https://reaganlibrary.gov/archives/digital-library
To see all Ronald Reagan Presidential Library inventories visit:
https://reaganlibrary.gov/document-collection
Contact a reference archivist at: [email protected]
Citation Guidelines: https://reaganlibrary.gov/citing
National Archives Catalogue: https://catalog.archives.gov/
Memorandum
file
TO:
Morton Blackwell
U.S.
FROM:
Huck Walther
Defense
RE:
USDC Mailing in support of MX.
committee
Enclosed are copies of the letter, along with post
card and reply device, that USDC mailed to our members
in support of the MX missile.
Item one is a sample of the individualized mailings
that went to the districts of the 19 Democrat Congressmen
who switched their vote from support of the MX on the
May 24 vote, to opposition of the MX on the July 20 vote.
Item two went to Marge Roukema's district. She was
the lone Republican to switch from support to opposition
of the MX.
In addition, we sent other individualized letters
to those 71 districts where the Congressmen are listed
as waivering.
Altogether the number of post cards that we sent
out was just short of a quarter of a million.
your
Item 1
UNITED STATES
DEFENSE COMMITTEE
September 6, 1983
Dear Member:
I'm writing you today because of an emergency we
face in Congress.
The centerpiece of President Reagan's plan to rebuild
America's defenses, the Peacekeeper - MX missile, is in
deep trouble in the House of Representatives.
So far this year, thanks to your help, we've won
two important victories in Congress toward the deployment
of the MX.
But the final step in approving the deployment of
the MX is coming up shortly - perhaps within the next
10 days - when they will vote on the 1984 Defense Appropri-
ations Bill.
It is here that the so-called "peaceniks" plan to
kill the MX.
In fact, the anti-defense lobby is busy at this very
moment on Capitol Hill, using their arm twisting tactics
on Congressmen to get them to vote against the MX - Peacekeeper.
And Tip O'Neill and his cohorts are using every trick
they know. They are threatening to take away committee
spots and cut off campaign funds of democrats who don't
go along.
During the last session on the MX, 19 Democrat Congressmen
switched their votes from yea to nay, leaving the margin of
victory at only 13 votes. And now that margin is in doubt.
Your Congressman, Jim Wright was one of those who
switched.
That's why it's vital you send the enclosed post
card to Congressman Wright at once.
And why I pray you will take the extra post cards
I've enclosed and pass them on to your friends and neighbors
so they can help too.
Because many of those who switched, cited increasing
pressure from the well-orchestrated efforts of the "peaceniks"
and Tip O'Neill as the major reasons they sold us out.
The only way to counter this pressure is with a flood
of protest from the very folks a Congressman can't ignore.
People like you who actually live and vote in the
Congressman's district.
It is vitally important that you contact him now,
before the final vote, because if the MX is defeated now,
it probably will be lost for good and the previous 2 votes
will be rendered meaningless.
The fact of the matter is that the United States
has not added a single new land-based missile to our stra-
tegic inventory since 1965.
3238 Wynford Drive, Fairfax, Virginia 22031
And today simply because of age we are actually dis-
mantling one missile every 45 days.
Meanwhile, since 1969 (and the signing of the first
SALT agreement) the Soviets have increased their land-based
missile forces by over 50%.
Which shows again that we can't afford to base the
safety of American citizens on "trusting" the Soviets.
For history has shown that the Communists only sign
two kinds of treaties, those that clearly give them an
advantage, and those that they break.
And as the strategic balance has shifted over the
past 20 years in favor of the Soviets they have felt increasingly
free to pursue their expansionist aims.
They invaded Afghanistan, crushed freedom in Poland,
openly backed the PLO in the Middle East and with their
Cuban proxies in Central America are confronting us on
our own doorstep.
This is why we need your help.
You, your friends and neighbors must let your Congress-
man know that he was elected to represent you ... not
Tip O'Neill and his type from Massachusetts.
To be victorious over the anti-defense liberals,
we need the help of you and other patriotic Americans.
Please can I count on you to:
1) Send the enclosed post card, or better yet send
a letter to your Congressman urging support
of the MX.
2) Contact friends, neighbors and relatives and
urge them to also contact their represen-
tatives.
And can you possibly send a donation of $100, $50,
$25, or even $10 or $15 to USDC to aid our lobbying efforts
in the fight to save the MX and support a strong United
States defense.
Without the help of you and other concerned American's,
the MX will be just another lost cause.
So please, take the time to mail the post card to
your Congressman, and let him know that the people of
his district don't want him to sell out to the anti-defense
liberals.
Sincerely,
Watther
Henry L. Walther
Executive Vice President
HLW/peb
P.S. Our friends in Congress tell me the vote may be won
or lost by as little as one or two votes. Your cards
and letters along with your maximum contribution
can make the difference. Please act at once.
MX EMERGENCY REPLY
TO:
Henry Walther
Executive Vice President
United States Defense Committee
3238 Wynford Drive
Fairfax, Virginia 22031
Dear Mr. Walther:
Yes, I agree the MX missile must be built in order
to modernize our aging nuclear deterrent.
We cannot afford to base the safety of the American
people on "trusting" the Soviets.
As a contributing member of U.S.D.C. I urge you to
do all you can to help save President Reagan's plans to build
the MX-Peacekeeper.
To help in this emergency I have:
Sent my postcard to my Congressman.
Asked my friends and neighbors to mail
the extra cards you sent.
Enclosed is my extra emergency contribution
of:
$2,500
$1,000
$500
$250
$100
$50
$25
Other
No, I don't want to help in the MX battle.
From:
(Name)
(Address)
(City)
(State)
(Zip Code)
Dear Congressman:
As a member of the United States Defense Committee,
I believe that we cannot afford to base the safety
of the American people on "trusting" the Soviets.
History has shown that the Communists sign only
two kinds of treaties, those that clearly favor
them -- and those that they break.
I urge you to cast your every vote to continue
funding of the MX-peacekeeper missile that is
vitally needed to modernize our aging strategic
deterrent.
Signed
Place
Name
Stamp
Here
Address
Congressman
United States House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515
Item 2
UNITED STATES
DEFENSE COMMITTEE
September 6, 1983
Dear Member:
I'm writing you today because of an emergency we
face in Congress.
The centerpiece of President Reagan's plan to rebuild
America's defenses, the Peacekeeper - MX missile, is in
deep trouble in the House of Representatives.
So far this year, thanks to your help, we've won
two important victories in Congress toward the deployment
of the MX.
But the final step in approving the deployment of
the MX is coming up shortly - perhaps within the next
10 days - when they will vote on the 1984 Defense Appropri-
ations Bill.
It is here that the so-called "peaceniks" plan to
kill the MX.
In fact, the anti-defense lobby is busy at this very
moment on Capitol Hill, using their arm twisting tactics
on Congressmen to get them to vote against the MX - Peacekeeper.
And Tip O'Neill and his cohorts are using every trick
they know. They are threatening to take away committee
spots and cut off campaign funds of democrats who don't
go along.
During the last session on the MX, 19 Democrat Congressmen
and one Republican switched their votes from yea to nay, leaving
the margin of victory at only 13 votes. And now that margin is
in doubt.
Your Congresswoman, Marge Roukema was the one Republican
who switched.
That's why it's vital you send the enclosed post
card to Congresswoman Roukema at once.
And why I pray you will take the extra post cards
I've enclosed and pass them on to your friends and neighbors
so they can help too.
Because many of those who switched, cited increasing
pressure from the well-orchestrated efforts of the "peaceniks"
and Tip O'Neill as the major reasons they sold us out.
The only way to counter this pressure is with a flood
of protest from the very folks a Congressman can't ignore.
People like you who actually live and vote in the
Congresswoman's district.
It is vitally important that you contact her now,
before the final vote, because if the MX is defeated now,
it probably will be lost for good and the previous 2 votes
will be rendered meaningless.
The fact of the matter is that the United States
has not added a single new land-based missile to our stra-
tegic inventory since 1965.
3238 Wynford Drive, Fairfax, Virginia 22031
And today simply because of age we are actually dis-
mantling one missile every 45 days.
Meanwhile, since 1969 (and the signing of the first
SALT agreement) the Soviets have increased their land-based
missile forces by over 50%.
Which shows again that we can't afford to base the
safety of American citizens on "trusting" the Soviets.
For history has shown that the Communists only sign
two kinds of treaties, those that clearly give them an
advantage, and those that they break.
And as the strategic balance has shifted over the
past 20 years in favor of the Soviets they have felt increasingly
free to pursue their expansionist aims.
They invaded Afghanistan, crushed freedom in Poland,
openly backed the PLO in the Middle East and with their
Cuban proxies in Central America are confronting us on
our own doorstep.
This is why we need your help.
You, your friends and neighbors must let your Congress-
man know that he was elected to represent you
not
Tip O'Neill and his type from Massachusetts.
To be victorious over the anti-defense liberals,
we need the help of you and other patriotic Americans.
Please can I count on you to:
1) Send the enclosed post card, or better yet send
a letter to your Congressman urging support
of the Mx.
2) Contact friends, neighbors and relatives and
urge them to also contact their represen-
tatives.
And can you possibly send a donation of $100, $50,
$25, or even $10 or $15 to USDC to aid our lobbying efforts
in the fight to save the MX and support a strong United
States defense.
Without the help of you and other concerned American's,
the MX will be just another lost cause.
So please, take the time to mail the post card to
your Congressman, and let him know that the people of
his district don't want him to sell out to the anti-defense
liberals.
Sincerely,
Huy L.
Henry L. Walther
Executive Vice President
HLW/peb
P.S. Our friends in Congress tell me the vote may be won
or lost by as little as one or two votes. Your cards
and letters along with your maximum contribution
can make the difference. Please act at once.
MX EMERGENCY REPLY
TO:
Henry Walther
Executive Vice President
United States Defense Committee
3238 Wynford Drive
Fairfax, Virginia 22031
Dear Mr. Walther:
Yes, I agree the MX missile must be built in order
to modernize our aging nuclear deterrent.
We cannot afford to base the safety of the American
people on "trusting" the Soviets.
As a contributing member of U.S.D.C. I urge you to
do all you can to help save President Reagan's plans to build
the MX-Peacekeeper.
To help in this emergency I have:
Sent my postcard to my Congressman.
Asked my friends and neighbors to mail
the extra cards you sent.
Enclosed is my extra emergency contribution
of:
$2,500
$1,000
$500
$250
$100
$50
$25
Other
No, I don't want to help in the MX battle.
From:
(Name)
(Address)
(City)
(State)
(Zip Code)
Dear Congressman:
As a member of the United States Defense Committee,
I believe that we cannot afford to base the safety
of the American people on "trusting" the Soviets.
History has shown that the Communists sign only
two kinds of treaties, those that clearly favor
them -- and those that they break.
I urge you to cast your every vote to continue
funding of the MX-peacekeeper missile that is
vitally needed to modernize our aging strategic
deterrent.
Signed
Place
Stamp
Name
Here
Address
Congressman
United States House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515
fik
UNITED STATES
DEFENSE COMMITTEE
Lieutenant General
Daniel O. Graham
United States Army, Retired
August 24, 1983
Dear USDC Member:
I've never written you before. But my trip to El Salvador
made such an impression I wanted to share it with you.
Our visit was very brief but I don't think I'll ever forget
my strong feelings of empathy with the Salvadorans.
I think the thing that registered the strongest was their
cheerful, determined attitudes -- despite the language barrier
-- that came across.
A displaced persons camp.
Standing in the middle of a hot sun drenched field filled
with make-shift dwellings made out of sticks and tin. Yet
these people had hope and determination.
What did they want?
Not for us to give them anything -- they wanted work.
None of this "you owe me a living, give me money, Senora."
Only thank you for your interest, may God bless you.
Old women, some of them with no teeth came up and kissed
me and said bless you, when can I go back to my farm.
Curious children of all shapes and sizes surrounded us
-- I saw no one put his hand out for money.
This to me, is the tragedy of El Salvador.
These people love their country and want to stay, they
don't want to have to come North to live in the U.S.
But they will! They will do whatever they have to in
order to live, keep their pride and work.
If El Salvador falls to the Communists, millions of people
3238 Wynford Drive, Fairfax, Virginia 22031
will be forced to leave their homes and travel North across
our borders to work, and live free of the restraints of a Marxist
regime.
Already, the U.S. is spending $225 million per year to
control the Mexican border. And despite that expenditure hundreds
of thousands of illegal immigrants stream across the border
every year.
If El Salvador falls, it's estimated that some three million
"Feet" people will stream through Mexico to the U.S. border.
And the plain fact is that if we tried to keep them out
the additional tax money that would have to be spent to do
it would be far more than the military aid President Reagan
wants to send El Salvador.
If on the other hand we let them in the cost of teaching
them English, and the cost to our economy would be truely mind
boggling.
And it's so tragic because these people don't want to
leave their homes.
But back to my impressions.
The displaced persons in the two camps we visited -- one
in San Vincente, the other in the town of San Francisco Gotera
-- are for the most part Campesinos (small farmers and peasants)
who have been forced to flee from the terrorists who roam their
small villages stealing and killing at will.
How refreshing it was to see poor, homeless people who
have not been corrupted by the welfare society -- who don't
have the something for nothing mentality.
We met with High Salvadoran government officials, visited
two hospitals and met private business leaders.
Nowhere did I encounter a defeatist attitude only a deter-
mination to save their country -- yet a quiet desperation that
the people in the United States don't understand.
Our Congress seems incapable of acting in time to help
the Salvadorans save their country.
The Salvadorans don't want hand outs. Over half of
the military aid we extend them is in loans,
not giveaway programs -- and most of the
rest is for training costs.
They don't want our troops.
There are thousands of men who want to be
soldiers and fight for their homeland --
but the government doesn't have the resources
to train them, feed them and pay them.
I returned from El Salvador with a strong feeling of affection
for this country and its people and a strengthened belief that
we must not let this country fall to the Communists thugs who
want to destroy it.
On August 15, General Graham sent you a special letter
on El Salvador asking you to send a postcard or write a letter
to your Congressman to urge support for President Reagan's
Central America policy.
If you haven't sent them yet, I beg you to do so at once.
Your postcards and financial support of the United States Defense
Committee are vital.
The Salvadorans pointed out that they can put 15 soldiers
in the field for what it costs the U.S. to keep one marine
on station in the U.S.
If ever there was a good investment for the U.S., it's
El Salvador and her people.
Sincerely,
Louise Late
Louise Tate
Secretary-Treasurer
LT/peb
P.S. Just in case you need them I've enclosed extra postcards
for you. Please do all you can.
Defense
VOL. 2 NO. 4 JULY/AUGUST 1983
Watch
DEDICATED TO A STRONG FOREIGN POLICY AND NATIONAL DEFENSE
USDC Sponsors Congressional Fact Finding Trip to El Salvador
Cuts in El Salvador Aid Jeopardize
Monroe Doctrine
As Defense Watch goes to press,
him from effectively resisting Marxist/
What initial action has taken place,
President Reagan's plan to uphold the
Leninist expansion.
however, on aid for El Salvador by the
Monroe Doctrine and help El Salvador
In fact, an urgent supplemental appro-
House Foreign Affairs Committee, and the
hold the line against Communist aggres-
priations bill for 1983 proposed by Presi-
Senate Foreign Relations Committee
sion has been delayed by Congress and
dent Reagan to rush additional aid to El
point to further deep cuts in aid for El
remains in deep trouble on Capitol Hill.
Salvador was only acted on by Congress
Salvador.
Yet despite the danger of Central
on July 29th, and resulted in deep cuts,
America becoming a time bomb ready to
slashing President Reagan's aid request
Despite Congressional Action,
explode northward through Mexico up to
for El Salvador in half.
Salvadoran People Eager to
the Rio Grande, anti-defense forces in
Meanwhile, with the fiscal year ending
Congress are continuing their furious
on September 30th, neither House of
Defend Democracy
assault on aid to El Salvador in an attempt
Congress has yet approved aid requests
to tie President Reagan's hands and keep
for El Salvador in 1984-85.
Fortunately, Congressional foot drag-
ging and attacks on military aid has not
dampened the spirit of the Salvadoran
people in their fight against Cuban and
Soviet inspired terrorism.
The Salvadoran army is already as
large as funding will allow and has thou-
sands of young men on waiting lists eager
to join the fight in defense of their demo-
cratically elected government.
El Salvador, a land of fertile farm areas
and intense pride only asks of Congress
and the American people a chance to learn
how to defend themselves from Marxist/
Leninist aggression and enough support to
feed and equip their army.
The Salvadoran military is also a bar-
gain, because it costs more to field one
Marine in the United States than fifteen
Salvadoran soldiers who are in the front
line against Marxist aggression.
The government also enjoys wide-
spread good will among the people, and
unlike Marxist dictatorships does not
Louise Tate, Secretary-Treasurer of the United
The faces of the advisors have been blacked
seize crops or homes to support the army,
States Defense Committee, confers with Ameri-
out in response to the U.S. policy that American
can military advisors on tactics used during a
advisors in El Salvador not have their pictures
even though it is strapped for funds.
recent push by the Salvadoran Army against
published.
Marxist terrorists in San Vicente Province.
El Salvador cont. on pg. 6
UNITED STATES DEFENSE COMMITTEE 3238 Wynford Drive, Fairfax, Virginia 22031
Defense Watch
"Boland Amendment" Would Make Nicaragua Safe for Soviet/Cuban Aggression
House Vote Would Cut Off Aid to
Anti-Marxist Forces in Nicaragua
The House of Representatives on July
Amendment" were "about to sell the
would have significantly improved the
28th, in a setback for President Reagan's
United States down the drain, and aid
"Boland Amendment," only to have the
plans to stop the spread of Soviet and
in the spread of Communism in Central
Committee reject all three amendments.
Cuban inspired terrorism throughout
America."
Unfortunately, it seems that many
Central America, voted 228 to 195 for the
Pounding the table during committee
anti-defense Congressmen are more con-
so-called "Boland Amendment" (H.R.
debate, Congressman Henry Hyde (R-IL)
cerned with forcing pro-American govern-
2760), originally introduced by Congress-
warned, that if the United States cut off aid
ments to share power with Marxist/
man Edward Boland (D-MA) to stop aid
to the Freedom Fighters, the Congress will
Leninists, than with stopping the expan-
for anti-Marxist forces in Nicaragua fight-
in effect, make it safe to be a Communist
sion of Soviet backed totalitarianism in
ing to free their country from the grip of
guerrilla
and death to be fighting for
Central America.
the Soviet Union and Cuba.
freedom in the hills of Nicaragua."
Sadly, should the Senate not block the
The action by the House would con-
"Boland Amendment," and if the efforts of
cede Nicaragua to the Soviet Union and
Pro-Defense Amendments
these anti-defense Congressmen succeed,
Cuba, as a safe base for the export of
Rejected by Foreign Affairs
it would not only abandon the Freedom
Marxist/Leninist revolution throughout
Committee
Fighters but could result in a major blood
Central America.
bath, as the Sandinistas begin to persecute
Clearly, even the vote by the House to
Recognizing the need to stop Com-
rural supporters of the Freedom Fighters,
give 80 million in aid to other threatened
munist advances, several pro-defense
as well as threaten the regional security of
pro-American governments in Central
the United States.
America to stop Nicaraguan export of
Members of the Foreign Affairs Commit-
Marxist/Leninist terrorism will not have
tee introduced three amendments that
"Boland Amendment" cont. on pg. 3
the same effect in stopping terrorism that
Nicaraguan Freedom Fighters have had in
tying down the Sandinista Junta.
U.S. Influence Declines as Other
Fortunately, consideration of the so-
called "Boland Amendment" now goes to
Countries Arm Latin America
the Senate, where the United States De-
fense Committee and other pro-defense
forces have a good chance of short-
7
stopping the House passed bill.
Billion
Boland Amendment Would
Cripple Fight Against
Marxist/Leninist Expansion
3.5
The House vote on the so-called
Billion
"Boland Amendment" (H.R. 2760), came
after months of hectic debate on both the
House floor and in the House Foreign
Relations Committee.
900
Pro-defense Members of the Foreign
Million
450
Relations Committee, during considera-
Million
tion of the "Boland Amendment" in June,
recognized the necessity of supporting the
U.S.
Other
U.S.
Other
Nicaraguan Freedom Fighters and several
emphatically warned the Committee of the
1973-1976
1977-1980
grave implications which would result if
the "Boland Amendment" were passed.
Soviet inspired Marxist/Leninist terrorism in El Salvador, and the
part been the result of an intentional aid cutback to pro-American
Congressmen Gerald B.H. Solomon
fall of Nicaragua has paralleled a period of declining American
governments, including El Savador by the Carter Administration.
influence in Latin America, as other nations including the Soviet
As a result, the Monroe Doctrine is now under siege as foreign
(R-NY) stated in Committee that anti-
Union rush in to arm anti-American governments.
powers try to carve out spheres of influence right on America's
defense forces in favor of the "Boland
The weakening of American influence in Latin America has in
doorstep.
2
Defense Watch
"Boland Amendment" cont. from pg. 2
while controlling the press, persecuting
free religious practice, stifling private busi-
Anti-Defense Congressmen
ness, and exiling the Miskito Indians.
Ignore Marxist/Leninist
Yet some Congressional leaders still
Oppression in Nicaragua
turn their backs on the flagrant, rule-by-
terror government in Nicaragua that con-
Also, many Members of the House
tinues to export violence, on our own
Foreign Relations Committee have gone
doorstep.
out of their way in refusing to recognize or
USDC Actively Opposes the
acknowledge Marxist/Leninist oppression
Boland Amendment
in Nicaragua.
In fact, Miguel Bolanos Hunter, a
Brad Palmer, Legislative Director of
recent Nicaraguan defector and former
the United States Defense Committee
Sandinista official has provided U.S. intelli-
stated: "In our effort to defeat the 'Boland
gence sources with the most valuable
Amendment,' the Committee contacted
information to date on the Sandinista's
every member of the House, and re-
oppressive government, and yet Hunter
peatedly warned them of the implications
has not been invited to speak before any
that the 'Boland Amendment' would have
Congressional committee.
on American interests in Central America.
Hunter has verified examples of
By not allowing the Nicaraguan people
Nicaraguan oppression, noting that
to confront their Soviet and Cuban
Nicaragua, "is the major focus of subver-
Congressman Henry Hyde (R-IL) an outspoken
masters, the House has pushed that
sion in this hemisphere," and is the chief
supporter of the anti-Marxist Freedom Fighters
responsibility onto the shoulders of the
supplier and promoter of insurrection in
in Nicaragua stated that if the so-called "Boland
Amendment" passed by the House became law,
governments in Central America, who are
El Salvador, aided by the Soviets, who
it would in effect "make it safe to be a communist
hardly a match for the Soviets, to handle
have promised the Sandinistas two AK-47
guerrilla
and death to be fighting for freedom
that task.
machine guns for every one sent to the
in the hills of Nicaragua."
Hopefully, with an all out effort by the
Marxist terrorists in El Salvador.
The Soviets have supplied Nicaragua
United States Defense Committee, the
with bazookas, machine guns, armored
Senate will see the light, and come out in
Soviets Back Military Threat in
personnel carriers, SAM missiles, and
strong support of the Nicaraguan Free-
Central America
200,000 AK-47's, along with several under-
dom Fighters.
ground missile bases.
This fight is far from over and will
There are presently, 5,000 Cuban
Also, the state security system is a
require the efforts of all our members to
"teachers" in Nicaragua, in addition to
direct copy of the KGB down to the hand-
contact their Senators and tell them that
2,000 undercover military advisors, 4,000
guns used which are identical to those
America must support the people of
state security advisors and 70 Soviet
used by the Soviets.
Central America in their stand against
advisors who, Hunter admits, have the
And the Nicaraguans continue to
Marxist terrorism."
real power.
refuse to hold long promised elections,
Anti-Defense Forces Dominate Budget Process
Defense Authorization Falls Short
in Meeting Defense Needs
Congress, in a move that will seriously
vote, and by the House several hours later
Pro-defense forces had hoped to take
undermine President Reagan's effort to
305 to 114, not only calls for 17 billion in
a stand in favor of a full defense budget in
rebuild American military strength against
defense cuts in 1984, but schedules drastic
the Senate to counter anti-defense ele-
Soviet aggression, passed in late July, a
defense cuts in each of the next three years.
ments in the House, only to be undercut
defense authorization bill for 1984 slashing
Meanwhile, Congress has passed a
by Senators Peter V. Domenici (R-NM) and
17 billion from President Reagan's original
budget increasing non-defense spending
Majority Leader Howard Baker (R-TN).
defense request.
in 1984 by over 21 billion, with further
The defense authorization bill passed
increases of 34 billion in 1985 and 32.1
by the Senate on July 26th in an 83 to 15
billion in 1986.
Defense Authorization cont. on pg. 4
3
Defense Watch
Defense Authorization cont. from pg. 3
plans for weapons modernization and the
Defense Responsibilities
number of commitments America is able
Demand Return to Armed
Domenici, Baker Push Deep
to maintain throughout the world.
Services Committees
Defense Cuts Through Senate
Anti-Defense Forces Control
Senator Tower strongly believes that
Budget Process
America's defense requires Congress to
Republican Domenici, as Chairman of
first closely examine defense needs before
the Senate Budget Committee, and
The actions by both Senators Baker
setting spending priorities.
Republican Howard Baker, as the orches-
and Domenici, do however, highlight how
Currently, instead of first determining
trator of floor action in the Senate, along
defense spending has been sacrificed in
America's defense needs, the Budget
with anti-defense Republican and Demo-
recent years.
Committees in Congress chaired by Pete
crat Senators are largely responsible for
Today because of so-called "reforms"
Domenici in the Senate and James Jones
the defense authorization bill which cuts
anti-defense forces on both the Senate and
(D-OK) in the House engage in political
President Reagan's defense requests while
House Budget Committees have seized
gamesmanship to establish budget figures
allowing non-defense spending to con-
control of defense spending from the
for defense before either the House or
stantly increase.
highly knowledgeable and experienced
Senate Armed Services Committee have
In an often tense and acrimonious
Armed Services Committees.
had a chance to seriously examine na-
Senate atmosphere, pro-defense Senators
tional defense requirements.
spent months fighting sell-outs by Dome-
The Budget Committees then propose
nici in the Senate Budget Committee and
spending figures for defense which often
maneuverings by Howard Baker on the
do not address new or urgent security
Senate floor.
needs.
Yet despite the efforts of pro-defense
The Armed Services Committees
Senators Bill Armstrong (R-CO) on the
meanwhile are forced to wait and see what
Budget Committee and John Tower
funds are available and then tailor Amer-
(R-TX) Chairman of the Senate Armed
ica's defense to what the Budget Commit-
Services Committee, the duo of Domenici
tees allow, rather than America's true
and Baker allied with anti-defense forces
defense needs.
have been a hard combination to beat.
In fact, most pro-defense observers
agree that both the defense authorization
USDC Urges Pro-Defense
bill for 1984 and the budget process have
Reform in Budget Process
been temporarily taken over by anti-
defense forces intent on thrusting the
burden of reducing national deficits
Brad Palmer, Legislative Director of
squarely on the back of the defense
the United States Defense Committee,
department.
praised those Senators who voted against
the chicanery in the 1984 defense authori-
zation, stating; "The whole budget pro-
U.S. Military Preparedness
cess, as it now works, is skewed against a
Jeopardized by Inadequate
Howard Baker (R-TN) orchestrated floor action
careful examination of defense needs.
Funding
in the Senate allowing a coalition of anti-defense
It seems that the defense authoriza-
forces to undercut full funding of the defense
budget in 1984. While slashing President
tion is just about the only place in which
Reagan's defense request by 17 billion, anti-
Congress is willing to sacrifice.
As a result of the defense authoriza-
defense forces increased non-defense spending
by over 21 billion in 1984 with further massive
In fact, anti-defense forces are using
tion, the procurement schedules of
increases scheduled in the years ahead.
the budget process as a sacred cow to
dozens of weapons have been delayed,
deflect attention away from run away non-
including the M-1 Abrams tank designed
Budget Committee Chairmen, like
defense spending in order to end-run
to counter Soviet and Warsaw Pact
Domenici, can now impose spending limits
efforts by the Congressional Armed Ser-
supremacy in tank forces, as well as front-
on national defense without careful con-
vices Committees to bolster America's
line jet fighters including the Air Force's
sideration of what America's defense
defense.
F-15 and the Navy's F-14 combat planes.
requirements entail - and at the same
Further, it is important for members of
In practical terms, what Baker and
time continue to fund the spiralling non-
the United States Defense Committee to
Domenici have done is to allow a stretched-
defense part of the budget that now con-
remember that the battle over the defense
out or delayed deployment of America's
sumes almost three out of four budget
budget is an ongoing struggle with the 1984
best frontline weapons, giving American
dollars.
defense appropriation bill yet to be voted
forces some weapons, but not enough to
Senator John Tower, however, Chair-
on by either chamber of Congress.
fully counter the Soviet threat in Europe
man of the Senate Armed Services Com-
Members should do all that they can to
and on the high seas.
mittee, is an outspoken opponent of the
contact their Congressmen and set them
The Defense Department, because of
current budget process, which has stripped
straight on America's urgent need to have
the defense authorization, is now faced
defense of adequate funding, and voted
a fully funded defense budget."
with the task of drastically scaling back
against the budget resolution.
4
Defense Watch
New Book on High Frontier Written by General Graham Now Available
High Frontier Vision Moves Closer
to Becoming Reality
Across America, people are hearing
Various efforts in support of High
national leaders are rallying around the
about High Frontier, and supporting the
Frontier are currently underway, ranging
vision of a space-based defense system.
new strategy for national survival devel-
from legislative activity and speeches to
oped by Lt. General Daniel Graham, USA
the production of books and films.
USDC Continues Fight for
(Ret.), President of the United States
Because of the message heard coming
High Frontier Defense System
Defense Committee.
from the American people, more and more
Congress is currently reviewing two
contradictory sets of resolutions which are
THE WHITE HOUSE
of crucial importance to America's na-
WASHINGTON
tional defense.
One set, S. Res. 100 and H. Res. 215,
June 3, 1983
encourages the placement, in space, of
non-nuclear weapons that can defend the
United States against incoming nuclear
Dear Dan:
missiles.
These resolutions are encouraging
It was very kind of you to dedicate your book
steps toward General Graham's High
to me. I appreciate the important work that
Frontier system.
you and your colleagues have done to prepare
Unfortunately, the other set, S.J. Res.
the way for a more secure America.
28 and H.J. Res. 120, would prohibit such a
defense system and push the United
You -- and all those who have made the High
States closer to a position of total inferior-
Frontier project a reality -- have rendered our
ity and vulnerability to Soviet forces.
country an invaluable service for which all
Convinced that the implementation of
future generations will be grateful. I value
a High Frontier defense system is vital to
greatly your continuing efforts to help us
build a national consensus and to find the
ensuring the existence of a free America,
the United States Defense Committee has
difficult answers for the profound strategic
problems that face all of us in this nuclear
continued to actively lobby Congress.
age.
In addition, personal visits to all Senate
offices have proved extremely valuable in
God bless you!
determining which Senators support High
Frontier, and also those who oppose
Sincerely,
defending America from space.
The United States Defense Commit-
tee has mailed a series of letters to all
Ronald Reagan
Congressional offices in support of High
Frontier related legislation.
High Frontier Flooded With
Lt. General Daniel O. Graham, USA, Ret.
High Level Support
High Frontier
Suite 1000
On June 3rd, President Ronald Reagan
1010 Vermont Avenue, N.W.
sent a personal letter to Lt. General
Washington, D.C. 20005
Graham, commending him for "invaluable
service" to our country.
The letter is further confirmation of
President Reagan's commitment to the
The above letter to Lt. General Graham, USA
Now, members of the United States Defense
(Ret.), by President Reagan on June 3rd, is
Committee and other concerned Americans
vision of seeing a High Frontier type sys-
another sign of the importance that High
must contact the politicians on Capitol Hill and
tem implemented as America's defense
Frontier has already had in helping to frame a
convince them to follow the lead of both Presi-
new national strategy to defend America.
dent Reagan and General Graham.
strategy.
High Frontier cont. on pg. 6
5
Defense Watch
High Frontier cont. from pg. 5
General Graham has followed a hectic
Admiral James D. Watkins, Chief of
speaking schedule that has taken him
Pro-Defense Supporters
Naval Operations, shares President
back and forth across the United States
Continue Fight For a Strategy
Reagan's vision and stated in a recent
and to other nations calling for wide rang-
of National Survival
speech, "I fully support and am entirely
ing support for High Frontier.
committed to the comprehensive and
Grass roots support is rapidly forming
The United States Defense Commit-
intellectually sound strategic vision en-
thanks to the work of the dedicated Ameri-
tee will not stop lobbying efforts until the
hanced by the President."
cans led by General Graham.
day that High Frontier actually becomes
Former National Security Advisor
In addition, a new book written by
the official defense policy of the United
Richard Allen told USA Today, "Dan
General Graham, High Frontier: A Stra-
States.
Graham has labored long and hard
I
tegy for National Survival, has been pub-
As Henry L. Walther, Executive Vice
think we will one day look back on his
lished by TOR books and is receiving
President of the United States Defense
work with gratitude, wondering why we
extremely favorable reviews across the
Committee, has repeatedly stated, "We
did not get on with it sooner."
country.
must be vigilant in our fight for a strong
And Vice President George Bush, in
And we have learned that a feature
defense, if America is to remain free and
praising the High Frontier system, said "an
length entertainment film, dealing with the
prosperous."
awful lot of good thinking has gone into the
High Frontier system, is currently being
High Frontier approach."
handled by major film producers and is set
to be released sometime next year, which
High Frontier Promoted
should garner even more support from
Across USA
concerned Americans.
El Salvador cont. from pg. 1
Refugee Tidal Wave Into U.S. if
Further, the collapse of El Salvador
Ironically, much of the debate in Con-
Marxist/Leninists Seize Power
could sweep away the remaining pro-
gress has been on whether to allow the El
American governments in Central Amer-
Salvadoran government to receive loans
ica and send millions of refugees across
for military equipment which would be
Clearly, it is in America's interests to
the Rio Grande.
paid back.
support El Salvador not only because it is
Salvadorans, like most other Central
So, unlike other recipients of Ameri-
pro-American, but because of El Salva-
Americans, do not want to leave their
can military aid, the Salvadorans do not
dor's strategic position as a frontline state
homes and land, but will be forced to if
ask for endless give away programs but
against Soviet and Cuban inspired adven-
Marxist/Leninism continues to sweep
instead are willing to provide for them-
turism, and to protect the Panama Canal
northward.
selves if Congress will give them a chance.
from aggression.
Many experts predict that up to 10
million refugees could stream into the
United States taking jobs and overcrowd-
ing school systems.
The cost of relocating, and educating
the refugees would of course be many
times more than present aid requests for
El Salvador submitted by President
Reagan to Congress.
House Foreign Affairs Committee
Slashes Aid for El Salvador
Ignoring the danger of a Central Amer-
ican time bomb, the House Foreign Affairs
Committee moved in June to brush aside
President Reagan's reasoned request for
additional aid in 1984-85 to help the demo-
cratically elected government of El Salva-
dor counter a Soviet and Cuban inspired
terrorist invasion.
Instead, the House Committee, after
heated and prolonged debate, issued
House Report 98-192 which not only
Congressman Bill McCollum (R-FL) confers
Roberto d'Aubuisson decried the suffering
slashed President Reagan's request in half,
with Roberto d'Aubuisson, President of El
imposed on El Salvador's people by Soviet and
Salvador's Constituent Assembly and leader of
Cuban supported terrorists.
the National Republican Alliance Party (ARENA).
El Salvador cont. on pg. 7
6
Defense Watch
El Salvador cont. from pg. 6
approving only 65 million in aid, rather
than 136 million, but also imposed a set of
conditions on aid that are so restrictive
and comprehensive that they in effect
straightjacket the Salvadoran government
in combatting the Marxist/Leninist
terrorists.
Of the 65 million dollars allowed by the
House Committee, 15 million has been
arbitrarily siphoned off into special pro-
jects, leaving the Salvadoran government
only 50 million dollars with which to
oppose the Marxist/Leninist terrorists.
El Salvador Government
Handcuffed by House in Fight
Against Terrorists
The conditions imposed upon the aid
While the national media refused to give cover-
Pictured above during the press conference
age to the Congressional fact finding trip spon-
are (left to right), Congressmen Eldon Rudd
package as a whole, are the most detailed
sored by the United States Defense Committee;
(R-AZ), Bill McCullom (R-FL), and Stan Parris
ever written by Congress, and fill up over
the local media in Miami and Orlando turned
(R-VA).
10 pages of fine print.
out in force.
In fact, sweeping aside Cuban and
of American commitment to the pro-
placed persons camps in San Vicente and
Soviet inspired terror, Congressman
American government in El Salvador,
San Francisco Gotera.
Stephen J. Solarz (D-NY) and other anti-
the United States Defense Committee
Upon return to the United States,
defense elements are trying to force the
sponsored a fact finding tour for three
Congressmen Parris, McCollum, and
Salvadoran government into unconditional
Congressmen.
Rudd held a press conference in Miami
negotiations to share power with the
The Congressmen, Stan Parris (R-VA),
with local affiliates of the three national
Marxist terrorists.
Eldon Rudd (R-AZ), and Bill McCollum
television networks to support President
What the action by Solarz does, is to
(R-FL) were accompanied by two senior
Reagan's efforts to stem the spread of
ignore the Salvadoran elections held last
staff members of the United States De-
Communism in Central America.
March in which over 80% of Salvadorans
fense Committee and, inspected efforts by
Congressman McCollum then flew to
voted, and instead pander to the Marxist
the Salvadoran army to halt Communism,
Orlando, Florida to hold an additional
terrorists who have shunned the electoral
and visited hospitals and teeming dis-
El Salvador cont. on pg. 8
process and who are trying to shoot their
way into power.
The President of El Salvador, Alvaro
Magana in Washington, in mid June, ex-
pressed shock at the Congressional condi-
tions stating: "I have no authority to share
power, because it comes from a very full
democratic process."
Ironically, Congressmen like Solarz
talk about the importance of democracy,
and yet are the first to impose undemo-
cratic conditions on the people of El
Salvador.
USDC Familiarizes
Congressmen With Fight for
Democracy in El Salvador
As readers of Defense Watch know,
the United States Defense Committee, is
in the forefront of the battle to draw a line
Right to left, Congressmen Stan Parris (R-VA),
President Magana pointed out that El Salva-
against further Communist advance in
Eldon Rudd (R-AZ), the President of ElSalvador
dor is not asking for handouts from Congress,
Central America.
Alvaro Magana, Congressman Bill McCollum
but instead wants to be allowed to buy enough
and Ken Bleakley, Charge d'Affaires of the
military equipment to defeat the Marxist
In an effort to highlight the importance
American Embassy in El Salvador.
terrorists.
7
Defense Watch
many Congressmen have gone out of their
way to undermine a frontline state in the
battle for democracy right on America's
doorstep.
USDC Mounts Campaign to
Defend Monroe Doctrine
The United States Defense Commit-
tee, in other activities in behalf of full aid to
El Salvador, has conducted an exhaustive
survey of every Member of the House
asking their position on aid.
Even though a Congressional vote on
aid by both Houses of Congress will not
take place until after the August Congres-
sional recess, the United States Defense
Committee and other pro-defense groups
already are gearing up for the battle ahead.
Henry L. Walther, Executive Vice
President of the United States Defense
Congressman Stan Parris (R-VA), on a visit to a
and the opportunity to return to their land and
displaced persons camp in San Vicente is sur-
work.
Committee stated: "The coming vote over
rounded by the children of farmers who have
The face of the American advisor has been
aid will be one of those decisive moments
been forced from their land by Marxist terrorists.
blacked out in response to U.S. policy that
The Salvadorans do not want handouts, they
American advisors in El Salvador not have their
watched by Moscow and the world to see if
only ask for the means to defeat the Marxists
pictures published.
America is still willing to maintain her
commitments throughout the Americas.
El Salvador cont. from pg. 7
ever, to stem an anti-defense mood in the
If the Congress chooses, because of
Unfortunately, the national media only
House of Representatives over full funding
lack of resolve, not to uphold the Monroe
chose to cover a group of Congressmen
of aid for El Salvador.
Doctrine, and stop the pernicious spread
sympathetic with the Marxist/Leninists in
The aid package itself is facing opposi-
of foreign totalitarianism, then our entire
Nicaragua, including Congressmen Don
tion completely out of proportion with the
defense structure throughout the world
Edwards (D-CA), and George Miller
small amounts President Reagan requested.
will be undermined.
(D-CA), who arrived in the United States
The same House Committee which
Members of the United States De-
on the same day as the United States De-
slashed 92 million dollars of aid for El
fense Committee are urged to contact
fense Committee's pro-defense delegation.
Salvador has also approved a general mili-
their Congressmen on this important issue
tary package aid for other American allies
and make them feel the heat.
of 7.2 billion dollars.
American Interests Require More
Only the wrath of angry constituents
The full El Salvador aid package, if it
will turn around many politicians either
Aid for Central America
had been approved would have consti-
afraid or unwilling to take a decisive stand
tuted only 2 percent of overall military aid
for democracy in Central America."
It will take a concerned effort by all
given by the United States for 1984.
pro-defense groups in Washington, how
It is thus hard to understand why so
Editor, John R. Crane
Defense Watch is published by the United States Defense
Committee. 3238 Wynford Drive, Fairfax, Virginia, 22031,
Phone (703) 281-5517.
President
Lt. Gen. Daniel O. Graham USA (Ret.)
Executive Vice-President
Henry L. Walther
Secretary-Treasurer
Louise Tate
Legislative Director
Bradley D. Palmer
Director of Research and Publications
John R. Crane
Defense Watch
<<<
8
UNITED STATES
DEFENSE COMMITTEE
MEMBER REPLY
Dear Mrs. Tate:
Thank you for sending me your personal
report on the situation in El Salvador.
I agree that President Reagan's Central
American strategy of providing military supplies
and training for our friends against Cuban/
Soviet sponsored aggression is both the
right thing to do and over the long run
the least expensive.
I have:
Enclosed a special additional
contribution of $
to
help USDC's continuing effort
to lobby the congress on Central
America,
Sent a postcard to my Congressman,
Passed the extra postcard on to
others and asked them to send
them to their congressmen.
Sincerely,
(Name)
(Address)
(City)
(State)
(Zip)
3238 Wynford Drive, Fairfax, Virginia 22031
Dear Congressman:
As a registered voter in your district, I
urge you to support President Reagan's
legislation to provide military and economic
aid to El Salvador and other Central American
nations.
Congress cannot stand idly by and watch
these countries fall like dominoes to the
Soviet-backed Communist guerrillas.
That would result in the tragic exodus of
millions of Central American refugees from
their homelands into the United States,
severely straining our economy.
Signed
Dear Congressman:
As a registered voter in your district, I
urge you to support President Reagan's
legislation to provide military and economic
aid to El Salvador and other Central American
nations.
Congress cannot stand idly by and watch
these countries fall like dominoes to the
Soviet-backed Communist guerrillas.
That would result in the tragic exodus of
millions of Central American refugees from
their homelands into the United States,
severely straining our economy.
Signed
Dear Congressman:
As a registered voter in your district, I
urge you to support President Reagan's
legislation to provide military and economic
aid to El Salvador and other Central American
nations.
Congress cannot stand idly by and watch
these countries fall like dominoes to the
Soviet-backed Communist guerrillas.
That would result in the tragic exodus of
millions of Central American refugees from
their homelands into the United States,
severely straining our economy.
Signed
Place
Stamp
Name
Here
Address
Representative
United States House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515
Place
Stamp
Name
Here
Address
Representative
United States House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515
Place
Stamp
Name
Here
Address
Representative
United States House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515
in it you, the mail. would
Just got this
want Knew The to see credit - Thanks is
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
December 7, 1983
1110
yours
MM
Dear Mr. Walther:
I want to thank you, General Graham, and the mem-
bers of the United States Defense Committee for your
help in developing support in the Congress for both
my Central American policies and for the budget
items necessary to rebuild America's defenses.
By flooding Congressional offices with post cards
and letters backing a strong defense, your members
are having a direct impact. Together we've been
able to win some important victories in the Congress.
The fight is far from over. But with the continued
support of people like you and General Graham, I'm
confident we will prevail in our drive to provide a
strong national defense and to secure peace and
freedom in generations to come.
Please keep up the good work. God bless you.
Sincerely,
Ronald Reagan
Mr. Henry L. Walther
Executive Vice President
United States Defense Committee
3238 Wynford Drive
Fairfax, Virginia 22031
Defense
VOL. 2 NO. 6 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 1983
Watch
DEDICATED TO A STRONG FOREIGN POLICY AND NATIONAL DEFENSE
Anti-Defense Forces Cripple Some Key Weapons Systems
Congress Funds Most Weapons,
But Slows Reagan Build-up
Congress, in a blow against President
lobbying Capitol Hill the morning that the
Literally thousands of letters from
Reagan's drive to rebuild American mili-
Conference Committee met to set the final
members of the United States Defense
tary strength against Soviet aggression,
figures and hand-delivered strongly
Committee, in selected swing states and
passed a Defense Appropriations bill (H.R.
worded letters from Executive Vice Presi-
districts, played a vital role in pressuring
4185) on November 18th that appro-
dent Henry Walther, reminding the Con-
wavering Congressmen to resist further
priated some twenty-five billion dollars less
ference Committee members that, after
cuts that were pushed by anti-defense
than President Reagan had originally re-
ten months of legislative struggle, the
politicians on the Conference Committee.
quested at the start of the year.
Congress had already cut billions from
While the Defense Appropriations bill
President Reagan's original budget request.
Congress Hesitates As Soviets
does provide for increases in defense
The combined efforts of the United
Push Ahead With Space
spending over last year, it does not do
States Defense Committee, veterans'
what is necessary to equip American
groups and other pro-defense organiza-
Weapons
soldiers with the most up-to-date equip-
tions helped put the heat on Congress that
The hand-delivered letters from Henry
ment, and even jeopardizes the ability of
prevented them from chopping even more
L. Walther pushed for $19.4 million in
America to defend vital economic and
from the President's original request.
Defense Appropriations cont. on pg. 2
military interests around the world.
Of course, any refusal by Congress to
appropriate what is needed in defense
spending, sends the wrong signal to
HO
Moscow, but it is especially damaging now
with American military forces already
stretched thin around the world in an
effort to stop Soviet adventurism.
Wavering Congressmen
Pressured to Support Strong
Defense
The United States Defense Commit-
tee and other pro-defense organizations
went all out to get the best possible De-
fense Appropriations bill passed by the
House-Senate Defense Appropriations
Conference Committee that recom-
mended the final defense spending levels,
Congress, while approving defense increases
eight planes reduced down to thirty-six.
and pointed out to them the pro-defense
for most weapons systems over last year's level,
still did not go far enough in the effort to rebuild
The dual role F-15 fighter used for both air-
position on a variety of issues.
American defenses against Soviet aggression.
to-air and air-to-ground combat roles is shown
In fact, legislative staff from the United
above being outfitted with AIM-9 Sidewinder
The Air Force F-15 fighter program, for
States Defense Committee were busy
and AIM-7 Sparrow missiles,
instance, has had its original request of forty-
UNITED STATES DEFENSE COMMITTEE 3238 Wynford Drive, Fairfax, Virginia 22031
Defense Watch
"Defense Appropriations" from pg. 1
ment of the Trident submarine, the sea-
funds for development and deployment of
based leg of America's deterrent.
an anti-satellite weapon to deter Soviet
The Peacekeeper (MX) was also voted
attacks on U.S. communications satellites
a go-ahead by Congress but at a much
linking American forces overseas with the
lower level than pro-defense forces had
Pentagon.
hoped for in the spring.
Congress did approve funds for
Funding levels for the Peacekeeper
development of anti-satellite weapons, but
(MX) are $668 million less than originally
withheld release of the funds until Presi-
requested, allowing for the initial develop-
dent Reagan presents a so-called "arms
ment of 21 rather than 27 Peacekeeper
control" proposal to the Soviet Union to
missiles.
ban satellite weapons.
The Peacekeeper (MX) is, of course,
Henry Walther, in his letter to Confer-
vital to America's security because it is the
ence Committee members, pointed out
only U.S. land-based missile accurate
the reasons for immediate deployment of
enough to destroy Soviet missiles in their
anti-satellite weapons stating that, "The
silos in case an attack is launched against
Soviets are already active in space and are
the United States.
building an advantage.
The Minuteman missiles, now on
In fact, the Soviets already have an
station, while still an indispensable part of
anti-satellite weapon that has been
America's deterrent, are today unable to
successfully tested.
destroy the newer super-hardened Soviet
Clearly, the United States must
missile silos.
respond to the Soviet military threat in
The advantage of being able to destroy
space with more than just research and
Soviet missile silos, is that the Peace-
development."
keeper would prevent additional waves of
Further, time lost playing cat-and-
Congress approved funds for the procure-
missiles from being fired by the Soviet
mouse with the Soviets over yet another
ment of the Pershing II missile, but cut back fur-
Union.
so-called "arms control" agreement will
ther research and development funds for the
Also, unless the Peacekeeper (MX) is
missile itself.
play into the Soviet hands allowing them to
deployed, America's land-based missile
build a commanding lead.
The Pershing II, at the request of America's
force to deter Soviet aggression will
NATO allies will be deployed in Europe to
Walther went on to state: "We must
counter the Soviet build-up.
actually shrink, because in 1983 alone,
show the Soviets that America is dedi-
54 Titan II missile launchers are scheduled
cated to end-run Soviet military advances
for deactivation without any new missiles
in space by actually producing a workable
who has stated: "If Adolf Hitler and the
being produced.
anti-satellite weapon, with an eye toward
Nazi war machine had not been convinced
rapid deployment of a space-based system
that we had the capability as we did, they
USDC Continues to Put Heat
of ballistic missile defense."
would have used gas on invading troops
on Congress
at Normandy."
Walther went on to state that, "In
Congress Defeats Deployment
Walther, commenting on the battle
today's world, the Soviets have shown that
of Chemical Deterrent Needed
over the 1984 defense budget stated: "The
they will use chemical weapons wherever
United States Defense Committee is
to Deter Soviet Advantage
and whenever Soviet forces confront an
working hard now, and has worked hard
enemy without a chemical deterrent.
all year to save President Reagan's defense
The need for America to produce a
Already, tens of thousands of Afghans,
build-up against Soviet aggression.
modernized chemical deterrent to counter
Laotians and Cambodians have fallen
The United States Defense Commit-
the threat of Soviet chemical warfare in an
victim to Soviet "yellow rain" largely,
tee staff along with thousands of members
attack against American troops in Europe
because anti-Communist forces in these
have repeatedly contacted every member
was also strongly urged in Walther's letter
nations had no chemical weapons with
of Congress and are doing so right now to
to members of the Conference Committee.
which to retaliate."
hold the feet of the politicians to the fire.
The Conference Committee, however,
In the final Appropriations bill we did
stripped production funds from the De-
get most of the defense programs passed
fense Appropriations bill while agreeing to
Congress Agrees to Most Funds
that were targeted at the start of the year,
maintain funds for further research and
but unfortunately at lower spending levels
development.
for Peacekeeper (MX), B-1B
than are necessary.
The decision by Congress to deny
Bomber and Trident Subs
Together, a lot has been accomplished,
American troops a chemical deterrent
but clearly a lot more needs to be done.
against Soviet use of chemical weapons
Pro-defense forces did, however,
Beginning next year, it will be up to the
comes despite the desperate need for the
succeed in gaining development and pro-
United States Defense Committee and its
United States to modernize and deploy a
curement funds for the modernization of
members to force Congress to pass a
new chemical deterrent, which has been
America's nuclear deterrent against a
supplemental appropriations bill to restore
forcefully pointed out by Congressman
Soviet first strike including multi-year
funds cut during the course of the budget
William Dickinson, ranking Republican on
funding for the B-1B bomber designed to
and authorization process."
the House Armed Services Committee
replace the aging B-52 and for procure-
2
Defense Watch
News Media Miss Real Story of Grenada
American Action in Grenada Halts New
Soviet/Cuban Thrust
As readers of Defense Watch know,
engaged Cuban troops in pitched battle
The real story of the invasion was that
on October 25th, the United States re-
at the Salines International Airport.
President Reagan's bold move into
sponded to an urgent appeal from six of
Unfortunately, many in the media
Grenada broke an important link in the
its Caribbean allies and liberated the
were so caught up in an "adversary" role
Soviet strategic chain of control and, at
people of Grenada from a bloody and
against American policy that they failed
one stroke, put the Soviets and Cubans
chaotic Marxist dictatorship.
to report the real news.
on the defensive in the Western Hemi-
Cuban troops, backed-up by Soviet,
It was almost amusing to watch Chan-
sphere.
East German and North Korean advisors,
cellor, Rather and company, desperately
One has only to look at the statistics
had turned the beautiful and strategically
try to find even one medical student who
and map to see that the Caribbean is vital
located island into a nightmare as they
said he was not in danger.
to the United States.
tried to impose successively more radical
Geographically, the islands of the
regimes on the people of Grenada-
Grenada Would Have Been
Caribbean form relatively narrow pas-
endangering everyone on the island.
Threat to American Oil Lifelines
sages through which ships must navigate,
The American news media, however,
making it very easy for the Soviets to
by focusing exclusively on the safety of
The truth of course, was that the
threaten these "choke points."
American medical students missed the
Cuban "construction workers" turned out
Nearly two-thirds of our foreign trade
most important story of what was happen-
to be heavily armed troops.
and one-half of our petroleum passes
ing in Grenada.
They served as testimony to the fact
through the Caribbean.
They missed the long-term strategic
that the island was being converted into a
Additionally, the United States im-
blow dealt the Soviets and their Cuban
Soviet and Cuban base endangering
ports 97 percent of its manganese, 93 per-
proxies when the first American Rangers
American security in the Caribbean.
cent of its bauxite and 76 percent of its
Grenada cont. on pg. 4
Chart by United States Defense Committee
Atlantic Ocean
Gulf of Mexico
Mexico
2
1
4
3
N
Guatemala
Grenada
Honduras
Caribbean Sea
5
Nicaragua
El Salvador
Primary Sea Lanes "Choke Points"
Guyana
in the Caribbean
(:)
Suriname
1. Yucatan Channel
Costa Rica
2. Florida Straits
3. Windward Passage
4. Mona Passage
5. Trinidad Route
Pacific Ocean
Countries under Soviet/Cuban influence
6. Panama Canal
or fighting Marxist terrorism
The chart above points out the growing
Nearly two-thirds of America's foreign trade
The liberation of Grenada denied the Soviets
Soviet/Cuban threat against Caribbean ship-
and nearly one-half of America's oil passes
and Cubans a vital air base from which to domi-
ping lanes going to and coming from America.
through geographically vulnerable choke points.
nate several key choke points and eased the
threat to Venezuela's oil fields.
3
Defense Watch
"Grenada" from pg. 3
almost a thousand miles closer to
Thus the Soviet/Cuban subversion of
nickel.
Africa than Cuba, also would have
Grenada was not simply an attempt to
Most of the required amounts of these
been a vital refueling stop for Cuban
take over a small island nation but rather
strategic minerals - essential to Ameri-
troops and supplies en route to
a part of a global Soviet strategy.
ca's aerospace and communications in-
Africa;
dustries - are supplied by Caribbean
Enabled Cuban and Soviet war-
nations through the Caribbean "choke
Grenada Action Put Soviets and
planes to threaten U.S. shipping
points."
through the vital Trinidad and
Cubans on Defensive
Soviets/Cubans Prepared
Tobago "choke points."
Encouragingly, one of the many bene-
Grenada as Air Base Against
fits of standing up to Marxism in Grenada
American Interests
Grenada Was Part of Global
has been a sudden policy reversal by
Soviet Strategy
Suriname, which has expelled its Cuban
Soviet and Cuban interests in Gre-
Ambassador, and has for now stopped its
nada were also visible in the 10,000 foot-
Since 1975, Cuba has been doing the
slide toward Soviet and Cuban control.
long runway under construction at Port
Soviets' dirty work around the world.
In addition, because the U.S. has put
Salines, that was clearly designed to pose a
In Africa, there are now more than
the Cubans on the defensive close to
threat to American interests in the Carib-
30,000 Cuban troops, fighting proxy wars
home, there is speculation that Castro will
bean and, indeed, the entire Atlantic.
in Ethiopia, Mozambique and Angola.
be forced to withdraw at least some of his
Had the Salines airport remained
At the time of America's liberation of
troops from Africa.
under Marxist control it would have:
Grenada, the Soviets, with the aid of their
Commenting on the Grenadian inva-
Been a base from which Soviet-
Cuban proxy troops, were not just turning
sion, Henry L. Walther, Executive Vice
made aircraft could target the oil-
Grenada into a Marxist colony, but were
President of the United States Defense
fields of Venezuela on the Carib-
also trying to turn El Salvador and Hon-
Committee stated: "The Soviets and the
bean perimeter, and even the lanes
duras into Marxist colonies - subversion
Cubans must be told in no uncertain terms
of the supertankers in the mid-
which continues to this day.
that the Western Hemisphere is off-limits
Atlantic that carry oil to Europe and
Already, Soviet and Cuban backed
to Marxist terrorism.
the United States;
forces have captured control of Nicaragua
President Reagan's decision to liberate
Provided a convenient and close
and are actively trying to wrestle the South
Grenada is thus an important step in re-
jumping-off point for the departure
American countries of Guyana and Suri-
establishing the Monroe Doctrine and
of Cuban troops for Africa to fight
name, also on the Caribbean perimeter,
stopping Soviet adventurism."
pro-Western forces. Grenada,
into the Marxist camp.
Monroe Doctrine Ignored As Refugee Crisis Looms
Congress Cuts Back Aid Request
for El Salvador
For the second year in a row, Con-
Marxist aggression.
gress has refused to pass an Appropria-
As a result, this has had the effect of
tions bill giving aid to El Salvador and
slashing fully 25 percent from President
ducked its responsibility to uphold the
Reagan's request for military assistance to
Monroe Doctrine and deter Communist
El Salvador for fiscal year 1984.
aggression in Central America.
To make matters worse, Congress
Instead, at the last minute on Novem-
once again imposed a set of conditions on
ber 11, Congress passed a Continuing
aid that are so restrictive and comprehen-
Appropriations Resolution (H.J. Res. 413)
sive that they in effect straightjacket the
for El Salvador which only keeps funding
Salvadoran government in combating
limping along at out-of-date levels rather
Marxist/Leninist terrorism.
than approving a full foreign aid bill to help
Fred Ikle, Under Secretary of Defense
El Salvador defend itself against brutal
for Policy, has warned that current aid
levels do not give Salvadorans the ability to
Congressman Mark Siljander (R-MI) has
effectively repel continued guerrilla attacks.
forcefully pointed out that the potential refugee
Ikle stated that, unless Congress votes
problem caused by continued Marxist expan-
sion in Central America could "prove to be our
more funds, not much can be done to
nation's greatest domestic crisis."
improve the capacity of Government
forces to respond quickly, and that we
If El Salvador falls, then Marxism could
sweep north to the Rio Grande causing ten
need to provide more helicopters and light
million refugees to flood into the United States.
aircraft.
El Salvador cont. on pg. 5
4
Defense Watch
"El Salvador" from pg. 4
USDC Members Again Active During Special Elections
If Central America Falls, Refugee
Tidal Wave Will Sweep U.S.
Pro-Defense Congressman
Clearly, it is in America's interests to
support El Salvador not only because it is
Scores Victory in Georgia
pro-American, but because of El Salva-
dor's strategic position as a front line state
against Soviet and Cuban inspired adven-
The United States Defense Commit-
out for a strong defense.
turism, and to protect the Panama Canal
tee's staff, working with dedicated and
In response to membership activity in
from aggression.
concerned USDC members in the states
the district, sixteen of the candidates re-
If El Salvador collapses, the remaining
of Georgia and Washington, made a
sponded including ten candidates who
pro-American governments in Central
special effort recently to pin Congres-
answered every question correct.
America could be swept away, sending
sional candidates down on vital defense
As a result, many fine candidates had
millions of refugees across the Rio Grande.
issues for their special November 8th
to lose, but in any case it is now up to the
Most Salvadorans, like most other
elections.
members of the United States Defense
Central Americans, do not want to leave
In both the special elections in the
Committee in Georgia and other pro-
their friends, their homes and their land,
Georgia 7th and in Washington state, the
defense forces to make sure that Con-
and be forced to start over in a strange
Democrat and Republican candidates
gressman Darden casts his first and every
land where they cannot even speak the
were sent Defense Questionnaires by the
vote in favor of a strong defense.
language.
United States Defense Committee and
But that is exactly what they will be
were asked to take a stand on thirteen key
Evans Defeats Anti-Defense
forced to do if Marxist/Leninism continues
issues vital to a strong foreign policy and
to sweep northward.
national defense.
Congressman Lowry
Top experts predict that up to 10
In Washington state the outcome was
million refugees would stream into the
Georgia's New Congressman
less clear for pro-defense forces.
United States, taking jobs and overcrowd-
Supports Strong Defense
The vacancy caused by the death of
ing school systems.
pro-defense Senator Henry M. "Scoop"
The cost of relocating and educating
the refugees would, of course, be many
The special election in Georgia's 7th
Jackson was filled by ex-Governor Dan
Evans, but not before a hotly contested
times more than present aid requests for
district was called to fill the vacancy
El Salvador submitted by President
caused by the tragic death of pro-defense
race in which anti-defense Congressman
Reagan in Congress.
Congressman Larry McDonald, who was
Mike E. Lowry scored 44 percent of the
killed by the Soviets along with 268 other
vote while Dan Evans tallied 55 percent.
defenseless passengers on KAL flight 007
Unfortunately, neither candidate re-
on August 31st.
sponded to the Candidate Questionnaire
USDC Campaigns in Defense of
The Georgia race fielded many strong-
sent to them by the United States Defense
Monroe Doctrine
ly pro-defense candidates and was even-
Committee.
tually won by State Representative
It is known, however, that Senator
As readers of Defense Watch know,
George "Buddy" Darden who (although
Evans has been more responsive on de-
the United States Defense Committee is
he answered at the last minute) did come
fense issues than Mike Lowry has been.
in the forefront of the battle to draw a line
against further Communist advance in
USDC Members Help
Central America.
Congressmen Support Strong
Looking toward the future, Henry L.
Defense
Walther, Executive Vice President of the
United States Defense Committee points
Brad Palmer, Legislative Director of
out that, "The recent action by the U.S.
the United States Defense Committee in
Congress on continued military aid to El
Salvador demonstrates that the lesson of
commenting on the results of the special
election stated that, "Thanks to the con-
Grenada was lost on many of our
cerned members of the USDC, the Con-
Representatives.
gressional victors in Georgia and the state
The Monroe Doctrine, invoked by
of Washington know that thousands of
President Reagan in sweeping a Soviet
Americans are determined to stop the
base from the Caribbean, has yet to be
erosion of American power, and are willing
really enforced in Central America.
to put the heat on the politicians."
That's why the United States Defense
Committee will launch a major new effort
in the first half of 1984 to obtain full funding
State Representative George "Buddy"
Darden, winner of the special election in the
for El Salvador as well as redoubling its
Georgia 7th district, to fill the vacancy caused
efforts on behalf of the Contra Freedom
by the tragic death of Larry McDonald, came
Fighters in Nicaragua."
out for a strong defense in answer to the USDC
candidate questionnaire.
5
Defense Watch
Funding Still Needed For Full Year
Congress Votes Aid For Freedom
Fighters in Nicaragua
The Intelligence Authorization bill
increasing military presence.
Soviets and the Cubans have turned
passed by Congress on November 18th,
While it is true that Cuba claims most
Nicaragua into a base for the subversion
while a boost for pro-American Contra
of its troops in Nicaragua to be "technical
of all pro-American governments in the
Freedom Fighters, still falls far short of
advisors;" it also true that the Cuban
region.
what is needed to stop the export of
"construction workers" in Grenada
Nicaragua, unlike the islands of Cuba
Marxist terrorism throughout Central
turned out to be heavily armed troops.
and Grenada, is physically connected to
America.
the American landmass and is an ideal
Congress, by passing the Intelligence
Soviet/Cuban Advisors Turn
starting point for the spread of a Marxist
Authorization bill, cleared the way for
"revolution without borders."
providing $19 million in continued military
Nicaragua Into Arms Depot
assistance through the first six months of
the fiscal year 1984 to the pro-American
Moreover, these "advisors" in Nicara-
USDC Backs Aid for Contra
Contra Freedom Fighters in Nicaragua.
gua have brought with them large amounts
Freedom Fighters
Most experts agree, however, that the
of military hardware, including 100 Soviet
Contra Freedom Fighters will need at least
tanks, 1,000 East German trucks, 100
The United States Defense Commit-
thirty-five to fifty million dollars per year to
anti-aircraft guns and Soviet howitzers
tee and its members played a key role in
effectively fight the Soviet and Cuban
with a range of seventeen miles.
aid for the pro-American Freedom Fighters
supported Marxist dictatorship in
The Soviets have also supplied Nicara-
in Nicaragua.
Nicaragua.
gua with bazookas, large-caliber machine
In the original vote on aid to the Free-
Thus when funds run out in June,
guns, armored personnel carriers, SAM-7
dom Fighters the full House refused to
supplemental Authorization and Appro-
anti-aircraft missiles and 200,000 AK-47
authorize any funds to help the Nicaraguan
assault rifles.
priation bills will have to be passed.
people fight the Marxist dictatorship.
The fact of the matter is that the
The United States Defense Commit-
The Senate, however, thanks to the
United States Defense Committee and
tee and other pro-defense forces are deter-
mined not to let funding run out for the
other pro-defense organizations author-
Freedom Fighters and will be working to
ized $19 million for the first half of 1984.
obtain the needed extra funds for the rest
The key battle in aid for the pro-
of fiscal 1984.
American Contra Freedom Fighters was
in a Conference Committee appointed by
the House and Senate to iron out differ-
Nicaragua is Center of
ences in the Intelligence Authorization bill.
Soviet/Cuban Campaign to
The United States Defense Commit-
Control Central America
tee recognized this and put a strong
effort into getting mass mailings into the
Any cut-off of funds to the Freedom
states of selected swing Senators on the
Fighters by Congress would, of course,
Conference Committee.
have the effect of giving protected status
As a result, the Conference Commit-
to the foreign supported Marxist dictator-
tee came out in 100% agreement with the
ship in Nicaragua, which by the way, in its
Senate version rather than cutting off or
new national anthem calls the United
compromising on funds to the freedom
States "the enemy of mankind."
fighters.
The growing military threat to Central
The most important part of the pro-
America by Nicaragua is demonstrated by
defense victory in approving aid was
the fact that it has increased its army to
played by United States Defense Commit-
over 60,000 men, and has announced
tee members who sent literally hundreds
plans to increase its army and militia forces
and in some cases thousands of cards and
to 250,000 men.
letters to the offices of individual members
Congressmen Robert Lagomarsino (R-CA)
Today, there are over 9,000 Cuban,
of the Conference Committee.
has been active in the fight to expose Soviet/
Soviet and Soviet bloc advisors in Nicara-
Cuban involvement in Nicaragua, pointing out
gua who are building airfields, military
that foreign advisors have turned Nicaragua's
armed forces into the biggest and most menac-
bases and support facilities for an ever
ing war machine ever seen in Central America.
6
Defense Watch
Graham Calls For Immediate Deployment of Missile Defense
High Frontier Strategy Boosted by Findings of
Defense Commission
Advocates of a High Frontier strategy
systems based in the satellite itself.
General Graham's appearances have
of satellite and ground-based anti-missile
In case of Soviet attack, the armed
given the High Frontier strategy national
defense received a shot in the arm, in mid-
satellites would detect the ascent into
exposure, and have drawn attention to the
October when a special commission set up
space of offensive Soviet nuclear missiles
need for the "immediate deployment" of a
by the Defense Department released its
and then launch its own non-nuclear
High Frontier strategy to defend America
findings to President Reagan on how to
missiles to shoot them down.
from Soviet attack.
defend America against a Soviet nuclear
Any Soviet missile that could avoid a
While General Graham and other
attack.
satellite-based defense would be met by
advocates of a High Frontier strategy are
The special commission chaired by
fast firing guns on the ground shooting
pleased with the boost that the special
James Fletcher, a former administrator of
waves of projectiles in the path of any
missile defense commission, headed by
NASA, and officially known as "The
incoming Soviet warhead.
James Fletcher, has given to the concepts
Defense Technology Interdiction Commit-
in the High Frontier strategy, there is con-
tee," was formed in response to President
Defense Commission Boosts
cern nonetheless that the Fletcher Com-
Reagan's speech on March 23rd calling for
mission has fallen short by not pushing
an active missile defense of the United
High Frontier, But Hedges on
hard enough for immediate deployment of
States.
Immediate Deployment
a defensive system against Soviet missiles.
The commission backed-up the find-
ings of Lt. General Daniel O. Graham,
General Daniel O. Graham, President
USA (Ret.) on the feasibility of a missile
of the United States Defense Committee,
Deploying Missile Defense Must
and other defense experts have redoubled
be Special Priority
defense for America, and cited the compo-
nents of a High Frontier strategy including
their efforts on behalf of High Frontier by
continuing to tour the nation during
Earlier, on October 11th, General
satellite-based missile interceptors and
ground-based defenses as readily deploy-
November - making major addresses in
Graham and thirty-two of the top scien-
able in the near future.
New York City, Dallas, and Kansas City,
tists, physicists and aerospace engineers
Lt. General Graham, the United
Missouri.
in the country joined together in an effort
States Defense Committee and other pro-
to fight the Washington syndrome of
continued studies and little action by
defense organizations in Washington,
releasing a 50-page report stating that the
have, of course, strongly advocated the
United States has "both the technical
deployment of a defensive missile system
knowledge and the industrial capability to
for America.
deploy effective defenses" against a Soviet
nuclear attack, and must act right now to
High Frontier Would Protect
deploy a High Frontier type missile defense.
America From Soviet Nuclear
In an effort to cut through bureau-
Attack
cracy the report also went on to state that
"the defense of our nation will require
The High Frontier strategy spear-
direct Presidential action and support"
headed by General Graham is designed to
requiring "a new program office, reporting
protect America's population centers and
directly to the Secretary of Defense and
nuclear deterrent by destroying incoming
organized like the Manhattan project."
Soviet missiles before they can reach
This is, of course, the system that was
American soil.
used to develop the first atomic bomb
The High Frontier program would
during World War II, and in fact, is like the
take advantage of American technological
system used by General Graham, himself,
superiority to end-run the growing Soviet
to build the super advanced SR-71 recon-
threat to America by immediately deploy-
naissance aircraft.
ing a multi-layer non-nuclear ballistic
missile defense system.
Missile Defense Program Must
A web of 432 armed satellites would be
Tom Corcoran (R-IL) is one of fifteen co-
Cut Through Red Tape
placed in orbit constantly circling the globe
sponsors of House Resolution 215 calling for the
with one hundred armed satellites over the
development of a space-based missile defense
to defend America.
The SR-71 developed during the
Soviet Union at any given time.
1960's, and recognized as the most sophis-
Each armed satellite would house 40 to
Corcoran is advocating a High Frontier
strategy as a key issue in his campaign to re-
ticated reconnaissance plane on earth,
45 self-propelled non-nuclear missiles that
place Senator Charles Percy and become
was developed in a Top Secret project
would be targeted by advanced computer
Illinois' new Senator.
High Frontier cont. on pg. 8
7
Defense Watch
"High Frontier" from pg. 7
Defense, advisory groups are coming
deterrent.
using special intelligence funds free of the
together under Presidential direction to
If, on the other hand, the Soviets have
normal bureaucratic and Congressional
study how America can be defended
to take into account the effects of a High
red tape, and was operational in just 2½
against a Soviet first strike.
Frontier type system of satellite-based and
years at one-third of expected cost.
Rather than exposing the American
ground-based defense, the Soviets will be
The development of the SR-71 shows
population and America's land-based
faced with a problem full of uncertainties.
that by placing a special priority on the
nuclear deterrent to Soviet attack, the
The Soviets would not know how
deployment of a High Frontier type de-
United States is now moving toward
many warheads would arrive in the target
fense, the American people can be saved
development of a policy of Assured Sur-
area and even more crucial, which ones
from the usual expensive start-and-stop
vival in a move to frustrate a Soviet first
would-arrive over which targets.
funding imposed by Congress on weapons
strike.
This changes the simple arithmetic
systems and from the bureaucratic
into a complex calculus full of uncertain-
maneuvering in Washington that also
Missile Defense Needed to
ties; such uncertainties are the essence of
push up costs.
Protect American Deterrent
deterrence, and a workable defense for
It is interesting that initial Pentagon
the United States.
estimates for a missile defense came in
costing three times as much as estimates
The strategic importance of moving
immediately to deploy a High Frontier
USDC Members Urged to
given by General Graham and other inde-
pendent experts.
type system of satellite and ground-based
Contact White House
defense is that America's nuclear deter-
Ironically, that is also exactly the same
ratio. saved when the system of program
rent will be effective in deterring a Soviet
Henry L. Walther, Executive Vice
management advocated by General
attack, only as long as it remains safe from
President of the United States Defense
destruction from a Soviet first strike.
Graham was used in the development and
Committee in commenting on America's
production of the SR-71.
The ever-improving ability of the
move toward a missile defense stated that:
Soviet Union to track America's sea-based
Of course, in developing any new
"The United States has come a long way in
weapons project there will be widely vary-
nuclear deterrent and the questionable
less than a year toward the day when
ing disagreements on costs, but there is no
ability of the aging B-52 fleet will pose a
America is defended against a Soviet first
disagreement that any program not
grave strategic, vulnerability for the United
strike.
funded today will cost more tomorrow.
States unless something is done to install
The findings of the Fletcher Commis-
an active missile defense.
sion and the Future Security Strategy
Without a missile defense and the
Study are a start, but they do not succeed
President Reagan Still to Make
implementation of a High Frontier type
in moving fast enough to use existing tech-
Final Decision on High Frontier
system the United States will be a target
nology to put a High Frontier type system
for Soviet nuclear blackmail.
in place.
As Defense Watch goes to press,
Right now, without a High Frontier
President Reagan will recommend to
there has been no official White House
type system of missile defense, Soviet
Congress in January, funding levels for
comment on the results of the Fletcher
military planners using straightforward
research and deployment of anti-missile
Commission, nor the results of another
arithmetic can be quite sure of the results
systems.
defense strategy group advising on Ameri-
of a first strike launched against the
It is of the greatest urgency that mem-
can missile defense known as the Future
United States.
bers of the United States Defense Com-
Security Strategy Study.
By delivering two warheads a piece
mittee move immediately to contact the
Both advisory groups, however, are
against each weapon in America's nuclear
White House, the Defense Department
watersheds in the strategic thinking of the
Triad, including land-based missiles, B-52
and Congress to urge immediate deploy-
United States, because for the first time in
bombers and submarine pens, the Soviet
ment of a High Frontier type system to
over twenty years, since the days when
Union could launch an attack that would
defend America."
Robert McNamara was Secretary of
destroy virtually all of America's nuclear
Editor. John R. Crane
Defense Watch is published by the United States Defense
Committee. 3238 Wynford Drive. Fairfax, Virginia, 22031,
Phone (703) 281-5517.
President
Lt. Gen. Daniel O. Graham USA (Ret.)
Executive Vice-President
Henry L. Walther
Secretary-Treasurer
Louise Tate
Legislative Director
Bradley D. Palmer
Director of Research and Publications
John R. Crane
Defense Watch
8
</
UNITED STATES
DEFENSE COMMITTEE
Lieutenant General
Daniel O. Graham
United States Army, Retired
December 21, 1983
Mr. Morton Blackwell
Spec. Asst. to the President
for Public Liaison
191 Old Executive Office Building
Washington, DC 20500
Dear Morton:
Please find enclosed, as a part of our ongoing exchange
program, the following information.
1) The latest issue of our membership publication,
Defense Watch.
2)
A letter from President Reagan thanking USDC for
our help in developing support in Congress for
the President's programs in Central America and
for the overall Defense Budget.
3)
A letter to the members of the Western Hemisphere
Affairs Subcommittee of Senate Foreign Relations,
urging hearings on documents seized in Grenada.
4)
A package concerning the selection of candidates
to serve on the Presidential Advisory Board for
Radio Marti presented at a meeting of conservative
organizations.
I look forward to our continuing exchange program.
Sincerely,
Henry Walther
Henry L. Walther
Executive Vice President
HLW/tll
3238 Wynford Drive, Fairfax, Virginia 22031
UNITED STATES
DEFENSE COMMITTEE
Lieutenant General
Daniel O. Graham
United States Army, Retired
December 16, 1983
The Honorable Christopher J. Dodd
Senate Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20510
Dear Senator Dodd:
I'm writing you concerning the massive number of documents
seized by U.S. personnel during the rescue mission in Grenada.
As you know, these documents include arms treaties between
Grenada and the Communist governments of the Soviet Union,
Cuba and North Korea.
We are told these documents promise the delivery of
thousands of modern machine guns, mortars, artillery pieces,
armored vehicles, etc. to Grenada.
Also, we're told these documents contain minutes from
meetings of the Grenadian Central Committee of the New Jewel
Movement, propaganda material, and plans of the Grenadian
Revolutionary Military Council.
The information in many of these documents could wipe
away any reasonable doubts of Soviet/Cuban goals in Grenada.
It is also believed that many of the documents expose
plots to undermine the security and stability of the entire
Caribbean Basin.
It is obvious that these documents offer answers to
some important questions the American people are asking.
Yet, so far these documents have received very little
attention.
On behalf of the United States Defense Committee and
its more than 97,000 members, I urge you, as a member of
the Western Hemisphere Affairs Subcommittee of Foreign Relations,
to urge Chairman Helms to hold hearings on the contents of
the Grenadian documents.
These documents, if used properly, can aid in assuring
public knowledge of Soviet expansionist aims.
The American people must be made aware of the extent
of Soviet involvement in Central America, and throughout
the world.
Sincerely,
Hary Watther
Henry L. Walther
Executive Vice President
HLW/peb
UNITED STATES
DEFENSE COMMITTEE
Lieutenant General
Daniel O. Graham
United States Army, Retired
ISSUE:
Presidential Advisory Board for Radio Marti
Director of Radio Marti; Staff of Radio Marti
BACKGROUND: The radio Marti bill passed by Congress (S.
602) calls for an advisory board to be established within
the office of the President and calls for the Director of
USIA to appoint the Director of the Radio Marti Service and
to employ such staff as the Director of the Service may need
to carry out his duties.
Consideration by the White House Personnel Office of
Candidates for the Board is expected to begin in the next
few days, with suggested nominees to the President expected
by Christmas.
Likewise, Charles Z. Wick, head of USIA, is expected
to appoint the Director of Radio Marti by Christmas.
The Director of Radio Marti will report directly to
Charles Z. Wick, as well as serve as an ex-officio member
of the Advisory Board. The legislation is ambiguous as to
whether or not he will report to Ken Tomlinson, Associate
Director for Broadcasting of VOA.
FUNCTIONS: The Board will review the effectiveness of the
activities carried out under the Act and will make recommendations
to the President of the United States, the Director and Associate
Director for Broadcasting of USIA. Again there is some ambiguity
as to whether or not this includes Ken Tomlinson.
SALARY: Board members will receive compensation equal to
the daily equivalent prescribed for level V of the Executive
Schedule (approximately $245 per day) plus a per diem for
travel expenses.
It is expected the Board will meet 3 times a year for
a period of 2 days at a time.
LENGTH OF TERM: The initial Board members will have the
following terms, designated by the President; 3 members
to serve a term of 3 years, 3 members to serve a term of
2 years and 3 members to serve a term of 1 year.
Thereafter the term of each member of the Board will
be 3 years.
BOARD MEMBERS:
There will be 9 members plus one ex officio
member.
The 9 members will be appointed by the President
with the advice and consent of the Senate.
No more than 5 members shall be affiliated with
the same political party.
OFFICERS:
One member of the Board will be designated by
the President to serve as Chairman.
While the names of nominees are not expected to be made
public until early next year, the actual selection process
will begin in the next few days and be completed probably
by Christmas.
That's why it's vital you immediately contact the appropriate
people involved in the selection process.
ACTION REQUESTED:
1) Send resume's of conservative candidates for the
Advisory Board to the following people in the White House:
John Herrington, Director
Presidential Personnel
The White House
Washington, D.C. 20500
or,
Barbara McQuowen, Associate Director
Presidential Personnel
The White House
Washington, D.C. 20500
Barbara is the person in Presidential Personnel directly
responsible for the selection of nominees for the Board.
2) Send letters of recommendation to President Reagan
and any of the following who you think might act positively
to your recommendations:
James Baker, Chief of Staff
Michael Deaver, Deputy Chief of Staff
Edwin Meese, Counselor
Faith Whittlesey, Ass't to the President for
for Public Liaison
3) Send letters of recommendation for conservative
Candidates for the Director of Radio Marti to the following:
Charles Z. Wick, Director
U.S. Information Agency
400 "C" St., S.W., Suite 800
Washington, D.C. 20547
Ken Tomlinson
Associate Director for Broadcasting
Voice of America
330 Independence Ave., S.W.
Washington, D.C. 20547
4) Send resume's for key staff positions on Radio
Marti to:
Carol Cooper
Voice of America
330 Independence Ave., S.W.
Washington, D.C. 20547
Here is a beginning list of Conservative Candidates
for the Advisory Board for Radio Marti.
L. Francis Bouchey
President, Council for Inter-American Security.
Author of 3 books relating to Cuban terrorism
and subversion in the Third World.
if
Traveled extensively throughout Latin America.
Speaks Spanish
Father S. James Schall
Associate Professor, Department of Government,
Georgetown University.
Holds PhD in Political Theory.
Holds Masters Degree in Philosphy and Theology.
Author of several books, articles.
Speaks Spanish.
Dr. Mark Falcoff
Research fellow at American Enterprise Institute.
Staff Assistant to Kissinger Commission on Central
America.
Former Assistant Professor of Latin American
History at University of Oregon.
Speaks Spanish
Dr. Roger Fontaine
Washington Times.
Recently Director of Latin American Affairs
for the National Security Council.
Deeply involved in the formulation of the Radio
Marti proposal.
Former Professor of Latin American Studies at
Middlebury College, Vt.
Speaks Spanish.
Jorge Mas Canosa
Chairman Cuban American National Foundation.
Driving force behind the Radio Marti proposal.
Appointed to first Presidential Commission on
Broadcasting to Cuba.
Member of Republican Senatorial Trust.
Speaks Spanish.
Alicia Casanova
Co-chairman of Dade County Republican Executive
Committee.
Extensive background in both radio and television
broadcasting in Miami.
Treasurer for Hispanics for Economic Recovery
in 1982.
Speaks Spanish.
Tony Costas
Cuban American National Foundation.
Miami Businessman.
Cuban American Public Affairs Council.
Speaks Spanish.
Colonel Sam Dickens, USAF Ret.
Executive Director of New World Dynamics.
Council for Inter-American Security.
33 years active military service.
Has lived in Spanish speaking countries over
20 years.
Speaks Spanish.
Charles Dickens
Executive Director, New World Dynamics.
26 years with CIA.
Author of articles on Foreign Policy.
Lived and served in Latin America for 30 years.
Speaks Spanish.
Frederick Dickens
Former U.S. diplomat at various posts in South
America.
Former Director of Brazilian Affairs at USIA.
Has studied and lectured extensively on Latin
American subjects.
25 years of active duty in the U.S. Foreign
Service.
Speaks Spanish.
Father Enrique Rueda
Still waiting on further information.
Among some of the names to support for key staff positions
on Radio Marti are:
Tomas Regalado
News Director of major Latin Radio Station in
Miami, Florida.
Extensive Background in Broadcasting.
Speaks Spanish.
Ariel Ramos
Cuban born Journalist associated with Diario
Las Americas.
Speaks Spanish.
Anna O'Brien
Long time Conservative activist.
Reagan Appointee in Department of Interior.
Speaks Spanish.
Any other suggestions would be welcome by the
United States Defense Committee so that we can send
letters of recommendation on their behalf, also.
Please contact:
Brad Palmer
United States Defense Committee
450 Maple Ave., E. Suite 204
Vienna, Virginia 22180
(703) 281-5517
Hints on Endorsement Letters
In talking to White House Staff, they pointed out that when
writing endorsement letters a simple endorsement is okay
but if possible one should stress the qualifications of ones
candidate.
In the case of the Radio Marti Board, here is a partial
list of qualifications that you should look for in candidates
and which you might want to emphasize in your letters of
endorsement.
1)
Background - both educational and occupational in Latin
America Affairs.
2)
Background in Broadcasting and/or Journalism.
3)
Background in U.S. politics.
a)
Reagan supporter.
b)
Conservative Democrat or Republican.
4)
Author of any literature on the subject.
5)
Speaks Spanish.
6)
Background in Business.
7)
Well thought of among the Cuban community in America.