◆ SpookStack

United States; and, moreover, direction of a tactical air force was going to be added to the responsibilities of DPD. By July 1960, it appeared that tactical air operations with combat aircraft would playa major role in JMATE plans, and discussion over the most suitable combat aircraft -- Douglas ADS's of USN vintage or Douglas B-26's from USAF inventory -- were becoming the subject of considerable controversy between DPD and WH/4. ~ To meet the growing need for air support, the Acting Chief, DPD, Colonel Stanley Beerli (USAF) prepared a memorandum for his Branch Chiefs, noting among other items that: 1. As the planning for JMARC is pro- gressing rapidly, it is quite imperative that all facets are considered and further, that all Branches of DPD, as well as other Agency elements involved, know exactly for what DPD considers itself responsible. In this way, I will be assured that no important item is overlooked because·of confusion over who or what element was responsible. 2. Because of the importance of J~~RC to our national objectives, I am hereby assigning it first priority over all other projects and programs presently assigned. I further expect that all Branches will give prompt and full attention to what is required and will insure that an ade- quate number of the best people are made available. Because of the heavy workload and tight time schedule, I also expect that, at times, longer than normal work hours will be required. - 6 -