Description:

Dwight Eisenhower
Washington, DC, May 14, 1958
Dwight Eisenhower TLS as President on Modernizing the Department of Defense, Interesting Lengthy Letter
TLS

Dwight D. Eisenhower (1890-1969) typed letter signed "D.E." to lower center. 2pp, measuring 7" x 10", Washington, DC, May 14, 1958. Expected mailing folds. Staple holes to upper left corners. Light age toning to edges, else fine condition!

Highlights:

"He suggested that present operations within the Department of Defense are similar to a corporate operation that would permit each important subordinate to report separately and independently to the Board of Directors, bypassing the Chief Executive entirely."

"All of us know that the competition faced by the Defense Department is the sternest in the world, that provided by the military might of the Soviet Union."

"I believe that, in similar manner, the Secretary of Defense must, under broad policies prescribed by the Congress, make sure that the Defense establishment operates under single direction, is responsive to changing needs, and is in addition economically administered."

In 1958, President Dwight D. Eisenhower took major steps to modernize and reorganize the Department of Defense in response to Cold War pressures and the Soviet Union's technological advances, particularly after the launch of Sputnik. He emphasized a defense strategy known as the "New Look," which focused on strategic nuclear deterrence rather than large conventional forces, leading to increased investment in ballistic missiles like ICBMs and IRBMs. To maintain U.S. technological superiority, he created the Advanced Research Projects Agency, to fund cutting-edge military research. That same year, Eisenhower signed the Defense Reorganization Act of 1958, which strengthened the authority of the Secretary of Defense, improved coordination among the military branches, and enhanced the role of joint military operations. While expanding missile and nuclear programs, Eisenhower remained committed to controlling defense spending, reflecting his belief that a strong national defense should be balanced with economic responsibility.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

Possibly secretarial and certainly a controversial signature, we are confident in its authenticity.

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  • Dimensions: 7" x 10"
  • Medium: TLS

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