Dear
Bea:1 It was good to have word from you and to see the letter from the Tank Corps Association.2 They seem to be a very active group, and I am sure that the memory of George and his legacy of combat leadership will be a lasting inspiration to the membership.3
I do hope that, since the time you wrote, our position on the Defense program has been made more clear to all. I assure you that the proposed budget is a long way from "giving the Armed Services a death blow."4 With new money and unspent appropriations, the Services are going to have available in the 1954 fiscal year approximately 99 billion dollars. To me, this is a tremendous figure, and it does not include the great sums we are spending on the atomic program or on the extensive military assistance in tanks, jet aircraft, and all kinds of equipment for our allies.
We are going to force some economies on the Services, but I feel that we absolutely must do so in order to survive for the long pull. Moreover, I feel that they are justified, not only from the standpoint of efficient management, but considering also the fundamental need for strength and viability in our economy.5
With respect to "telling the truth to Congress in 1946"--someday I'll try to find, and send to you, the record of talks I made to Senators and Congressmen, beginning at that time. I gave many solemn warnings against deterioration of our defenses, and kept up the same kind of talk after I left the Service in February 1948. Because of one of these warnings, I was called back from Columbia University to testify before a Senate Committee. It did little good.6
Again, thanks for your thoughtful letter. Mamie joins in kindest personal regard and every good wish to you and yours. Sincerely
