Note that projected budget estimates for FY-61 sent to Headquarters JTF-7 in

the spring of 1960,indicate that Task Group 7.3 still requires money for operations
oe

cme

in FY 61 and here is a letter dated 24 Feb. 1960 from the Commander of Task Group
‘me

7.3 (signed by T.M. Blockwick, acting Chief of Staff) which states, "The primary JID
mission of Task Group 7.3 in support of JIF-7 operations includes the precise
positioning of target ships as well as mooring, ship salvage and diving operations.
To maintain this and other capabilities required for the successful accomplishment
of tasks assigned during overseas atomic tests, it is essential that a continuing
training program be pursued.

This is particularly important in view of the high

degree of readiness required in the minimum length of time which might be expected
for a build up and preparation."

Other correspondence indicates that a D.M. Tryee

may be the Commander and that the Task Group is headquartered in Washington, D.C.
The budget is quite modest requesting $36,500 for FY 1960.

Here is a piece of correspondence in the Secretary's files which may not
be documented elsewhere and which is important enough to note.

It is to

the Chairman of the Commission on 24 February 60 from Kistiakowsky NY
who was then the Pr esidents! Scientific Advisor and it says:" The

|

President has asked me to inform you and Secretary Gates that he considers
a vigorous and continuing research and development program on the
detection of underground and high altitude explosions to be a matter of high
priority and that he hopes the DOD and the AEC will find it possible to
finance this program for FY 61 within their existing budgets. I am forwarding

—,

a copy of this letter to Secretary Herter. "'

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