TENE es See oN AgPON oe . 407739 5 June 1958 Dear Mr. President: Sie et Katt OM, 0 t seo, Pive years azo you a It is bard for me to write this letter. named we Chairman of the Atomic Energy Cozmission for a term which will expire on June 30th next. These five years have been marked by isportant discoveries, historic decisions and ffreat technical advances in many areas of atonic energy develop- nent. In spite of the cccupational hazards of political life, I look back upon these years and what has been accomplished with & measure of contentment. ; : : ‘ i It was a most gratifying experience for me to have you express your desire to reappoint me. However, for the reasons which I tet before you sozetine sgo, I then believed and continus to believe that circumstances beyond the control of either of us make a change in the chairwanshis of the Commission advisable. Therefore I sincerely hope that you will understand my decision, I have bad the privilege of serving our Country in various capa- cities since 1917 and I am glad of the years thus spent. The challenges and the occasional accomplishments have been rewarding. Bapecially, I aw grateful for the confidence, support and friendship you have given me. I have enjoyed the ccmpeniosaship of my colleagues on the Commission and the coopsration af the coupetent and devoted staff in Washington and across the United Staton. Under your leadership, great strides have been made in the whole | atomic energy prograzm in electrical energy, medicine, agriculture, industry, international cooperation, and basic science. While adding to our defensive strength with atomic weapons ve have been able at the same time, by your inspiration, to convert the Atom from a symbol solely of unrelieved fear to a great irstramentality for Peace. The revembrance of such part as I have been able to take in those events will be a continuing source of satisfaction to me and a reminder of my gratitude to you as a menter of your Administration and as a citizen. Respectfully, lLcunS The Presiddnt The White House fas Ct etic tte b 4 , pw (the! Se oO / in SAU SS ? 4 sbtinte ini * caine sine Matas dice tool . 2 - 7 as : an . PEST COPY AVAILABLE - a mEPeSiTORY-ektene ier) J ni hin COLLECTION tA Abo Cnal Fichia pagel BOXNo 223 FOLDER fol L25¥ (2)