APPENDIX "c" DRAFT LETTER TO THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE 1. We have studied Mr. Quarles! letter of February 7, 1958, concerning the Department's proposal for an observer program for HARDTACK. Our comments are as follows, 2. We agree that the planned observer program for HARDTACK should be reduced over that of REDWING, Experience in REDWING indicated that a lesser number of high officials concerned with the program could make the trip than had been planned. therefore, we accept that Tentatively, planning for the HARDTACK program be on the basis of 75 official observers with a division of 45 to the Department of Defense and 30 to the Atomic Energy Commission, However, it 1s necessary and is our intent to invite the high governmental, AEC and contractor officials concerned with the program and named, on the attached list. This listing resembles quite closely the invitation list for REDWING, Should acceptances exceed 30 we would expect that arrangements be made to transport and accommodate the additional required, 3. It is necessary, of course, that we transmit our avitations immediately if we are to receive early information as to those who will attend. To do this it 1s necessary that we give a tentative timing for observer trips - both date of departure and duration, The Director of Military Application has coordinated with the Commander, JTF-7 and with General Loper to agree on information to be given in this regard. Invitations will state that present plans contemplate observer trips leaving the United States in mid-April, late April, mid-May and early June. In connection with the time in the Proving Ground, we belleve it unrealistic to promise observers that they will remain ~9- Appendix /c"