TLS signed “Ike E.,” one page, 7.25 x 10.5, personal letterhead, May 17, 1965. Letter to Sigurd Larmon, one of a nine member committee chosen by Eisenhower in 1953 to serve on the Advisory Commission for United States Information Agency (USIA). In part, “I find nothing in your letter to quarrel with but I do hope you will keep in mind one thought that I have several times expressed to you. This is that in addition to the overt work done by the USIA there is a great deal to be done in supporting a great many native information facilities without betraying the American connection with it. The older I grow the greater value I place on ‘morale,’ with particular emphasis on the militant desire of every under-developed nation (by which I mean its population) to be free and independent and to live under a government of their own choosing. If they have such desires then they would work to achieve their aspirations. These are the kind of people we want to help and should be helping.” Larmon served as president of the advertising firm of Young and Rubicam, Inc. and was Vice Chairman of Citizens for Eisenhower and, in this capacity worked in press and public relations in the 1952 and 1956 presidential campaigns. Young and Rubicam directed the public relations effort in both campaigns. Larmon was one of a nine-member committee chosen by Eisenhower in 1953 to help perfect the country’s psychological warfare program. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope and a carbon of the letter sent to Eisenhower a week earlier. In fine condition, with two horizontal mailing folds, one affecting top of signature, and a couple minor creases. COA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
