Jan. 23, 1962 - Former President Dwight D. Eisenhower suggested today that leading military men assume a major role in warning the public of the dangers from international communism. General Eisenhower called upon the Special Senate Armed Services Subcommittee, which opened hearings today on charges of civilian censorship of military statements, to disapprove of any effort to thrust the military behind an “American iron curtain.” In a written statement to the Senate panel, he also questioned “the desirability of requiring the topmost Government officials, whether military or civilian, to submit their proposed public statements for what amounts to censorship of content — as distinguished from security matters.” The former President said he was aware that the clearance practice was in effect during his Administration and in those of his predecessors. He said, however, that upon “thoughtful reassessment” he inclined to the view that it was unjustified.
