Presidential thanks: A photo essay at the CIA
By Loren Blinde
February 3, 2014
Since the CIA was chartered under President Harry Truman, every sitting president has written a brief note of thanks to the men and women of the Agency for their service.
These notes are on display at CIA Headquarters. The Agency has posted on its Web site a photo essay that highlights each portrait and the special message written from the CIA’s #1 customer to the Agency’s workforce.
Here are the texts from those presidential notes:
President Barack Obama
“To the Central Intelligence Agency: Thanks for your extraordinary dedication and service to our country.”
President George W. Bush
“To the men and women of the CIA — Our nation is stronger and safer thanks to your dedication and hard work.”
President Bill Clinton
“To the Central Intelligence Agency with respect and appreciation for the work you do for the United States.”
President George Bush
“To the CIA, an indispensable Agency — especially to the men and women who serve with such dedication & distinction.”
President Ronald Reagan
“With appreciation & Very Best Wishes.”
President Jimmy Carter
“I am impressed with the professionalism and responsiveness of the CIA. I think if all Americans knew what I know, there would be an alleviation of concern.”
President Gerald Ford
“To the Central Intelligence Agency — in peace there is no substitute for intelligence.”
President Richard M. Nixon
“To the Central Intelligence Agency, a vital aid in the defense of freedom.”
President Lyndon B. Johnson
“To the Central Intelligence Agency — with appreciation.”
President John F. Kennedy
“For the Central Intelligence Agency — with esteem.”
President Dwight Eisenhower
“For: The Central Intelligence Agency — an indispensable organization to our country.”
President Harry S. Truman
“To the Central Intelligence Agency, a necessity to the President of the United States, from one who knows.”
