Address and Q&A, Porcupine Club

D89113

Address and Q&A, Porcupine Club

English

USA

DC-Cam, D89113, 19/08/2025

Computer- typing(tx) 25 pages

Frank Carlucci

In a September 1978 address, Frank Carlucci spoke about the mission and challenges facing the CIA. He began by highlighting the intelligence failure at Pearl Harbor, which led to the creation of the OSS, the predecessor to the CIA. He emphasized that the CIA's core mission is to collect, analyze, and provide objective foreign intelligence to policymakers without creating policy itself.

Carlucci stated that modern intelligence is far more complex than in the past, requiring a worldwide, integrated approach to analyze global issues like nonproliferation, narcotics, and terrorism. He also discussed the balance between accountability and secrecy, citing concerns about protecting sources and methods, which he believes are the core of intelligence operations. He critiqued the Freedom of Information Act and the lack of laws to protect national security secrets, citing instances where former employees could reveal classified information without penalty. He also expressed frustration with congressional oversight that can make covert actions ineffective by requiring briefings to too many people.





Carlucci concluded by expressing optimism about the future, noting increased congressional support and the high caliber of CIA applicants. He urged the public to see the CIA as an organization of dedicated professionals working to safeguard the national interest.

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