RACING FOR THF MOON -j\ 



The Sisk resolution called for immediate approval of the transfer, 

 rather than waiting the customary 60 days allowed under statutory 

 reorganization procedures. 



During the formal hearing by the committee on the von Braun 

 team transfer, NASA commended the committee for its support of the 

 manner in which the transfer was being arranged. "NASA at this point 

 is confident that the plans are realistic and that, with the support of 

 this committee and the Congress, the proposed transfer can be accom- 

 plished in a manner which will greatly strengthen this Nation's space 

 program, both civilian and military," Albert Siepert of NASA told the 

 committee. Siepert added that early passage of the resolution would 

 smooth the transfer and remove employment uncertainties at 

 Huntsville. 



In presenting his resolution to the House of Representatives on 

 February 8, I960, Representative Sisk noted that: 



This joint resolution expresses the intent of the Congress that the von Braun 

 team will remain essentially intact, and that our programs for space science and 

 exploration will thereby be materially expedited and advanced. 



The major opposition to the resolution came on military grounds 

 and was expressed by Representative Sam Stratton (Democrat of New 

 York) of the House Armed Services Committee. Stratton urged the 

 House to disapprove the resolution because — 



I find it difficult to see why the program of an agency that has already demon- 

 strated its ability to get the job done should be switched to an agency which in my 

 judgment has not yet demonstrated its ability successfully to manage a program so 

 vital to our national security. 



House Majority Leader John McCormack indicated that "Congress 

 is showing leadership in accelerating the approval of this transfer." 

 Republican support was voiced by Representative R. Walter Riehlman 

 (Republican of New York), who stated: 



Dr. von Braun and Secretary Brucker, both of whom appeared before the com- 

 mittee to discuss this matter, left no doubt in the minds of the members that it was 

 entirely satisfactory to them that this transfer be made. They were both in favor of 

 this resolution being passed immediately because of the psychological effect this will 

 have on the von Braun team. 



When Representative Stratton demanded a "division" on the 

 adoption of the Sisk resolution, there was an overwhelmingly favorable- 

 vote of 92 to 2. 



The Senate later held hearings on the joint resolution, but because 

 of a civil rights filibuster, no action was taken prior to the effective 

 date of the transfer on July 1, 1960. Nevertheless, the huge majority 

 by which the House supported the resolution gave the Committee on 

 Science and Astronautics the chance to reaffirm its support of von 



