February 13, 1955

1955: The Killian Report from the Technological Capabilities Panel of the Science Advisory Committee, Office of Defense Management, recommended assigning the highest national priority to the ballistic missile program. It also urged the simultaneous development of intermediate-range ballistic missiles.
FROM THE REPORT:
“The National Security Council formally recognize the present Air Force program for the development of an intercontinental ballistic missile as a nationally supported effort of highest priority.”
James Killian (above) held several technology-related posts. He was Head, Technological Capabilities Panel, Science Advisory Committee, Office of Defense Mobilization; Chairman, President’s Board on Foreign Intelligence Activities; and Special Assistant to President Eisenhower for Science and Technology.