Reading Room Document

Assistance to Civil Authorities in the Washington Metropolitan Area

The document contains a series of communications and proposed orders regarding the use of federal troops and the National Guard in the event of civil disturbances in the District of Columbia. The Attorney General and the Secretary of Defense agree that local law enforcement officials have primary responsibility for maintaining law and order, with federal assistance as requested. The proposed proclamation and Executive order are for use in dealing with an outbreak of civil disorder in the District that is beyond the capacity of local police forces to bring promptly under control. The document also outlines the procedures for the use of military forces, the coordination of activities between federal and local agencies, and the criteria for the withdrawal of military forces. The questions presented for review include the legal grounds for using military force, the coordination of activities between federal and local agencies, and the criteria for the withdrawal of military forces.

November 12, 1969