These notes were originally started more as an “aide memoire” –and as a matter of possible future interest have obviously become necessary as a protection against changes in orders and directives. Changes in plans are of course always necessary when the period for their execution extends over a decade, and their details include all the activities, agencies and requirements of a national army. Changes are not bad in themselves, but when there is met a flat denial that the original plan ever existed it is best to keep in written form, some record of the principal features of the orders and directives a subordinate is following in his daily work. It is a terrible way in which to work –and feeling that it is necessary to observe such a practice carries an implication that “Someone is crazy.” Maybe the keeping of notes will reveal whether or not it is I.
Dwight D. Eisenhower
(October 14, 1890 – March 28, 1969). At the time of these entries, serving in the American Military Mission to the Commonwealth of the Philippines (1935-1939) or the war Plans Division (1941-1942).
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