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MEMORANDUM FOR: The InspeCtor General

467

SUBJECT

Possible-misinterpretation of training activity based on recent media developments.

1. Recent nedia coverage of Agency testing of chemical substances on individuals brings to mind one incident which, as a result of the press. exposure, might prompt a misinterpretation of a one-time Agency training program. It is reported here so that you will have it in file should the guestion be raised.

2. Over a period of five years or so, the writer headed a team of "indoctrinators" used in the "Enduring Eneny Detention training program for "sheep-dipped" personnel assigned to OSA. The program was under the supervision of the Psychological Services Staff/oys. During the conduct of the program, it was not unusual for a trainee to experience hallucinations,.and in fact they had been pre-briefed on the possibility and given guidance on how to handle the situation--which several did most effectively-

3. One student, nane not recalled bút available in the writer' reports of the exercises hopefully still maintained somewhere in the Office of Security, during an exercise experienced hallucinations and had difficulty with handling the situation, in fact was near hysteria. In an in-situation discussion with him to assist hin in confrontirg the situation, he broke out of the problem by stating that he believed he was being held in the basement of a mental hospital in Virginia and that a hallucinagenic gas was being pumped into the room through the air conditioner., He could not be dissuaded of the belief, even when it was pointed out that others in the room were not so effected. In fact, he wondered aloud how we were able to filter out the gas. Of course, there was no gas, no drugs .no chemical substance. However, on the presumption the student is no longer assigned to the Agency, this incident should be documenteć for reference should he ever come forward with his misunderstanding of what actually transpired.

4. Also for the record only: The writer served as a volunteer for an OMs "pill-taking" experiment, as one in'a group of 20 or 30 I recall. Later I learned that the pills I had been given were plar bos, and that I was in the control group, rather than the group give the substance. I did not know this in advance, of course, and participated out. of trust for the OMs official conducting the test.

INSPIRGENERAL 75-2624

14 July 1975