"So Help Me God"

As the Atomic Energy Commission got ready to take formal possession of the Army's Manhattan District on New Year's Day, Washington heard a story which well indicates the mood of the Gods of the Atomic Mountain.

When the commission met Nov. 13 for its lead-off inspection at the Oak Ridge plant, Chairman David Lilienthal did not quite know how to begin the proceedings. Finally, with determined offhandedness, he said: "Well, I guess we might as well start."

Solemnly & silently the commissioners looked at each other. Then Chairman Lilienthal cleared his throat and spoke the thoughts of all five commission members: "I have taken the oath of office several times before in my. life, but the last four words never had the meaning to me they have today. So I'd just like to begin by repeating them--'So help me God.' "

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