Neon Azimuth - No 02

Magazine Overview

Title: NEON AZIMUTH
Issue: #2
Date: July 17, 1994
Focus: U.S. government and military documents.

Accessing Government and Military Documents

This issue of NEON AZIMUTH, originating from the Radio Free Michigan archives, focuses on how and where to find U.S. government and military documents. The author, who claims to have reviewed thousands of pages of documents, emphasizes that these "leaks" reveal much about U.S. military operations. The primary methods for obtaining documents discussed are through depository libraries, direct purchase, or the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).

Depository Libraries

The author recommends starting searches at federal documents depository libraries, typically located within large university libraries. Examples given include the University of Nevada at Las Vegas (UNLV) and San Diego State University. These libraries house not only federal documents but also state and local government documents. It is noted that some documents exist only on microfiche. Government documents are cataloged using an alphabetical system distinct from the Library of Congress system, with categories like 'D' for the Department of Defense, 'E' for the Department of Energy, 'PrEx' for the Office of the President (including the CIA), and 'Y' for Congressional documents. The author advises consulting reference librarians for assistance and browsing the stacks, which often have charts detailing cataloging numbers.

Online Resources

Resources are also available on the Internet. An electronic catalog of documents produced by the Government Printing Office (GPO) is provided by the Colorado Alliance of Research Libraries (CARL). Users can access this catalog by telnetting to pac.carl.org (IP address 192.54.81.18) or carl.lib.asu.edu (IP address 129.219.10.8), logging in as 'carl' with vt100 terminal emulation. Another resource mentioned is the mailing list GOVDOC-L, accessible via [email protected], which is read by librarians and can provide information on accessing government documents.

Purchasing Documents

The two main sources for purchasing documents are the U.S. Government Printing Office (GPO) and the National Technical Information Service (NTIS), part of the Department of Commerce. GPO offers thousands of documents, while NTIS holds millions, often printing from microfiche. Both sell by mail order. The Superintendent of Documents at GPO issues the Monthly Catalog ("MoCat") and offers Subject Bibliographies. GPO also operates bookstores in large cities. Finding materials through NTIS can be more difficult, but the results are worthwhile, with examples including an Air Force technical report on EMP generators and NASA design documents for hypersonic reconnaissance aircraft. Commercial database providers like BRS and DIALOG can be used to locate NTIS items. NTIS also provides online access and gateway access to government bulletin boards via Fedworld (telnet to fedworld.gov or dial-up at (703) 321-8020).

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)

FOIA allows individuals to request documents directly from government agencies, including classified materials. The author stresses the importance of legal research for effective use of FOIA. The issue explains the background of FOIA, including its passage in 1966 and amendments in 1974, alongside the Privacy Act. It details how Executive Order 12356 (issued by President Reagan) attempted to control "national security information," contrasting it with President Carter's "balancing" test. The article advises reading appropriate sections of the Code of Federal Regulations (C.F.R.), particularly Title 32 for military components, before filing requests. The key to a successful FOIA request is specifying enough information to locate the records. The process involves filing a request, potential administrative appeals, and possibly legal suits. The article warns that classified information may be denied under 5 U.S.C. 552(b)(1). It suggests that for appeals, one should look for procedural violations or prior court cases. A mandatory declassification review request can be filed by U.S. citizens or permanent resident aliens.

Additional resources for FOIA include a book by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) called "Your Right to Government Information" and the "Freedom of Information Act Guide and Privacy Act Overview" available from the U.S. Government Printing Office. Anonymous FTP access to files on military secrecy is available via ftp.shell.portal.com in the /pub/trader directory.

A sample FOIA request letter is provided, outlining the necessary components and information to include, such as specifying the requested documents, citing relevant C.F.R. sections, and stating a public interest reason for fee waivers.

FOIA Office Addresses and C.F.R. Sections

The issue lists partial addresses for FOIA offices within the Department of Defense (DOD), including the Air Force, Army, DISA, DIA, DMA, Defense Nuclear Agency, OASD(PA), Marine Corps, NRO, NSA, and Navy, along with their applicable C.F.R. sections. It also lists FOIA offices outside the DOD, such as the CIA, and the Department of Energy (DOE), noting specific regulations and exemptions applicable to these agencies.

About Project NEON AZIMUTH

Paul McGinnis, the creator of NEON AZIMUTH, explains that the project's goal is to provide information on "sources and methods" for learning about secret U.S. military programs. He believes American taxpayers have a right to know where their money is being spent and that this information can help locate such programs. Subscription requests and comments can be sent via email to [email protected] or by postal mail to Paul McGinnis in Santa Ana, CA. Back issues of NEON AZIMUTH are available via FTP from ftp.shell.portal.com.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme is the accessibility of government and military information, with a strong emphasis on empowering individuals to obtain this information through various channels like libraries, purchasing, and FOIA. The editorial stance is one of advocating for transparency and public access to information, particularly concerning military programs and government spending, as evidenced by the project's name and stated purpose. The author positions themselves as an advocate for the public's right to know.