Page  1 EPRODUCED AT THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES DECLASSIFIED Authority 4ro 01023 By NARA Da(-;o4I2to7

Page  2 EPRODUCED AT THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES DECLASSIFIED DECLASSIFIED Authority _ 001023 By 1u NARA Date 0tol07.. OiR. niReport CONFIDENTIAL 111-74898; DETAILS: (Continued) 3. OFFICE CHECK: (Continued) Mrs. Margaret Gasper, Computer, Ballistic Research Laboratory, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md. (S) (Memo C) Dr. John L. Kelley, Mathemetician, Ballistic Research Laboratory, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md. (S) (Memo D) 4. ADDRESSES: 1 April 1943 - Present: Civilian Dormotory, Building No0 5, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md. (Memo A) (Verified) Jan0 1937 - 1 April 1943: 508 Belair Ave., Aberdeen, Md. (home of Dr. L. S. Dederick) (Memo A) (Verified) 5. RESID }CE CHECK: (Due to the fact that SUBJECT would be immediately informed about any investigation conducted in the Civilian Dormitory or in the vicinity of Dr. L. S. Dederick's home, it was not thought advisable to conduct such investigation at this time.) 6. POLICE RECORD: Files of the Intelligence Office, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md. were checked on 20 November 1943 re SUBJECT. (R) (Memo E, Exhibits I thru VII') Files of the Provost Marshal, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md. checked on 24 November 1943 re SUBJECT (NR) Files of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Baltimore, Md. "g were checked on 15 November o94 Dre SUBJECT. (Memo E, Exhibit VI) Files ofthe Director, Intelligence Division, Third Service Command, Baltimore, Md. were checked on. Nomr194 re SUBJECT. (Memo E, Exhibit VI) ADVERSE INF O ATION: 1. According to former professors and fellow students, SUBJECT exhibited Communistic tendencies while a student at the University of Virginia. (MeT E, Exhibits I, II, III, IV, V, VI) U. S. SGOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE 16-80089-1 WAR DEPARTMENT 2 o. c. s., Form o. 19-A CONFIDENTIAL

Page  3 1 O S 0 1 o.-' N

Page  4 EPRODUCED AT THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES DECLASSIFIED Authority 40~ 007013Q By k, NARA Darc o0100o7 - // '' Report CONFIDENTIAL 111-74898 ADVERSE INFORMATION: (Continued) 12. Hotel manager at Ocean City, Md. states SUBJECT (here listed as VES RENO) was registered at her hotel on 18 July 1943 with his brother, PHIL RENO, who was reported to have been brought to Baltimore, Md. to work for the Cammnunist Party by a Dr. Blumberg. PHIL RENO is also reported to be closely associated with other known Communists who are listed in the files of the Federal Bureau of Investiation, Baltimore, Md. (Memo E; Exhibit VI) UNDEVELOPED LEADS: (A., 4. Director, Intelligence Division, Second Service Command. 1. Miscellaneous: Request check of SUBJECT'S connection with G. E. Stechert & Co., 31 E. 10th St., New York, N. Y. (Requested by letter) Director, IntelligeneDivision, Third Service Comnmand 1. Education: 1939-1940: Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Md. y. 1932-1935: University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Va.; M. A. Degree. 2. Employment: 1932-1935: Instructor at McCormick Observatory, Charloesville, Va.; Dr. Alexander Vysotsky, supervisor. 3. References: Dr. E. J. McShane, Charlottesville, Va. Director, Intelligence Division, Seventh Service Command. 1. Family Data: Mother: Evalyn Moker Reno; born in Spring Valley, Illinois, about 1880; present address - 4428 S. Bannock St., Englewood, Colorado (other addresses - 1503 Spruce St., Boulder, Colorado; Dillon, Color ado). Brother: Philip Reno, 4428 S. Bannock St., Englewood, Colorado. 2. Education: 193961932: University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado; A. B. Degree. 1928-1929: Colorado State College, Fort Collins, Colorado. 1924-1928: Fort Collins High School, Fort Collins, Colorado, U. S. GoVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE 18-30039-1 WAR DEPARTMENT O. C. S., Form No. 19-A 4 s

Page  5 JAL ARHIVESDECLASSIFIED Authority Ut40)O1O1?a By u, NARA D aL-,c)411P0107

Page  6 PRODUJCED A~TTHE NATIONAL ARCHIVES DECLASSIFIED Authority 00103 By kJ NARA Dat 041W.107 0 111-"74898 TJNDBVLELQ lEADtS: (C ont td) A. Co of S., --2, Military District of Washington. 3.F %ployen: l935-w1936: Employed in Washington Memorial Building, Washington, D. C., as a Statistician; salary $140 per month; imediate supervisorMr. W0 Hudson (probably with W.P.A.) 4. Addresses: August 1935-wJune 1937: 2021 "O1 St., N. W., Washington., D. C. 1936: 1220 " ' t., N. W., Wash.ington, Do C. CREI~uBILITY OF WITNES$SS (See Memos) REC OM ENDATI ON: It is recommrended that this case be rmarkd pendi ng subj'ectf to the check of undeveloped leads, 0. C. 8., Form No. 19-A 6

Page  1 ODUCDATT! NAIONA CI V DECLASSIFIED Authority ~0 0070 " By 'K NARA Da04 01J1o7.......... Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md. 23 November 1943 III-74898 MEMORANDUM FOR T HE OFFICER IN CHARGE SUBJECT: RENO, Franklin Victor, Civilian Badge No. 180-064, Ballistic Research Laboratory, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland. (A) Civil Service Records, produced by Mr. George Tomasky, Chief, Civilian Personnel Branch, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md., checked on 20 November 13 in connection with the disaffection investigation of Franklin Victor RENO. Records revealed the following: Personal Data: Name: Franklin Victor Reno. Birth: 14 May 1911; Salt Lake City, Utah. Present Address: Civilian Dormitory, Bldg. #5, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md. Present Age: 32. Marital Status: Single. Family Data: Father: Franklin A. Reno; born in Idaho Falls, Idaho, about 1882; present address - Winsper, Idaho. Mother: Evelyn Moker Reno; born in Spring Valley, Illinois, about 1882; present address - 1503 Spruce St., Boulder, Colorado. Brother: Philip Reno, 1230 New Hampshire Ave., N. W., Washington, D. C. Education: Sept. 1939 - June 1940: Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Md. (Night School). Sept. 193 - June 1935: University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Va.; 3 years; M. A. Degree. DWZNC GADED AT 12 YEAR INTERVALS: NOT AUTOMATICALLY DECLASSIFI D, DOD DIR 5200.10 Page __..... C! t '_V i w 2-- _r a_ II..... A~ Q

Page  2 PRODUCED AT THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES DECLASSIFIED Authority _ _ _ _ _ _ By NARA DatQ - Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md. 23 November 1943 II74898 (A) Continued Education: (Cont d) Sept. 1929 - June 1932: Colorado University, Boulder, Colorado; 2-3/4 years; A. B. Degree. Sept. 1928 - Aug. 1929: Colorado State College, Fort Collins, Colorado; 14 years. -: High school; 4 years (place and dates not given. -: Grammar school; 8 years (place and dates not given. (Also attended the Graduate School, Dept. of Agriculture, Washington, D. C.) Emp loymen t: 16 June 1943 - Present: Mathematician, Ballistic Research Laboratory, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md. ($3800 per annum) 16 Dec. 1941 - 16 June 1943: Associate Mathematician, Ballistic Lab., Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md. ($3200 per annum) 15 May 1940 - 16 Dec. 1941: Asst. Mathematician, Ballistic Lab., Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md. ($2600 per annum) 26 July 1937 - 15 May 1940: Junior Mathemnticians Ballistic Lab., Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md. ($2300 per annum) Sept. 1935- March 1937: Asst. Statistician, Clerk, W.P.A., Washington, D. C. ($1620 per annum) -:: Instructor at Leander McCormick Observatory (dates and place not given, but believed to be at the University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Va.) Addre sses: 1 April 1943 - Present: Civilian Dormitory, Bldg. #5, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md. Jan. 1937 - 1 April 1943: Belair Ave., Aberdeen, Md. (home of Dr. L. S. Dederick) Aug. 1935 - Jan. 1937: 2021 "0" St., N.W., Washington, D. C...Page 2.

Page  3 PRODUCED AT THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES DECLASSIFIED Authority ____0 001_ By __ NARA Dat 42O1O07 Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md. 23 November 1943 III-74898 (A) Continued Addresses: (Cont 'd) Sept. 1932 Aug. 1935: University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Va. June 198 - Aug. 1985: Winsper, Idaho. -: 243 Ridge Ave., Idaho Falls, Idaho. Agent's Note: It should be noted that the information contained in these records was furnished by SUBJECT himself. ELLSWORTH D. SCHWARTZ, Agent, C.C. Page 3.

Page  4 RODUCED AT THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES - DECLASSIFIED Authority __ _0_010_ By 14. NARADa 0412.010 Aberdeen Proving Grou 23 November 1943 III-74898 MEMORANDUM FOR THE OFFICER IN CHARGE: N6 end, Md. SUBJECT: RENO, Franklin Victor, Civilian Badge No. 180-064, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md. (B) Lt. William B. Dickinson, Personnel Officer, Ballistic Research Laboratory, Aberdeen proving Ground, Md., interviewed on 23 November 1943. Informant stated in substance: I have known Franklin Reno for the past five years. I have came in contact with him quite frequently in connection with my work, and I have also attended several social gatherings at which he was present. Reno is the typical, absent-minded mathem tician who eats, sleeps, and lives in a mathematical world. Salary means nothing to him, and he not only works long hours at the Laboratory, but also studies a great deal in his free time. On one occasion I saw him eating dinner in an Aberdeen restaurant. He had a Math book, a bottle of whiskey, and a dinner on the table and was apparently trying to give equal attention-to all three. I have heard that he sometimes "dunks" his cigarette in his coffee and then starts to eat it. At social gatherings, Reno talks quite a bit about the numerous schools he has attended and tells tales of the West. I have never heard him discuss any political or economic theories, and I doubt that he is seriously interested in anything outside of Mathematics. I have no reason whatsoever to doubt his loyalty to the United States. Agent's Note: This informant has been consulted by this Officer and Agent on numerous previous occasions, and his information has always been found to be reliable. as go r"mr E' 1 p RLDBA gage 4*.

Page  5 )CED AT THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES low DECLASSIFIE A to 0010,. -- Authority (.o4110101 By Y1N ARA Da ri?.?::;: - -- - w r.ti.._...,.,. (C) Mrs. Margare Computer and assistan Research Laboratory, A viewed on 23 November Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md. 23 November 1943 III-74898 t Gasper, Civilian Badge No. 180-154, to Mr. Franklin V. RENO, Ballistic berdeen Proving Ground, Md., inter1943. Informant stated in substance: I have been Mr. Franklin Reno's assistant and secretary since I camne to the Ballistic Laboratory some time in June of 1942, and in my eyes he is a genius. He is extremely industrious and works long hours on problems that are far beyond my comprehension. In addition to this, he studies a great deal and frequently requests that I order new Math books for him. The fact that he constantly has his mind on his work has given Mr. Reno the reputation of being absentminded, and I guess he is. I know that he has on occasion forgotten to put on a necktie before coming to work. I have never heard Mr. Reno express any radical views or discuss any foreign political or economic theories. I have no reason to doubt his loyalty to the United States; on the contrary, I believe that he wants America to win the war as quickly as possible. I know that he is quite anxious to facilitate the movement of anything connected with the war effort. Agents' Note: Informant has the reputation of being honest, loyal, and discreet. She is a very intelligent person and has had an excellent opportunity to become acquainted with SUBJECT. This Officer and Agent believe Informant was sincere in her statements. NKLIN. ORDAN, Captain, I., Executie i&Officer, M.I.D. ELLSWORTH D. SCWART! Agent, C.I.C. Page 5. Ilk, 7 Mwo

Page  6 EPRODUCED AT THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES C DECLASSIFIED Authority W4000)021 By V1 NARA Dai 0 411007 Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md. 24 November 1943 III-74898 (D) Dr. John L. Kelley, Mathem tician, Ballistic Research Laboratory, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md., interviewed on 23 November 1943. Informant stated in substance: I have known Franklin Reno since August of 1942, and although he is reputed to have a "hair-trigger" temper he has never displayed it when I was around. Reno's interests seem to center around Astronomy, Physics, and Mathematics. He is very industrious, and is noted for being precise in his measurements. The fact that the bombing tables prepared at Aberdeen Proving Ground are supposed to be the best in the world is, I think, largely due to Reno. He was assigned the task of developing these tables when he first came to work at the Proving Ground. Since Reno has been placed in the computing office, three new mathemqticians have arrived and each of them has been given the same status and salary as that enjoyed by Reno. If Reno harbors any resentment, he has never shown it. In fact he has gone out of his way to help the new men. Reno is rather eccentric, and I have heard numerous stories about incidents that show he is absent-minded. I know that he does not dress as well or as neatly as he should, but I do not believe there is anything wrong with him that a woman could not cure. I have heard that while at the University of Virginia Reno exhibited radical tendencies. If he did, I can readily understand it, for he was getting along on an income of $300 per year at that time and I doubt whether he was eating regularly. I do not believe that Reno even thinks of politics at the present time; he is completely absorbed in his work and seems to be well contented in his present position. I know that I have no reason whatsoever to doubt Reno's loyalty to the United States. Page 6.......;

Page  7 EPRODUCED AT THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES DECLASSIFIED Authority 040O1O13 By NARA Dats 0o41007 NT er Nfi X /r;--" q3 Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md. 24 November 1943 111-74898 (D) Continued Agent's Note: Informant holds a Ph. D. in Mathematics and is at present on leave of absence from the faculty of Notre Dame University. Informant is an extremely intelligent person, and he too is slightly eccentric in appearance and manner. These Agents are of the opinion that Informant was honest and sincere in his statements; that he believes SUBJECT is now basically sound.4 *ill ELLSWORTH D. SCHWARTZ, Agent, C.I.C. HSRR. MENCKtE, S/Sgt., M.I.D. Page 7. j Sig S.: v.+n". y Y Y Z \.' " i 'ti c t c...y st Y S n". i Gr 3 rY

Page  8 FPRODUCFDni I AT TlW TI '. 1-1..... L.- i H 1I Ir 7CN I IUNAL A HVES -r-- DECLASSIFIED Authority 1, 0071023 By k NARA Dair 04110107 \. 7-. Y: f Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md. 23 November 1943 111-74898 MEMORANDUM FOR THE OFFICER IN CHARGE SUBJECT: RENO, Franklin Victor, Civilian Badge No. 180-064, Ballistic Research Laboratory, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md. (E) Military Intelligence Division, Headquarters Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md., files checked on 20 November 1943 in connection with the disaffection investigation of Franklin Victor RENO. Files were found to contain the following listed documents: 1. A copy of a letter dated 9 September 1937 written by C. L. Clark, Lt. Colonel, G.S.C., A. C. of S., G-2, to Lt. Colonel James C. Bardin, M. I. Reserve, P. 0. Box 1051, University of Virginia (a copy of this letter is attached hereto as Exhibit I, Page 1); a copy of Lt. Colonel Bardin's reply to Lt. Colonel Clark, dated 13 September 1937, is attached hereto as Exhibit I, Page 2. 2. A sigsd statement dated 20 July 1942 given by Dr. S. A. Mitchell, Professor of Astronomy at the University of Virginia, to 1st Lt. James H. Crawford, Assistant Intelligence Officer, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md. A copy of this signed statement is attached hereto as Exhibit II. 3. A memorandum for the Chief of Staff from Lt. Colonel C. L. Clark, A. C. of S., G-2, dated 5 August 1937.' Copy of this memorandum is attached hereto as Exhibit III. 4. A report of Lt. R. G. Butler, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md., to the Office of A. C. of S., G-2, dated 6 August 1937; a copy of this report is attached hereto as Exhibit IV. 5. A report of Lt. Colonel Clark's interview with Pvt. William S. Holloway, Air Corps, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md., dated 6 August 1937; a copy of this report is attached hereto as Exhibit V. 6. Copy of a report from the Baltimore Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation dated 1 November 1943; a copy of tht report is attached hereto as Exhibit VI. Page 8. -zzuzz:

Page  9 EPRODUCED AT THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES DECLASSIFIED Authority 40'~007013. By kJ NARA Dar o04100o7 Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md. 23 November 1943 III-74898 L' (E) Continued 7. A copy of a letter report dated 23 September 1939 from William R. Woodward, Lt. Colonel, I.G.D., to the A. C. of S., G-2, Third Corps Area, Baltimore, Md. A copy of this letter report is attached hereto as Exhibit VII. 8. A copy of the mail cover of SUBJECT conducted from 17 June 1942 to 24 July 1942. A copy of thismail cover report is attached hereto as Exhibit VIII. Agent's Note: It should be noted that the documents listed here consitute the report of a previous investigation of SUBJECT. It should be further noted that all of the adverse information on SUBJECT listed in this case report was taken from these documents. ELLSWORTH D. SCHWARTZ, Agent, C.I.C.:...- a.. - t2: 2, 1.0 '-.:S fib; Yr: t z x,,v b: k Page 9.

Page  1 PRODUCED AT THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES DECLASSIFIED Authority 40007012 By k NARA Da,- 0o 41P07.' d:',:; r i y t R..... t y:.. a:!, Vii. ),,, "v.. c..,,,_. f,,, '->-~ ' y Py SY/rel-2 Dec 43 September 9, 1937 Lieut. Colonel James C. Bardin, MI-Res., P. 0. Box 1051 University, Virginia Dear Colonel Bardin: This office has been asked to investigate the personal habits and reputation of Mr. Franklin B. Reno who is now employed in a very confidential posi* tion in the research office at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Knowing of your previous correspondence with Colonel Pegra m, I am taking the liberty of asking you for any information you may have of him. Thanking you for this assistance, I am, Yours sincerely, /s/ C. L. Clark C. L. CLARK, Lt. Colonel, G. S. C., A. C. of S. G-2. F P, ~'uIj L SE N4 REGRADED UNCLASSII AND MARKED FOR OFFICIAL USE ON L AUT09. JAR'38I34 D~ATA 0 9. 7.'63 42 EXHIBIT I Page 1 Y mom

Page  2 PRODUCED AT THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES DECLASSIFIED Authority A1D 01"3 By u NARA Datc 0 O 0",rel-2 Dec 43 Mulberry Hill Cismont, Va. 13 September 1937 My dear Col. Clarke: The man about whom you wrote me left the University i 1936, after taking a Masters Degree in Astronomy. While here, he was one of our most objectionable radicals, being active in the N.S.L., especially. His specialty was lurking behind posts and hitting students over the head with anything handy, whenever there was a row between the NSL and the conservative student body which happened now and then, While here, this man had no friends except among the extremest radicals- numbering about 20 students. The opinion of the rest of the community was that he was a "very lousy bolshevick," In my opinion, if he is now in a position to obtain confidential or secret information, he is a more than probably danger, and would bear a thorough-going investigation. I can not imagine a Master of Arts in Astronomy enlisting in the Ordnance Corps for any good purpose. And if he also continued to be a rabid and treacherous a "red" as he was while he was here, he is probably passing along whatever he picks up. If I can get more definite information, I shall send it in at once, It may prove difficult, as most of those who knew him have by now left the University. I'll do my best. Incidentally - I find that I was remiss enough to neglect to thank you for telling me about the credit granted me for the translations for the Cavalry School. Trusting that the above information and opinions will be useful, I am., Sincerely, DOWNGRADED AT 12 YEAR INThVAtS/ James C, Bardin LNOT AUTOMATICALLY DECLASSIFID, DOD DIR 5200.10 EXHIBIT I Page 2 Rip.

Page  1 EPRODUCED AT THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES DECLASSIFIED Authority 0t4000101 By - NARA Dai 0r;107 /rel- 2 Dec 43 Charlotteville, Va. 7/20/42 I am Dr. S. A. Mitchell, professor of Astronomy at the U. of Va. In 1932 one Franklin Victor Reno came to the University as a graduate student in Astronomy on a Vanderbilt Fellowship. He was studying for his master's degree and finally obtained it after 3 years. The ordinary course of time for obtaining a master's degree under a fellowship is 2 years, but it took him 3 years as he was a poor and indifferent student and unable to think out his problems clearly. He is a muddled thinker and could never get to the root of a problem. His attitude and his personality, coupled with his muddle-headed quarters caused him to be disliked by the entire observatory staff. He lived and studied in the Observatory building and as the staff was only about five, I had close daily contact with him. In the University about the time Reno was here, was a group known as the National Students League, who called themselves communists and "reds" and who generally created agitation on the campus,.The leaders were Palmer Weber and a boy named Franklin. During his last year here Reno joined this group and was a member for about a year until he graduated. I found out later that he attended some of the group meetings and /i/ s.A.M. " i/ 91-.... %. 1 \,:..,-. gin.,.. d.. e,:.........., D AUO...OD DIR 5200.10 EXHIBIT II Page 1

Page  2 EPRODUCED AT THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES DECLASSIFIED...... D E C L A S S IF I E D ' Authority \OO00o1o2 By W_ NARA DaLr o0l to07 3P: espy J Y/rel-2 Dec 43 had people with communist leanings speak to them. The other students,tunderstand, brokeup one of these meetings by force. About this time 1934-35, remarks of "Down with Capitalism" etc, were chalked on the walks and sides of the school buildings. In the spring of 1935 I had occasion to preside at a meeting where a white Russian refugee woman who had written a distinguished book was to speak. Members of the National Students League attended this lecture and the leaders, particularly Weber & Franklin, so "heckled" the speaker with irrelevent questions at the end of the lecture and during the "question" period, that I closed the meeting. I do not know whether Reno was present at this meeting, but I learned later that he belonged to this group of so-called communists led by Weber & Franklin. I haven't heard from or seen Reno since he left here in 1935. I have read the above and it is correct. /s/ S. A. Mitchell Witness: /s/ J. H. Crawford Ul is: EXHIBIT II Page 2

Page  [unnumbered] EPRODUCED AT THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES DECLASSIFIED Authority 4M412o2a By V NARA Datr o0410I07 /hvra 2 Dec 43.Y _ a^.sh P'.F'.v+f!an., r:'may Z q L ay?.?r? ".. e4a. s n +. d+ -a /SL^./" 4:J rasK V 1S " S i e py August 5, 1937 EhORANIDUM for the Chief of Staff: Today an officer from the Aberdeen Proving Ground came to the G-2 office and he reported that Private Holoway, Air Corps, stationed at Aberdeen Proving Ground reported to Lieut. Butler yesterday, the present of a Communist reported as a civilian at Aberdeen Proving Ground. Holoway's story was as follows: He had been "washed out" of the Air Corps at Kelley Field and later attended the University of Virginia. While at the University of Virginia, he joined the Communist Group with a view to finding out about it. He represented himself as having been kicked out of the Air Corps and carried out his pose so successfully that he was elected secretary of the Student Communist Group. In this position he became intimately acquainted with a student by the name of Reno who was listed as a Communist leader and another member of the same group by the name of Franklin. Yesterday in the hall way at Aberdeen, he recognised Reno and called him by name. Reno denied knowing him and he called his attention to their having known each other at the University of Virginia. Reno stated: "that was my brother." Records at Aberdeen Proving Ground show that Reno is carried on the rolls as Franklin V. Reno and is engaged in bomb ballistic work, an important position and one in which great damage to the military establishment could be secretly accomplished. s/ C. L. CLAM, t/ C. L. CLAME, Lt. Colonel, G. S. C., A. C. of S., G-2 DOvNGRADrPI AT V NT fR i.5 NOT AUTOM.AT(-ICALLY..LASSII, NOT DOD DIR 5200.10 EXHIBIT III.....---_--___ ' m

Page  1 EPRODUCED AT THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES DE L SSFE DECLASSIFIED Authority 00071O23 By 1- NARA Dat o41.0o07,M 2 Dec 43 CONFIDENTIAL Report of Lieutenant R. G. Butler, Aberdeen Proving Grounds. Office A. C. of S. G-2, August 6, 1937 at 2:30 P. M. Private Holloway asked me for information as to the means of I presenting an invention of an ammunition container to the Ordnance Department. I directed him to Colonel Zornig's office in the Administration Building at the Proving Grounds and told him that I believed Colonel Zornig could furnish the desired information. A few minutes later Private Holloway returned from Colonel Zornig's office and told me that he had not seen him as Colonel Zornig was busy but that he had seen a civilian emrolovee of the Proving Ground by the name of Reno. He did not recall the mants first name, only his last name. He stated that he had spoken to Reno and he felt sure he was the same man that he had known at the University of Virginia who was engaged in Conmmunistic activities but that Reno denied knowing him and stated that he had not been at the University of Virginia but that a brother of his had been there. I immediately reported the circumstances to Colonel Adamson. O< "- Reno is employed at the Aberdeen Proving Ground as an assistant to Colonel Zornig and as such in his present capacity is working on bomb 7 I ballistics and equipment for obtaining basic bomb information. He is in a position where he could obtain any information he desired as to bomb developments and developments of bomb data that is going on in the Arnr at the present time and he could also obtain information as to future plans covering the next five or six years or whatever happens to be going on. If somebody has planted him, they have him in a S... '.. EXHIBIT IV Page 1 ia

Page  2 EPRODUCED AT THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES DECLASSIFIED Authority t) 001013 By, NARA Dair: o411o07 - a ' r < y' },- a 7 a xaY s b;; i ' i o,3q-,a 2 Dec 43 darned good place. On his Civil Service record, information is, given that he attended the University of Virginia from 1932 to 19,5 although he denied to Private Holloway that he had ever been there. Col. 01ark: Does he do any computation? Lt. Butler: He does not do the computation himself but has access to all work done there and reviews the work done. EXHIBIT IV Page 2 t -- -

Page  1 EPRODUCED AT THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES D DECLASSIFIED Authority D90 0_13 By 14- NARA Dat o 4)10 7 a 2 Dec 43 CONIDENTIAL o/ Report of Private William S. Holloway, Air Corps, Aberdeen Proving Grounds. Office A. C. of S., G-2 Aug st 6, 1937 at 2:3 P. M. After attending the University of Virginia for three years I enlisted in the Signal Corps. I tried to be a flying cadet but was physically unqualified. I was discharged for physical disability. I then returned to the University of Virginia. While there, I met Reno and his 9 acquaintance Franklin and a group of Communists. Col. Clark: How did you know they were Communists? Pri. Holloway: The reason was that they were leaders of the National Students League which was backed by the Communist party. They ----- were receiving money from the Communist Party. Dr. Bardin had proof of hi I j! this fact. Having had some time in the Army and having been discharged, and knowing two of the group, I naturally had entre to this group because they thought I had been mistreated by the Government. Major Osmun's son and I decided that I would join this -e Communistic group and get as high as possible in the group and turn over all information I was able to obtain to Dr. Bardin to be forwarded to Headquarters Third Corps Area. I got into the group and got to know all cl of them quite well. In my estimation, this man Reno was the brains of the group. He was quite bright but a very poor speaker. Franklin gave all the Z 1 discourses. Reno was not brilliant but very keen. We were unable to prove S that there was any backing from the Communists of Reno personally but we were able to prove that Franklin was backed by the Communists and that a goodly share of dues of the University of Virginia Chapter of the National Student League went to the Daily Worker. The policy of this organization -*IBIT V Page 1

Page  2 EPRODUCED AT THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES DECLASSIFIED ~DECLASSIFIED Authority 40t40070 3 i By 1- NARA Dam; 041 t0o 107 awu2 Dec 43 (NSL) was to do away with all military in the Country and to take the money from that and devote it to free schools, text books, etc... We were trying to get a R.O.T.C. unit at the Universitycf Virginia. The N.S.L. was responsible for its failure. There is no R.O.T.C. at the University of Virginia. Dr. Bardin found out that Reno had been an agitator at the Carnege Mills in Pittsburgh. The fact that he denied having gone to the University of Virginia and was visibly affected when he saw and recognized me and said that his brother had gone there made me believe that his reasons for being at the Proving Grounds were not on the level. Col. Clark: How many students of the University of Virginia belonged to the N.S.L.? Private Holloway: I think about twenty-seven members were in the group. Colonel Clarks How long have you been at Aberdeen Proving Grounds? Private Holloway: I have been at the Proving Grounds since about August 24, 1936. (Copied from book that Private Holloway had Franklin, V. Reno (G-2) McCormick Observatory, F.A. 243 Ridge Avenue, Idaho Falls, Idaho) EXHIBIT V Page 2

Page  1 EPRODUCED AT THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES DECLASSIFIED Authority 41001.2 By _3 NARA Datr: 041. 107 LB 1EAU F I NVE TEGATI 0 N-2 N a LB EA U O F I N VE G aAT IO0N ' /' 3 [ >-2 Dec 43 y t' r 5 f '',e,..an y:; \; H:'s t k 9 This case originated at LTIO, MARYLAND 'Chis case originated at BALTIMORE, IVARYLAND..t S A,4:.- " File No. 100-8644 airw Report made at BALTIMORE, MARYLAND Period for which Date when made made 7/187/21; 11/1/43 9/2; 10/21/43 Report made by gb TREI WITH S. BASFORD Title Character of Case PHILIP RENO, wa PHIL RENO SECURITY MATTER C SYNOPSIS OF FACTS: Subject reported to have been brought to Baltimore by DR. BLU RG to work for Communist Party. Subject associates with known Communists. Subject discharged as editor of the Yardbird, official organ, Local 43, IUMSWA. -PREFERENCE: Report of Special Agent TRENWITH S. BASFORD at Baltimore, Maryland, dated August 3, 1943. Bureau Letter dated September 17, 1943. Bureau File #101-1634 DETAILS: AT BALTIMORE. MARYLAND On July 18, 1943, MISS MARGARETTE TIMMONS, Manager of the Breakers Hotel, Ocean City, Maryland, advised that PHIL and VES RENO were registered at that hotel, She stated that she was unable to furnish any information regarding PHIL or VES RENO other than the fact that she believed from conversation she had overheard that VES RENO was employed at the Aberdeen Proving Ground, Aberdeen, Maryland. EXCLUDED FROM AUTUMATC fRE(-RAD1N DOD DIR 5200.10 DOE. NOT APPLY Copies of this report - Bureau 1 - G-2, Baltimore 3 - Baltimore EXHIBIT VI Page 1 ',:: ---

Page  2 EPRODUCED AT THE NATIONAL ARCHIVESDE L SI ED - DECLASSIFIED Authority MI00)O01% By 1- NARA Dati 044'107 #100-8644 She advised that she had received a telegram on July 14, 1943 and signed by PHIL RENO which requested a double room. This telegram was sent from Baltimore, Maryland., Confidential Informant T-1 advised that this telegram had been sent with no return address but that if an answer was sent for this telegram that it should be delivered through the telephone number LAFAYETTE 1995. T-1 stated that this telephone number was an unlisted telephone in the name of SIDNEY R. KATZ. It is to be noted that SIDNEY R. KATZ is a key figure in the Baltimore Field Division and that the subject resides with him at 2401 Eutaw Place, Baltimore, Maryland. Confidential Informant T-2 advised that FRANKLIN VICTOR RENO was employed in the Ballistics Department of the Aberdeen Proving Ground. He advised that FRANKLIN RENO had attended the University of Colorado and had received a masters degree at the University of Virginia in 1935. He stated that Franklin Reno was employed in July 1937. He stated that FRANKLIN RENO was a leader in the National Students league at the University ofVirginia and was suspected of being a Communist. He advised that FRANKLIN RENO had received his Masters Degree in Astronomy. He stated that Confidential Informant T-3 in August 1937 had recognized FRANKLIN RENO as having been a student at the University of Virginia where he was engaged in Communist activities. FRANKLIN RENO told T-3 that he had not attended the University of Virginia and that T-3 was thinking of his brother, Confidential Informant T-4, according to Informant T-2, advised that FRANKLIN RENO was one of the most objectionable of radicals, and his reputation was that of a Bolshevik. According to T-2, Informant T-5 stated that FRANKLIN RENO was a member of the National Students' League which had Communist inclinations and which supported the Daily Worker, T-2 advised that FRANKLIN RENO, Winsper, Idaho was RENO's father and that his mother's maiden name was EVALYN MOKLER. He stated he was registered at Local Board #2, Harford County, Havre De Grace, Maryland. Relatives of FRANKLIN RENO in government employ were stated to be LIEUTENANT ARIGH A B, Washington, D.C., who is his cousin and emp oye in te NaVy Department and PHILIP RENO who is employed by the SocialSecurity Board and resided at 1230 North Hempshire Avenue, N,W., Washington, D.C. Information furnished by T-2 had been obtained by him on July 26, 1937... EXHIBIT VI Page 2

Page  3 EPRODUCED AT THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES DECLASSIFIED ~DECLASSIFIED, Authority W410001072~ By 1- NARA Dar ohi I07 #100-8644 It was observed by the writer that FRAKLIN RENO employed at Aberdeen Proving Groun cd was denticaI with the ES RENO L was at Ocean City,.Maryand wth sub ject. COMMUNIST PARTY ACTIVITIS Confidential lnformat T-6 advised that PHIL RENO gave a statement to DOROTHY ROSE BLUThMRG in the name of Local #43, IUTMSWA, stating that a release in relation to the SMITH CONNBLLY Act which was then pending in Congress should be given in the name of PETE FL ZANIS, Business Agent of Local #43. The release issued was that Local No, 43 would do everything in their power to prevent the passage of the Smith Connelly bill and in the event that it is passed they would call upon the President to veto it, RENO's opinion was that the passage of this bill would have a bad effect on workers in the shipyards. It is to be noted that DOROTHY ROSE BLMLBERG and PETE F ZANIS are carried as key figures in the Baltimore Field Division, T-6 advised on July 20, 1943 that AL LANNON, Secretary, District #34, Communist Party and PHIL RENO were to meet in the afternoon of 7/23/43. On July 23, T-6 advised that AL LANNON Called at the office of Local 43 to see PHIL RENO, Confidential Informant T-7 advised on July 25, 1943 that on that date, AL LANNON attempted to see PHIL RENO at the home of JULIA and SIDnEY KATZ, 2401 Eutaw Place. T.-7 advised that PHIL RENO had not been home that night and that the purpose of AL LANNON's call was to obtain the results of the election at Local 43, T-7 advised that?~NO had been out of town. It is to be noted that the election referred to is the election of officers of Local 43 of the IUMSWA which is the barganing agent at the Beth lehem Fairfield Shipyard, It has been alleged that the alleged Commtunist dominated ticket was elected at that shipyard. T-7 further advised on August 5, 1943 that PHIL RENO was to leave to'm on August 9, 1943 and that he was to meet AL LANNON on August 7, 1943. T-7 advised that PHIL RENO had met DR. BLUMBERG on July 1, 1943 and that there had been a large gathering of people at the home of PHIL RENO on July 1, 1943, It is to be noted that DR. BLUIBERG is ALBERT BLUMBERG, who is National Legislative representative of the Communist Party, EXHIBIT VI Page

Page  4 EPRODUCED AT THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES.. DECLASSIFIED Authority 4t4bOO1O2. By NARA Dats 0411D107 '! n....................:;:i, w... v u vi~ii ~. i iiiiii;i 4gii;:ii;=&:~ i s,v... u.:i 2 i1 =iii=i; i~ ii i i { i~ i Ji7- 7/ ~' #100-8644 On August, 1943, T-7 advised that ALERT BLU'MBERG had brought PHIL RENO to Baltimore to work for the Communist Party. On August 26, 1943, T-7 advised that PHIL PENO had left town temporarily and that VIVIAN SHIRLEY ASON was acting as temporary editor in his absence, He stated that the decision to have VIVIAN SHIRLEY M? SON act in RENO's absence was decided on the morning of August 26, at a meeting of Communist Party members. He stated that PHIL RENO was to return to Baltimore on August 31, 1943, T-8 advised on September 2, 1943 that PHIL ENO had returned as editor of the Fairfield Yardbird. He stated that he believed RENO0 had gone to Colorado for a vacation but that he had no factual basis for this statement. On July 30, 1943, Confidential Informant #103, whose identity is known to the Bureau, advised that PHIL RENO had called Military Intelligence Division, U. S. Army, and advised them that a race riot was contemplated by certain people at Sparows Point Shipyard, Sparrows Point, Maryland. It is to be noted that there was a good deal of racial disturbance at the Sparrow Point Shipyard during that period. Confidential Informant T-9 advised that on October 21, 1943 PHIL RENO had been fired by Local 43 of the IUMSWA from his position as editor of the Fairfield Yardbird. He stated that the reason given by members of Local 43 was the fact that PHIL RENO spent only two or three days a week working as editor of the Yardbird and therest of the time he was out of town. T-9 advised that PHIL RENO made frequent trips to Washington, D.C. He advised that the reason that PHIL RENO was fired was because of RENO's close association with SIDNEY KATZ, whom T-9 stated was in his opinion a member of the Communist Party. He stated, however, that the action of the Union would probably be later overruled and PHIL RENO would probably be rehired as editor. The following description of FRANKLIN VES RENO was obtained from personal observation: Name FRANKLIN VICTOR RENO alias VES RENO Address Aberdeen, Maryland EMPloyment Aberdeen Proving Ground Age 32 4 EXHIBIT Page 4.. _:.

Page  5 PRODUCED AT THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES DECLASSIFIED Authority 4O000123 By 1, NARA Pairo4 0I.t07:. ' ', 'I A Y #1oo00-8644 Height Eyes Hair Complexion Posture Chin Teeth Marital Status Peculiarities Appearance 519" Blue Brown, reddish tinge Light, freckles Stooped shoulders Receding Stained Single Circles under eyes Dresses sloppily Gestures while talking Smokes cigarettes constantly The following description of PHIL RENO was obtained from personal observation: Name PHIL REN0 Occupation Editor, Fairfield Yardbird Address 2401 Eutaw Place Baltimore, Maryland Age 30 Date of Birth June 22, 1913 Place of Birth Idaha Falls, Idaha Height 51'7" Weight 125 to 135 pounds Eyes Blue Hair Reddish Brown, combed straight back Glasses Wears gold-rimmed glasses Complexion Light Posture Stooped shoulders Peculiarities Narrow shoulders Has protruding ears Appears to have long neck T-10 and T-11 advised Special Agent William F. Higgins that subject is a member of the Communist Party, -PENDING EXHIBIT VI Page 5 --...,

Page  1 EPRODUCED AT THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES DECLASSIFIED Authority U40001O3 By ' NARA Datr 04 1107 ]hK.V/hwa 2 Decr43 CONFID l1TIA Septemrnber 23, 1939. Subject: Franklin V. Reno To: The Assistant Chief of Staff G-2, Third Corps Area, Baltimore, Maryland. I. In compliance with oral instructions from the Commanding General, Third Corps Area, September 20, 1939, the undersigned proceeded to Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, on September 21, 1939 and secured the attached testimony from the personnel who act in a supervisory position to Mr. Franklin Victor Reno at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland. Pages 11-12 I - U Colonel John B. Rose, 0.D., Commanding Officer, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland. Lt. Colonel H. H. Kornig, 0.D., Director, Ballistics Research Laboratory. Captain Leslie E. Simon, 0.D., Executive Officer, Ballistics Research Laboratory. Dr. Lewis S. Dederick, Senior d thematician, Grade P 4 Ballistics Research Laboratory. Private William S. Holloway, Air Corps, was not questioned as he is no longer stationed at Aberdeen Proving Ground. 2. A brief of the testimony is as follows: 8-10 1-4 5-7 &. Franklin Victor Reno has been employed at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, since July 26, 1937, as Junior Mathermatician, Grade P-1. His appointment was made permanent onJanuary 26, 1938. His rate of pay was increased on November 9, 1938, from $2000.00 to $2300.00 per annum. b. The reported activities of Mr. Reno as a member of the National Students League while a studCent at the University of Virginia from 1932 to 1935 was known and considered by the officers responsible for recommending that his probationary appointment be made permanent. EIIBIT VII Page 1

Page  2 EPRODUCED AT THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES -- DECLASSIFIED DECLASSIFIED Authority N ()O0012 By 1, NARA Datrc o1010-7 /hw i2Dec 43 %::Y', -: W la c. No one questioned knew of any one with the name or alias Eof Vincent Reno or Lance Clark. Mr. Reno is in charge of the Bombing Unit and Special Problems Unit of the Computing Section, Ballistics Research Laboratory, and as such has charge of all computations having to do with airplane bombing and the preparotion of bombing tables. In this he has been very successful and has shown great originality. He is issued the confidential and secret documents essential to his duties but is required to return them to the executive officer to be locked in his safe at the end of each day's work or when leaving the laboratory. e. There has been nothing in Mr. Reno's conduct or associations since he has been employed at Aberdeen Proving Ground which has led his superiors to doubt his loyalty and his superiors have confidence in his loyalty to the United Stakes. They do not feel that the information available to them at this time would justify any action on their part toward removing him from his present position. f. It is generally understood among his associates at the laboratory that Mr. Reno's grandfather was Major General Jesse L. Reno, U. S. Volunteers, for whom Fort Reno, Oklahoma, was named. 3. An examination of the personnel records at Aberdeen Proving Ground indicates that he was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, on May 14, 1911, that he attended the University of Virginia from September 1932 to July 1935, that he was employed under the W.P.A. in Washington, D. C., as an assistant statistical clerk from September 1935 to March 1937, that his Civil Service appointment was under certificate F-2502, Supl 2, dated July 13, 1937. His declaration states that his brother, Philip Reno, is employed as an economist in the Social Security Board and that his cousin, Arleigh A. Burke, is a Lieutenant Commander, U. S. Navy. s/ Wm. R. Woodward, t/ Wm. R. Woodward, Lt. Col., I.G.D., Acting Assistant Chief of Staff G-2. CON IDENTIAL EXHIBIT VII Page 2

Page  [unnumbered] EPRODUCED AT THE NATIONAL ARCHIES - DELCLASSIFIED A\uthority W4QO1 Q2. By 14- NARA Pi<< o4)2J10? __ _ __'..., I H r (aJ ------- 0C CD 0 CD C(D pi '00 CD u rlo H H DOWNGRADEDE ATA 12 YEA R INW.RVA S; NOT AUTOMATICALLYF D"-CLASSIFLED, DOD'' DIR 5200.10 CD 0 C'. sO. 1; b.., AL ti_ _;.

Page  [unnumbered] EPRODUCED AT THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES DECLASSIFIED Authority 4000O1022 By 13NARA PDir: 04110'107