To begin immediately a study of the possibility of the coördination of transportation, communication and surveys.
To continue the work done on the inventory of manufactures, of medical equipment and officers, of supplies, and of resources.
To assist in the development of the "Personal Index" already begun.
To set a fixed date (a date three months after the beginning of action is suggested) on which an inspection may be made of the work accomplished to that date. This inspection to be made through the submitting to the commission of an actual problem by the Departments of War and Navy, with the intent to determine at that time what needed information is or is not available.
To form a temporary organization to put the above proposals or any part of them or additional proposals into effect at the earliest possible date, with the intention of changing from a temporary organization to a permanent organization as the progress of the work makes this possible.
To begin a study of the best methods of expression of the work of the council to the people of the nation.
To scrutinize all legislative action touching national defense.
To do any other thing or take any other action necessary to give effect to the law under which the council and commission are organized.
PRE-WAR ACTIVITIES
At this time there was consideration of plans to enroll labor in an industrial reserve, and the question of mobilization of American railroads for military purposes was seriously discussed against future need. At the same time Commissioner Baruch stated that he had been making a study of the steel and metal industries in connection with the national defense, and wished for authority to consult further with the leaders in those trades. The Director was asked to establish relations in the interest of the national defense with civic organizations, patriotic associations, and chambers of commerce.