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A Brief History of the White House Communications Agency

President Franklin D. Roosevelt

1942 – White House Signal Detachment

1942: White House Signal Detachment

The establishment of the White House Communications Agency (WHCA), formerly referred to as the White House Signal Detachment (WHSD), was officially authorized by the War Department on 25 March 1942 under the Roosevelt Administration.

This unit was activated within the Military District of Washington with the primary mission of fulfilling both routine and urgent communication needs to assist the President of the United States. The WHSD offered mobile radio, teletype, telephone, and cryptographic support services at the White House and Shangri-La, which is presently recognized as Camp David.

1954 : White House Signal Agency

In 1954, during the Eisenhower Administration, the White House Signal Detachment (WHSD) was reorganized under the Office of the Chief Signal Officer of the Army Signal Corps as a Class II unit and was rename the White House Signal Agency.

President Dwight D. Eisenhower

1954 – White House Signal Agency

President John F. Kennedy

1962 – White House Communications Agency

1962: White House Communications Agency

In 1962, under President John F. Kennedy, the Secretary of Defense ordered the discontinuation of WHASA. Subsequently, it was transferred to the oversight of the Defense Communications Agency under the operational control of the White House Military Office. It was then reestablished as the White House Communications Agency.

An Historic Legacy, A Thrilling Tomorrow

The White House Communications Agency has consistently held a subtle yet impactful position in historical events. From the Potsdam Conference to the inception of the United Nations, from diplomatic breakthroughs with China to the tragic events of September 11, 2001, this agency has been a steadfast presence. Regardless of the location, era, or presidential administration, the White House Communications Agency remains a stalwart presence.

Flag of the President of the United States

The Presidential flag was a new design ordered from Arthur E. DuBois and George M. Elsey by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

The White House

Where the President and First Family live and conduct the people’s business

The White House Communications Agency

Established in 1942 as the White House Signal Detachment to provide world class communications to the Commander-in-Chief of the United States