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development of a generalized assassination capability at the
CIA -- that such a capability could be developed without
specific authorization from authority outside the CIA?

Mr. Dillon. Yes, I would think so.

Mr. Baron. But it is clear to you that the discussion at
the meeting at the Pentagon that you attended would not in
itself have served as an authorization for an actual assassi-
nation effort against Lumumba?

Mr. Dillon. Not at all.

Mr. Baron. Did you ever hear the phrase "Executive Action"
during your entire tenure in Government?

Mr. Dillon. No. The first time I ever heard it, I was
on the Rockefeller Commission.

Mr. Baron. Were you aware that the CIA undertook a project
which was run under the cryptonym ZR RIFLE to develop the means
for carrying off an assassination if required?

Mr. Dillon. No, I didn't.

Mr. Baron. And your first knowledge of any such project
was during your service on the Rockefeller Commission?

Mr. Dillon. That is right.

Mr. Baron. Earlier today we discussed Robert Johnson,
who was a member of the NSC Staff in the late fifties and
serving until early 1962. Do you recall whether Robert
Johnson participated in this meeting at the Pentagon?

Mr. Dillon. No, I don't recall. I wouldn't think so.

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