ABOUT 66 CIC
- Origins in World War II: The 66th Counter Intelligence Corps (66 CIC) was formed during World War II as part of the U.S. Army’s efforts to counter espionage, sabotage, and subversion in Europe.
- Assigned to the 66th Infantry Division: The 66 CIC operated initially in support of the 66th Infantry Division, which was primarily active in the European Theater of Operations.
- Brest and the Atlantic Ports: The unit played a significant role in investigating and securing the French port city of Brest after its liberation, rooting out German spies and collaborators.
- Postwar Operations in Germany: After WWII, the 66 CIC participated in occupation duties in Germany, conducting background checks and vetting German officials for potential Nazi affiliations.
- Operation Paperclip: Members of the 66 CIC were involved in Operation Paperclip, screening German scientists before their transfer to the United States.
- Transition to Cold War Intelligence: As the Cold War began, the 66 CIC shifted focus to counter-Soviet operations, monitoring communist activities in occupied Europe.
- Integration into Army Intelligence: The 66 CIC was eventually merged into what became the U.S. Army Intelligence Agency, forming a key part of the modern Military Intelligence Corps.
- Notable Personnel: Several 66 CIC veterans went on to serve in the early Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), bringing their expertise in counterintelligence and security.
- Human Intelligence (HUMINT) Pioneers: The 66 CIC developed many of the Army’s early HUMINT collection and counterintelligence techniques that are still in use today.
- Decorations and Commendations: The unit and its members received multiple awards for their clandestine and hazardous work, contributing greatly to Allied security and postwar stability in Europe.