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.