CIA Paid Spies with Sears Catalog in Vietnam
Background: The Role of Spies
Spies play a crucial role in gathering intelligence and conducting covert operations for governments worldwide. Traditionally, spies have been compensated with cash, but during the Vietnam War, the U.S. government devised an unconventional payment method: the Sears catalog.
The Sears Catalog: A Cultural Phenomenon
The Sears catalog was a ubiquitous presence in American homes throughout the 20th century. It served as a “mirror of our times,” showcasing the latest products and embodying the American consumer lifestyle. Sears’ vast selection of merchandise, from clothing to furniture to appliances, made it a household staple.
Espionage in Vietnam: A Barter System
In Vietnam, American intelligence officers faced a unique challenge: potential agents relied heavily on a barter system rather than cash. This posed a logistical problem for paying spies discreetly.
John Wiant’s Sears Catalog Scheme
Intelligence officer John Wiant stumbled upon a solution while observing one of his agents, who had successfully used a canvas hat as a bonus payment. Inspired, Wiant devised a plan to provide spies with Sears catalog items as compensation.
The Creation of a “Pay Scale”
Wiant established a basic pay scale, assigning values to specific items based on the length and danger of the missions they were linked to. However, he also encouraged agents to browse the catalog and select items they desired.
Sears Gear: A Political Tool
The Sears catalog became a powerful tool in the recruitment and retention of Vietnamese spies. It offered agents access to goods that were otherwise unavailable or prohibitively expensive in their local markets.
Specific Items of Interest
While the article does not explicitly mention which Sears catalog items were most popular among spies, it is likely that clothing, tools, and household appliances were highly sought after.
The End of an Era
The Sears catalog ceased publication in 1993, but its legacy as a cultural icon and a tool of espionage continues to fascinate and intrigue.
The Political Power of Consumerism
The Sears catalog espionage scheme highlights the political power of consumerism. By offering agents access to the latest consumer goods, the U.S. government was able to sway their loyalties and influence their actions.
The Use of Everyday Objects in Espionage
The use of the Sears catalog in espionage demonstrates how everyday objects can be repurposed for unconventional purposes. It also underscores the adaptability and resourcefulness of intelligence officers in carrying out their missions.
The Evolution of Spy Compensation
The Sears catalog espionage scheme represents a departure from traditional spy compensation methods. It reflects the changing nature of espionage and the need for innovative approaches to agent recruitment and retention.