1972 Press Photo Defense Secretary Laird board Air Force plane at Andrews AFB.

Boarding an Air Force plane at Andrews Air Force Base near Washington Monday is Defense Secretary Melvin R. Laird. Before leaving he told newsmen the Pentagon budget will be increased to more than $80 billion next year. Laird was leaving for Brussels and a meeting ofthe North Atlantic Treaty Organization.

Photo is dated 1972.

Photo measures 9 x 8.25 inches.