On December 21, 1970, Elvis Presley visited President Richard Nixon at the White House. The meeting was initiated by Elvis himself, who hand-delivered a six-page letter requesting to be made a “Federal Agent-at-Large” in the Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs. He offered to help combat drug abuse and Communist influence using his unique access to people, especially youth, through his celebrity status.

Elvis emphasized that he did not want a public title or official position, just federal credentials to assist behind the scenes. He referenced his recent discussions with Senator George Murphy and claimed to have done extensive study on drug abuse and brainwashing.

To demonstrate his sincerity, Elvis made an unannounced visit to the Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs before the White House meeting — where he voluntarily posed for a federal-style mugshot. Though he was not under arrest, the photo was taken to help him appear legitimate in his request for a federal badge. It was all part of his effort to be seen as a serious ally in the government’s anti-drug campaign.

Elvis stayed under the alias Jon Burrows at the Washington Hotel and was accompanied by Jerry Schilling and Sonny West. He brought gifts for the President, including a Colt .45 pistol and family photos, and asked that the meeting remain private. He concluded by noting his upcoming recognition as one of America’s Ten Most Outstanding Young Men, a title Nixon had also once received.