The FBI is the most recognized law enforcement entity in the world. During its nearly 100-year history, the Bureau has been involved in many controversies, most as a result of straying from its stated mission to investigate violations of federal law. This survey is based on personal papers of the former head of the Richmond Bureau, John Edward Lawler. Fortunately for historians, these files, many of which exist nowhere else in the agency's archives, open a window into the operational methods and investigative techniques of FBI agents. An examination of John Lawler's career provides insight into the conduct of field agents and Agents in Charge of field bureaus during the 1940s.