Transcript of 157-10014-10227.pdf
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157-10014-10227 2025 RELEASE UNDER THE PRESIDENT JOHN F_ KENNEDY ASSASSINATION RECORDS ACT OF 1992
JFK Assassiation System Date: 7/7/2015
Identification For
Agency Information
AGENCY : SSCIA
RECORD NUMBER : 157-10014-10227
RECORD SERIES MISCELLANEOUS RECORDS OF THE CHURCH COMMITTEE
AGENCY FILE NUMER : 07-M-132
Document Information
ORIGNNATOR SSCIA
FROM DAWSON, R
TO
TITLE : DIEM
DATE 06/00/1975
PAGES 157
SUBJECTS
CIA
COLBY, WILLIAM
VIETNAM
KENNEDY, JOHN
DIEM, ASSASSINA TION
DOCUMENT TYPE SUMMARY
CLASSIFICATION Declassified
RESTRICTIONS IB; A1C
CURRENT STATUS Redact
DATE OF LAST REVEW 05/05/2000
OPENING CRITERIA :
COMMENTS CC Box 133
v9.]
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Date 08 /08 /95
Page 1
JFK ASSASSINATION SYSTEM
IDENTIFICATION FORM
Mr
AGENCY INFORMATION
AGENCY SSCIA
RECORD NUMBER 157-10014-10227
RECORDS SERIES MISCELLANEOUS RECORDS OF THE CHURCH COMITTEE
AGENCY FILE NUMBER 07-M-132
DOCUMENT INFORMATION
ORIGINATOR SSCIA
FROM DAWSON R_
TO
TITLE DIEM
DATE 06/00/75
PAGES 157
SUBJECTS VIETNAM
DIEM ASSASSINATION
COLBY WILLIAM
CIA
KENNEDY , JOHN
DOCUMENT TYPE SUMMARY
CLASSIFICATION TOP SECRET
RESTRICTIONS REFERRED
CURRENT STATUS POSTPONED IN FULL
DATE OF LAST REVIEW 01/20/99
OPENING CRITERIA
COMMENTS CC Box 133
[R] ITEM IS RESTRICTED
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8
PERSONS / ENTITIES: DATES: CATEGORTES
MMcCone Nu
Coloy Hillsman
Kennedy John F_ Tung DIEM
AMcNamarra Diem 1l Sept 63
QFAAR
Eodge
L
OCCURRENCE: In a Presidential meet on Vietnam with the CIA partIcipants
McCone and Colby the record by Colby reflects that McNamarra polnted out that
has little contact with Diem and has not been out of' Saigon; Mr _ McCone commented
that_ he believed that we should move cautiasly , that we should talk seriously to Diem
Gand that Lodge should be: to visit the countryside to obtain a more realistic
@e cview of the effects of suspending aid Mr McCone also_suggested that another aproach
ebe made to Nhu L to seek his cooperation ina departure The President asked whether we:
had carefully studled the detail effects of cuts in aid (as proposed In a' paper prepared
by Hillsman) It was evident that the effects had not been studies _ The President
asked DOD and CTA to analyze the Hillsman paper _ He also asked that a telegram be sent
to Lodge asklng him to try to reduce the press leakage from Salgon and to establish some
real contact with Diem Any current plans for aid negotiatlon should be stalled
3
and the
PresidenoujcBould pe welT mrord O Tay steps taken mn tnts ~OnFHTAFEuct as the
instance involving CIA payment to Col Tung last week
IG Report 1967 (CIA )_
)
P. 21-22 DATE Dawson
FILE 6/27/75
ing
Sodge_
urged
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8
PERSONS/ENTITIES: DATES CATEGORIES : 1
KENNEDY JOHN F
KENNEDY ROBERT F 5 Oct 1963 DIEM
MC CONE, JOHN E3
DIEM
Gara ]
SERRET
OCCURRENCE : On or about October 5, 1963 when the telegram of October 5 and 6 were sent
[
to MC CONE was called over by PRESIDENT KENNEDY and privately with PRESIDENT
KENNEDY and the Attorney General ROBERT F KENNEDY and took the position that the CIA
M should take a hands off position as far as the assassination of DIEM was concerned _ VC CONE:
felt that the President agreed with Iy position_ despite the fact that he had great reser-
{vations conceming DIEM and his conduct I urged him to to bring all the pressure we
could on DIEM to change his ways to encourage mre suport throughout the country My pre-
ucise words to the President and I remember them very clearly _ was that Mr President _ if I
was manager of a baseball team, I had one pitcher I'd keep him in the box whether he was a
good pitcher or not By that I was saying that_ 1f DIEM was removed we, would have not one
coup
2
but we would have a succession of coups and political disorder in Vietnam, and it mghl
last several years as indeed it did. So it was for that reason that I felt there would be
SOURCE STAFF
R; DAWSON
Hearings , SSCI, Friday
5
June 6, 1975, McCone Vol- 1, 2 of DATE;
FILE pp. 62-32 29 June 1975
PERSONS/ENTITIES: DATES CATEGORIES
Card 2 of 2
OCCURRENCE more stability if DIEM could be persuaded to change his ways than remve him
and hope that sOme group of generals could run the country better_ it
70? SECREU
SOURCE : STAFF
FTTF. nnnr
Salgon net
try
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1 DEPTEC 243
PERSONS /ENTITIES
DEPTEL 256 DATES : CATEGORIES :
1
RICHARDSON TAYLOR IODGE 29 1963 DIEM
SPFRA HARKINS
CDNFIN WRUDHFARer _
Richard
TQp SfOPF
1
KTEM
(Chief of Staff MACN) CARD 1 of 2
OCCURRENCE
On August 29_ 29631961; the following report was listed within the Saigon Station
S chronology of_August coupactivities as follows
0745 hours RICHARDSON;, SPERA and CONEIN , latter two of whom were scheduled to contact CENERALS MINH &nd KHIEM at 0815
same morning, were shown a message from GENERAL TAYLOR to = GENFRAL HARKINS stat aspects of Vietnam Situation being reviewed at WHITE HOUSE and 8 ment:
that second thoughts were beginningg in Washington. Faced with
this informationcand
Q
given strictly limited time factors_ RICHARDSON decided that the meeting with GENERALS
and
and KHTEM should not be postponed but that contac- officers would make this
MINH
fact-finding mission without encouraging or discouraging GENERALOMINHA meeting 3
SPERA and CONEIN returned from their meetlng with KHIEM and MINH, (con't-
SQURCE I.G STAFF 1967 Part C., p. 12 Dawson
FILE: DATE: 28.6.75
F==37573=3=
PERSONS/ENTITIES:
DATES: CATEGORIES
CARD 2 of
TMP SFAF;
TCCURRENCE
we proceeded to TRUEHEART 8 office to make our' report The AMBASSADOR
advised him of our meeting with CENERAL came in and RICHARDSON
RICIARDSON had
of' TAYLOR S cable
9
and of the decisions which
made as a result of the 'TAYLOR cable. LODGE was angry and that RICHARDSON E S decision had destroyed the
expressed the view
expressed a firm dissenting W
possibilities of carrying; out a coup. RICHARDSON opinion (12)
SOURCE
STAFF
FTTF
Aug:
"At
ing
ing
ting
"When
REPORT
WEEDE ,
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PEXSONSZENTITIES DATES : CATEGORIES:
HAE RRIMAN, Averell KENNEDY John F 12h-25 August
HIILSMAN Roger TAYLOR
3
Maxwell 1963 DIEM
McCONE
9
John (Mil ass: t to
McNAMARA Robert Pres
6o
RUSK , Dean GILPATRIC
2
Roswell (CARD 1 Of" 1):
Suil
OCCURRENCE:
The I.G REPORT' of 1967 (CIA) contains the following description of the events: of August 25,
1963 from a book by MARGUERTTE HIGGINS: "IThe crucial act
2
with its overtones of' Greek
traredy , opened with a cable It was dispatched to Saigon late in the evening; of August 24 _
) 1963 , a date made more significant because it was a Saturday _ Washington usually-empties on
sumner weekends or lapses into a sormnolent mood as officials desperately seek relaxation.
"The telegram contained spectacular new instructions for the U.S, EMBBASSY in SAIGON_
It was drawn up at a mee ting called by Under-secretary of State AVERELL HARRIMAN and ROER
HILSMAN Assistant Secretary of State for Far Eastern Affairs and head of the Vietnan: task
force The President S senior advisers were for the most part out of town. CIA DIRECIOR
JOHN McCONE was in California. DEFENSE SECREIARY ROBERT MCNAMARA was on vacation. (con'+)
SOURCE I,G REPORT 1967 pp.
STAFF Dawson
Pgi €
DATE: 28. 6.75
FILE
PERSONS/ENTITIES : DATES : CATEGORIES :
Dieut
(cont )
HEIMS . Richard
NHEN
(CARD
'KWk
2 of
SLhzac
OCCURRENCE 7
SECRETARY OF' STATE DEAN RUSK was attending & baseball Fame in New York. PRRESTDENI' KENNEDY
Ias at Hyannis: Port GENERAL TAYLOR says he knew nothing of the meeting until it was over
1
and the telegram long on its way _
0
the cable proved historic For the first time it gave the sienal to
'unleash' the Vietnamese military
9
flashed a green light for the coup against DIEM of which
7
the generals had been talking for so many years _
the cable of Jugust 24 was a radical revision of the previous philosophy
1
of' one war at a time It envisaged the generals J making war on their own government
3
and
with the implicit blessing of the United States_
"Tlne substance of the cable was that the U.S, EMBASSY was to make an effort (con't: )
1
0
5-6
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Page 13
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PKKSCNSLENLI'IES : DATES CATEGORIES
Dia
(CARD 3 of
Guu Oicibi_
OCCURRENCE"
Jo persuade DIEM to fire his brother release the Buddhist rebels end press censorship _
3 ?estore other democratic Liberties suspended under martial law - And if as the cable antici
wated , DIEM would not do these things then the EMBASSY was to contact the VTETNAMNSE GENERALS
and tell them that the United States would no longer stand in the way of a revolt _
the controversial August 24 cable was dispatched from Washington Saturday
vening after being cryptically surmarized to PRESIDENT KENNEDY at the' sumer White House at
Iyannis Port _
"The ACTING SECRETARY OF DEFENSE ROSIELL GILPATRIC had the cable described
;0 him over the telephone MR. GILPATRIC says he was frankly surprised that such an (con't )
PERSONS/ENTITIES'
DATES CATEGORIES :
Diex
(AD
XLAbL
@kWlai
OCCURRENCE:
Lmportant; set of instructions should be rushed out on a weekend But he did ught to veto the telegram since it had the
not feel that he
approval of the PRESTDENT _
1 In: McCONE s absence, the cable was described again BEPUTY DIRECTOR of the CTA who also did not feel
cryptically, to RICHARD HELMS
2 ;he PRESIDENT _ TM0 (5-6) 3 disposed to veto something; approved by R
1
CARD 4 of 4
07
1
14 1
1
6
and
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PERSONS /ENTITIES DATES CATEGORIES
LODGE, Henry Cabot (Amb: to SVN)
NHU 24 August 1963 Dem
DTEM
DPi6. 243
CAD_
OCCURRENCE:
In: a State telegram to Saigon (DEPTEL 243) on August 24 1963. #the ollowing megsag app arec
"The DEPARIENT informs the AMBASSADOR: that the U.S. Government cannot tolerate a situation
in which power lies in NHUJ 's hands _ If DIEV is unwilling to rid himself of NHU then DIEM
himself may have to FO_ The AMBASSADOR is authorized: (1) to inform the GVN that actions
apainst BUDDIIISTS must be redressed ; (2) to tell key military leaders that: the USG cannot
support a DIEM regime that includes the NHU S and that 'we will them direct support
in any interim period of breakdown central government mechanism; (3) to make statements in:
11 Saigon removing the military taint on the pagoda raids
"The telegram includes the following statement The AMBASSADOR and COUNTRY TEAM should
urgently examine all possible alternative leadership and make detailed plans as to how (con't
SOURCE I.G REPORT 1967 Part C , pp. 4-5 STAFF Dawson
DATE : 28.6.75
FILE:
PERSONS ENTITIES : DATES CATEGORIES
OCCURRENCE:
LW
218
'Skbi:
(con t fro card 1) 7
we might about DIEM S replacement if this should become necessary_ You will under_
stand that we cannot from Washington give you detailed instructions as to this opera-
1
tion should proceed but you will also kow we Will back you to the hilt on actions you take
to achieve our objectives 1f{ (4-5) D)
CARD 2 of 2
7
3
0
give
bring
how
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Page 15
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PERSUNS /ENTTFIES DATES CATEGORIES ;
Thich Tri Quang 1963 Diem
Diem
OCCURRENCE
Higgins states that the Xa Loi pagoda based on her Own
eE;
% was more a polItical
command post than a holy place_ It was
the headquarter YFrom which
the militant
Thich Tri Quang and: others had run their political war against the Diem regime
According to Higgins Thich Tri Quang told an Austrian journalist by the name of
t6 Denis Warner early in August that he hoped in the: process they would kill one or two
of uS .
HiggIns goes on to note that the State Department regarded the actions against a dozen
pagodas a betrayal of Dfem: S promise to reconciliate the Buddhists (Page 181)
SOURCE Our Vietnam Nightmare Marguerite Higgins, STAFF Dawson
Harper and Rowe
FILE: DA TE 3 , 1975
PERSONS / EN'TITIFS DATES CATEGORIES :
GENERAL TON THAT DINH MLLTTARY
GOVERNOR OF' SAIGON
9
COMANDER 3RD 21 hugust 1963 DIEM
CORPS
CONEIN Hleac( C
NCO DIMi NHU
AIBASSADORA NOLTING
R
OCCURRENCE : "On the night of the 2lst of August GENERAL TON THAT DIN , as military gov_
ernor of Salgon &d Comander of the 3rd Corps has established a curfew_ If I recall
1
correctly
3
the curfew was to start about 7:00 or 8:00 0 ' clock at night Anybody seen afte:
07 that time would be shot And that night , elemnts L
later on , we didn't know at that
tim _ later on proving to be elements of the special forces which was praetorian guard of'
NGO DINH MHU and the police dressed in mi litary uniforms attacked the pagodas in Saigon.
1
What was very pad about this, Ambassador NOLTING had already been relieved and Ambassador
14 LODCE was On his way to take p . 21 1
'R04
GRE
SQURCE 8 STAFF :
1
Hearings _
9
SSCI, June 20 , 1975.
9
Conein R, DAWSON 6
Nimr
Aug- 21,
SECRET
by
July
Lodt1
over"
==================================================
Page 16
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PERSONS/ENTITIES: DATES- CATEGORIES
Milting, Ambassador 21, 1963 Diem
Ambassador
Dtem
Thich Tri Quang
OC CURRENCE:
Higgins clafms that the raids the Vietnamese Army and the pagodas took place
five after the departure of Ambassador Milting from 5 and a week before Henry
Cabot Lodge was expected to arrive on his first tour of duty in Viet Nam Higgins goes
on to: explain that Diem clalmed that the reason that: the raids were performed at this
time was because: "It had become clear that Thich Tri Quang of Buddhist was that no
intention of coming to any agreement with the government irrespective of how many
consessions were made _ Since the raids would create an anti-Diem gropaganda explosion,
it would be Lessl the United States if they took e when the: new
Ambassador was
; Levbaera s8ngte
Vietnam For the same reason gr eatt e was taken not
to inform the United States of the plans_ The Heasod Ewas that Washington
could be blaned for something about which dknew inothing (page 183)
SOURCE STAFF
DATE:
FILE
PERSONS/ENF1MES : DATES : CATEGORIES
CONEIN, CIA officer (Saigon)
DON General 8/21/63 Diem
DIEM
OCcURRENCE
LSECHET
9
h On August 21 1963,.
3
at a meet between CONEILN [an officer of the CIA
Saigon station] and General DON: the latter asked for US & government
1
assurances of support ~88t1-8 Srpporet for moves against the DIEM
M regime _ (3) 07
1
14 1
SOURCE STAFF
1
1967 I.G. Report
3
Part C,83. RD:
6
FTMF: DATE: LJno Ior
Aug .
Lodge,
by
Saigon days
R1af
Icd
pagoda 14g
ing
==================================================
Page 17
==================================================
PERSONS /ENTITIES : DATES CATESORIES :
GENERAL DON DIEM
AMBKSSADOR NOLTING July 1963
CONEIN
OCCURRENCE O July 1963 , CONEIN received a Iessage frorn DON: Comnander of" 1 Corps
at the time , to meet with him in the Caravelle Hotel for 3 public meeting &d the hotel
was jmmed packed_ CONETN states that: "It was at that time on the 4th of that I
nad the first indication that sorr thing serious was being comtemplated
9
when: GENERAL DON
Ie that if the Buddhist situation does not settled that the military are planning:
ported this fact and I believe it was &rund the 8th or 9th of July, that more indi S
cations _ M p. 20
OlhE
SOURCE= STAFF
R DAWSON
Hearings , SSCI June 20
9
1975 , Conein DATE:
FILE: 30 June 1975
PERSONS/ENTITES DAFES CATEGORTES
EN DUONG VAN MINNH
7/63_
37r7
EN TRAN VAN DON
AJ_ GEN _ LE VAN KIM
IOE
EN TRAV TITEN_KHIEM 5
OCCURRENCE Tke Iilia l (opscts clCistn anc cgec cct 0
'0ilg Hk<
4 I0 €(
c(urfrd klc Gu4%l
WG0& Ts u X7 {eu +20 {M#Ewlble
1
4
Jx0k: 0 *# G9vMebl 032 {c; 309 UY
0} DS Dw 0e0nl {162 #306y '404 04800302[ 4088604 0
xt #L ( O~p
{541:! ;: siuinj WiWuerc &n !axi 03meu826 Xuor
{Icmpt
3 Ai 7 Ve KAg Aobcol 10 6080 JA0 0€ 02 *0
1
0) VMlmxro, 203 1000 resrou,2pi0 {0r 21G 246406.146 kcrkd lut Ii
>54 mcs 4q 2 dav0l62i25 %liti0u KUeeng.
lclJ Frn % 0n Bxien 41098 3030 0# t0 Jssw2 28ccerry oxar
1
'iband+d suj a 60 v 03 0l42d 02 6+4z1 80 0e0x14i Zik Gmiink t0 jlo8}i?g
#4 02 sctijnl enu32 H{cc Xk ((sut
fa alec; SOURCE: Hearings, S.8.C.I., 6/20/75
2
Conein
2
Exhibit one
STAPF:
Dawson
1
pe9e 10
6/30/75 6
FTTC4 JATE:
July
get
SECTY
"fhe cr
Lc
ksohin
==================================================
Page 18
==================================================
PERSONS/ENTITIKS: DA'TES CA'IKCORIES :
DIM 7/63
GEN MINH DIEM
NGO: DINH MHU
OCCuiENCE
tituks
Ga 0i
3 Q0n Iw02 02} 42668024 2k0 032 v kha d0l8cn 6
~is } 00 124) ?idew* Ciusm Taa #ANd iicy o% 02 0 tics,
iwlwinw @cnanl 4204 {Wbino] #eniuent %i24 X" X0v2 Xoneawlu
2?1 02 Wlidml 90402 Je Swrh TJ006 #A4 &xl1w
Nv Igoh 04 w R30 Bina ehe12 WRS A;:i eiesws}n
Tne 02044Vw 3X 113* W0ir Ngetee
5
#Zoi3 Witn @ds Ng" Tes:
Al 4 "elee
SQURCE; STAFF Dawson
Hearings
9
8.S.€.I,, 6/20/75 , Cone Exhibit one >
page ten:
PILE: DATE: 6/30/75
PERSONS/ENTITIES
DATES CATEG QRIES -
Diem
10 1963 Diem
9
OCCURRENCE ;
FUp SECRET
In SNIE, 53-2-63_
>
on: 10: "the situation in South 0
following quotation appeared:
"if as is likely
Vietnam" the
earry out and promptly the conitment
hekely madeico ChelB to
1
disorders will probably flare again &d
the chnances of
Buddhists
0 tion attempts against
him become even better:
or assassina-
the Comunists would
We do not think
combiriation
6f houldonecosanisy opooner
if he were overthrown by some
1
t opponents A non-Comunist
successor regime might be initially less effective against
the Viet given continued
support from the U. S could provide
but
tive leadership for
the government; and the war effort n
reasonabiy effec- 1
(1-2)
SOURCE
STAFF : 6
1967 T.f Renont nnnx ^0 2
SEthE
82n8
in ,`
July
July
truly
coup
Cong
==================================================
Page 19
==================================================
PERSONS LENTITIES DATES CATTEGORIES
DIEM 6 , 1963 DIEM
'IHICH TRI QUANG
OCCURRENCE:
Diemn on 6 1963 revived a
regulation banning the public display of any
reli_ flag--either the Buddhist or Catholic- having any precedence over the National
Vietnamese in public places or in public view: Higgins does not doubt that the
Vietnamese government S decision to revive these regulations on 6
y
1963 made
possible the Hue tragedy _ Ironically, action by Diem has been generally viewed as anti-
Buddhist His May 6 circular had been provoked a few earlier in Da Nang by the
excessive use by Catholics of the flag of the vatican with the National Vietnamese:
on view being soetimes tattered and torn and few: in number _ (91)
SOURCE_ 'Our Viet Na Nightmare Higgins Harper and Rolv STAFF
1965 Dalvson , Ra
FILE DATE: July 2 , 1975
PERSONS/ENTITIES DATES CATEGORTES :
CONEIN 1963
DIEM
MADAME NHU
OCCURRENCE
CONEIN stated that the catalyst that brought dow the DIEM regime was thetr
9
antagonism of the Buddhists. He explalned that 80% of the Vletnaese people claimed to be
Buddhists _ And that DIEM led a Catholic regime and that this drove people
9
particularly in
light of MADAN NHU S statements to the effect that she d like to furnish SOm mustard at
0) a bonzes barbecue or something to that effect_ Tnis made people want to Identify themselve::
against the regime and SO would go back to the pagodas CONEIN did not Inow whether or
not this became the principal reason for the United States wanting to rid of the reglme _
1
pp . 42-44 . Tup SECRET
1
SOURCE STAFF 3
Hearings
5
SSCI
2
June 20, 1975, Conein R. DAWSON
FILE: DATE 0
T..7 7OTC;
May
May
gious
flag
flag May
days
flag
SEGRE
TZP
1
they
get
==================================================
Page 20
==================================================
PERSOUSLENTITIES: DATES: CNTEGQRIES
TRUEHART _ JILLIAM June 1963 DIEM
MECKLIN , JOHNN (Dir_ USIA)
NOLTING , AMBASSADOR
Cae (8 2
OCCURRENCE :
Mecklin stated that the American tion following the incident at Hue
was to "urge Diem to repair al1 Buddhist grievances forthwith, to accept_responsibility
for the 8 killings
2
and to indemnify the victims and apologize, perhaps by visiting
Hue himself to do SO_ 6 (Ambassador Nol was on a Meditterranean vaction at the time
"According to Mecklin, Willia Trueheart
9
the Charge d'Affaires_
9'
applied on orders from
Washington , direct,relentless, tablehamering pressure on Diem such as the Uni States
had seldom before attempted with a sovereign friendly governnent In despair Trueheart
in June resorted to a Foral warning to Diem that if he continued repressive measures
(police effort to prevent and disperse illegal demonstrations) the bnited States would
be forced to disassociate itself publicly from such actions 3s7Ldeed did two months:
later The Ivarning was a momentous step_ It aounted_to direct offieial comnand from
(continuednext_card}
SOURCE STAFP
Our Viet Nam Nightmare
9
Higgins_ Harper tand Dawson, R
Row 1965 July 2_
r
1975 DATE:
FILE:
PERSONS /ENTITIES DATES CATECORIES:
DIEM
CARD TIvo Caxd 2
8
OCCURRESCE: (continuation)
the United States Public disassociation could have disasterous_ results encouraging the
1
Buddhists heartening the Viet Cong, strengthening the foreign critics_
perhaps even' stimulating the Vietnanese Army to try another coup' (100) 0
7
1
1
SURCE Our Viet Nan Nightare, Higgins Harper and ROlv STMFF 0
n_
posi
May
ting
ted
~wo
regimes
SECRET
TOP
==================================================
Page 21
==================================================
PERSONS/ENTITIES DATES CATEGORIES
CONEIN "Summer 1963" DIEM
NHU , NCO DINH
MADAVE NHU
CAN NGO DINH
OCCURRENCE CONEIN stated that the attacks in In Hue TolTowed uup by a attack In Augus
on the pagodas in Saigon consolidated the three or four differnt sects of the Buddhists
by making them become a political entity which they had never been before CONETN stated
that it had become obvious to people in the State Department , USAIB and J4SPAU
5 as: well
as persons within the CIA and the country team generally =
3
that the true power of the govern-
mnt at that time was not DIEM but rather NHU ad CAN_
9 as: well as: MADAI NHU the chief of
the womens" solidarity mvement DIEM was felt to be out of' touch with reality and not
ting the tr facts as everything was being channeled through his brother
3
NHU pp . 44-45
Top SECRET
SOURCE STAFF;
Hearings _
3
SSCI June 20 , 1975 , Conein RS DAWSON
DATE:
FILE
July 1, 1975
PERSONS /ENTITIES DATES CATEGORIES
CONEIN
DIEM
"middle
1963"
OCCURRENCE CONEIN said that the DIEM government started 5
could not understand their
the Buddhist antagonism but
chance to out of it
SO . He gave his personal opinion
as that had: 3
1
the 8th of
and out of it very gracefully within the first two weeks after incident: In HUE by meting the demands of paying off the families of those people who were killed when the military attacked
the 07)
been done , I think that we would have
pagodas In Hue If this would have
the political situation _
been much better off _ This was a turning point of
pp . 41-42
TOP SECRET
7
SOURCE STAFF;
3
Hearings SSCI June 1975 , Conein R. DAWSON
6
Ttt*7
May
get-
May
doing
"they get get
May
20 ,
==================================================
Page 22
==================================================
PERSONS/ ENLIFIFS: DATES: CATEGORIFS
DIEM 8, 1963 DIEM
MAJOR GEN . TRAN VAN DON (sp . ?)
OCCURRENCE: "Imediately after 8 President Diem ordered a formal investigation
of the Hue affairs For this purpose he appointed a 3-man techical conission led by
Major General Tran Van Don the acting head of the army (General Don was considered a
man of integrity by the Americans. )" The commission also included the Surgeon General
of the Vietnamese and its Chief of Ordinance After extensive interrogation of
Witnesses General Don S: mission cited plastic charges as the cause of the deaths on
8
"At the time, nonetheless =
9.
Diem' s clained that plastic_bo@bs: Caused the deaths was
widely ridiculed_ 04
"Unfortunately , no Anerican officials were witness to the incidence _ The American con -
sul had been: of town tut_besterdod_to dishel ieyethe_gvemment S efforts to'
#e 0
S,t3 nef:ea sqelca Sien NoreEnicd)
8p0*s5( 7e; STAFF
Our Viet Nam_Nightire, Higgins, Harper and Dalson; Rs
Rolv _ 1965
DATE
July 2 , 1975
FILE:
PERSONS /ENPTTTES DATES CATEGORIES
THICH TRI QUANG 8, 1963 DIEM
NGUTEN VAN BANG (Province Chief)
MAJOR DANG SY (ASST . PROV CHTEF)
OCCURRENCE
T40
N
Nguyen; Van later at the trial of Major'Dang Sy said that "While we
were inside two loud explosions ,suddenly reverberated on the veranda_ Then came the
sounds of broken glass, gunshots_ and exploding hand grenades In the confusion Major
Sy heard the explosions also and in attempting to signal what he feared may be a
0J)
Viet Cong attack fired three shots in the air; Unfortunately this was the prearranged
signal authorizing his troops to use grenades to disperse the crowds At least 15 of
1
these grenades were throw and the explosions caused at least 8 dead at the radio station.
(95) This statement though, appears to be in conflict with later medical evidence coming
from the: Interior Minister which found that none 0f the bodies of the dead had metal
splinters in their organs but rather the weapons expert said that the bombs were probably
1
made of plastic ad that 1 'plastic is the arm of the Viet guerilla. {v- (95-96)
SOVC: ST4FY
3
Our Viet Na Nightuare, Higgins Harper Row Daivson , R:
1965 2
FIIE= DATE: July 2, 1975
May
'May
Army
May
regime
SEu
'outi e ~eteo_glace
May
SECRET
Bang
Dang
Cong
and
==================================================
Page 23
==================================================
PERSONS /ENTIYIES DATES CATEGORIES:
THICH TRI QUANG 8, 1963 DIEM
NGUYEN VAN BANG (Province Chief)
MAJOR DANG SY (Asst Province Chie
0D
TCCURRENCE According to Higgins on 8 , 1963 on
the Buddhist birthday Thich Tri
Quang , in the middle of a religious ceremony began to a vitriolic anti-government
speech on the subject of the non-existent ban on Buddhist flags About 8 pm Thich Tri
Quang arrived at the radio station carrying in his hands a tape recording which he then
made the demand upon the director of the station to play He was ` refused Thich Tri
Quang proceeded to encourage an already active angry crowd which in the middle of this
oration began to shout and press forward. The director of the station called up Nguyen
Van Bang who soon arrived and attempted to appease Thich Tri Quang
2
but the latter would
not listen . Nguyen Van Bang then asked for armored cars in hopes that this
fighten the crowd and prevent any violence to the radio station. Major Dang Sy
then arrived with some arored cars and some general orders to disperse the crowd.
Police arrived and attenpted to turn fire hoses on the crowd, (93-94)
3OURCE Our_Viet Nw Nightuare Higgins Flarper and ROlv STAFF
1965 Dawson , R
FILE DATE: July 2, 1975
PERSONS / ENTITTES DATES: ATFGORIES :
Trich Tri Quang 8
3
1963 Diem
Diemn 8
1
OCCURRENCE : "No evidence can be adduced showing that before the Hue incident of
May 8, 1963 there was a religious issue in Vietnam . If there had been assuredly 47
the critics of Diem' s leadership would have trupeted it to the world. Complaints of'
alleged religious repression made by Thich Tri Quant and his accomplices in & campaign
1
of letters to the' United Nations and prominent foreigners
3
had begun, but they represented
6b
no more than the early activity of determined propagandists .
Mst hostile criticism toward Diem centered not on what he did but on his methods and
1
tr te chniques of governing_
1
0
Tt STFF
SECRET
May
May
give
would
got
May
AF@D
==================================================
Page 24
==================================================
PERSONS/ENTITIES
DATES : CATEGORIES
Colhv `Jzo , 'inh C: 10/65 D)j cr V
Conein
Xu;
IOe SECHET
OCCURRENCE :
Celby explaincl that # couplc of wccks hefore thc assassinaltiol thie 0 { assassination Ia) S Iot Jimcd at Vicn but at N] aj Cat;le Dien
thought
hrothcrs Jho Wc1 C cOn S islercd thc evil influence 0 € 3' 5 two
idca 0 € removing Xht Erom Victhlal Ivas
tlie sovermnent "Tic
indl 21 srcat deal 0 f{
on@ that Ivats discusscck in &rent 4etail
pressure Wis pit 011 {)iei 1o s CTld his brothe out 0 f thc comntry_ "At ()Je D0 int J rade 7 sugsestion that perhaps 1 coule vince hin 0 f the dcsirahility of Ieaving thc country [01 the hcne fit
oeon-
Jis OTen 0 f" the country itse]f That I Ccould 80 over Al arzue him [at [ think is the: scparable thing fron the actual decision t0 shoo t {)icm _ J think thc decision to shoot Vien has : conscicnce dccision tak:cn
'enerals which cawc 2$ 7 Vc1} nel developnent drjng the couT , hat
ietthc
face L goukcE: Suctiiy LaALLe Lici1le_
{ SoCrnncnt _ Paces 55-34 STAFF
ArlenAF
Hearings SSCI Jtuc 20)
)
1975, Colly DATE
Hawson
FILE
7/1/75
Fme
PERSONS/ENTITIES DATES : CATEGORIES
11/2/63 Wien
Ngo Dinh
mlein
nl
TCCURRENCE
3
'ncin s tnted that at 4J0 point in the climatic days lead 4p) to the aSSilssina -
Qn: Ic35 thcrc 2 dliscussion 0 € the killing 0 f Dier_ Futher therc liacl never
1
: en ay dliscussion at ahy time about Dien
himsclf bcing Kilied
by anyhod .
fact , the gencrals 21) d many Deople Wanted Dien o be around hut they coulc
t stand {i and Madlamc Nhi Diem 5 Tvi Ee . Page 64 - 66
TOP SECRET
1
SOURCE STAFF
1
Hearings_
3.
SSC
2:
Gonein Junc 1975 Dawson 2
into ( , (-)
by
111 ,
ing
20) ,
==================================================
Page 25
==================================================
PERSONS /ENTITIES : DATES CATEGORIES
COLBY WILLIAM
MiNi GENERAL 1 November 1963 DIEM
NHUNG
CONEIN
Nhu
OCCURRENCE: COLBY stated that: Apparent_y the decision by several of the rals the
ones that were present that he (DIEM) would be executed Ihen him , sent an
officer , a small armored unit to pick him up after found out where he' was dow in the
other part of tolm_ and his orother were in an armored personnel carrier with an
officer a young Vietnamese Vno was an aide to GENERAL MINH , head of' the coup grup and
they went into the arnored personnel carrier and when 'the carrier arrived back at head-
quarters the two were dead and had been shot several times . Thatofficer, incidentally ,
and a rather bizarre aspect of this
5
was himself apparently When this junta of generals
11 was overthrown about two: months later. Sorebody took that; occasion to shoot him_
pp 18-19 Uyhe
SQURCE STAFR R; DAWSON
Hearings
9
SSCI
5;
June 20
2
1975 , pp . 18-19
DATE : 29 June 1975
FILE:
PERSONS /ENTI'?TES: DATES CATEGORIES:
DIEM 7, 1963 DIEM
THICH TRI QUANG
TCOURRENCE 5
The Diem circular to ban all religious flags reached Hue 0May 7 1963 .
Since the city was alreadybedecked with the Vietnamese Minister_Qf Interior 1
Vui Van Long, arriving in Hue on_ the same date as the circular arrived went to the Bud-
dhist leaders and explained that the regulation would not be enforced "The leaders
17J of the monks were very pleased _ said Minister Long Tistenedto me and told me
that 1 had given coplete satisfaction to their desirese (Quang was present during this
exchange and joined in express: satisfaction Ivith the 25 angemnent not to enforce
1
the regulation: Some police in Hue did take down before the Province Chief could
0:0 reverse the order to enforce the regulation_ But the precipitating factor according
to Higgins was that Kuang sent a; few monks around to tell the people to haul down the:
1
9.
even though he knew this was no longer required thanks: to the Interior Ministers
actions "The monks were told to tell the population that this was being done as a
SQURCE: TesaTt o tears arder" b he Baadknot "652)
STAfF:
Qur_Viet_Nn Nightuare, Higgins _
2
Harper and Row_ Dalvson . Rs
1
1965
PIVE;
DATE: July 2 , 1975
6
gene)
got They they
they
He put:
Colby ,
May
flags
flag
'They:
ing
flags
flags =
HHta;"
==================================================
Page 26
==================================================
PERSONS /ENTITIES: DATES CATEGORIES
McCone
DIM
Diem
Nhu
Kahn
T@d QFl@EET
OCCURRENCE
In responce to aequestion_ as to whether McCone was aware of a suggestion to assass1nate
f 1 Mr _ Diem and had sent a_ telegran in that suggestion, McCone testified
that he did not think it was Mr Diemz
'#erpe32gtf23'
that "there was 2 prop Jsal one
of a number of proposals, in connection with the diffieult political situation that
existed in South Vietnam, to dispose by assassination Mr _ Nhu and General Kanh
when that was brought to my attention I ordered a telegram sent out to stand that down"
(4) McCone testified that "The situation in Vietnam was unllke other situations, We
were really at: war there_ My opposition was more on 'the basi S of considered juagement
that the action recomended by the station wouldn't in final an alysis solve any
11 problem. (5) _
SOURCE STAFF
McCone , June 6, 1975 Gordon Rhea
FILE: DATE : 6/27/75
5
1
07
1
1
7
5
==================================================
Page 27
==================================================
0
3
F 50955 DocId:32423615 Page 27
==================================================
Page 28
==================================================
PEKSONS /EN'PI'QIES: DATES: CATEGORIES:
LANSDALE
ALAN DULLES Mar 16, 1960 MONCOOSE
SPECTAL GROUP
DIEM
TOCCURRENCE:
On March 16 1960 at the Special Group Meeting there was dlscussion of' stepped up plans
to use the base radio at Guentameo to expand the stations listendng audience
VIETNAM Mr DLLES Referred to the worsening security situation in South Vietnam. and
cormented that this appears to be a sltuation where S_ F training might be in order_
DULLES asked whether it would be "politically feasible for Col LANSDALE to vlsit the
area to assess the situation on the spot . " DULLES also discussed briefly "the possibility
of assist the South Uletnam government to mount guerrila operationsin the north."
E
SOURCE STAFF
Mnutes of Speclal Group Meeting,March 16, 1960. KELLEY
FILE: DATE
6/27/75
PERSONS/ENTITIES:
DATES = CATEGQRIES
Lansdale
Dulles
12 , 1960 Diem
Hare Special Croup
Irwin
OCCURRENCE 8
On May 12 , 1960 the Special Group discussed the
0
from President Diem for General subject f the invitation
W that
Lansdale to visit Viet Nam- Mr Hare said 0) he assumed that the way in which Diem would: like to use General Lansdale would not be: acceptable to the U. 5 _ but that some adjustments
1
could no doubt be made. Mr _ Dulles said that "Lansdale
on to carry out whatever instructions he had
could be counted
IT
in a manner least calculated X to upset Diem. ToD SELE 1
SQURCE: Minutes of Special Group meeting May3z2 1960 STAFF Bob Kelley
1
FILE DATE June 29
>
1975 5
Bay
ing
May
==================================================
Page 29
==================================================
ZRSONSZENTI"IES: DATES CATTEC ORIES :
SRATESIC HAMLEF: PROGRAM
NGO DINH NHIU 1962 DLEM:
MINISTER O1? TH INTERTOR-GOVERNMENTE
OF VIETNAM , COLBY
5
HARKINS
WESTVORELAND GENERAL
TCCURRENCE : CONEIN stated that JI In 1962 COLBY assigned him to work with the MINISTER
THE INTERIOR OF THE: GOVERNMENT OF VIETNAM to be responsible for liaison between CLA and thi
MINISTER o a program called THE STRATEGIC HAMLET PROGRAM. The idea for this prgram was
that of NHU
9
the President S brother ard counsellor which was to establish security withi:
hamlets and villages in order %3 the people could deny access of food and taxes to' the
VIET CONG In this position CONEIN was able to travel quite extensi under the auspic
of the MNISTRY O THE INTERIOR , nd to: talk to the unit cormanders down to &nd including
If small sections; p 17 CONEIN _ was: done with the permission of GENERAL HARKINS ar}}
it Ias know to GENERAL WESTMOFELAND when WESTMORELAND took over E p. 18_
SOURCE STAFF
Hearings
9
SSCI, June 20, 1975 , Conein R. DAWSON
FILE: DATE-
30' June 1975
JFK
PERSONS /ENTITIES DATES : CNTEGORTES;
Maxwell Taylor Special Group uentcd
27 Sept 62 MOONGOOSE
Diem
TCCUIRIRENCE :
8
Taylor statcs that the Special Group and thc Sencial Group Augmented considered a proposal by I^ for covert activitics designed to harass the Democratic REnublic of Vietnam This had
1
Jeen prepared in response to
2 request by the Sec_ 's of State and Defense_
17J Faylor added that the Special Group askedl that
2 more detailed oneration plan be prepared
[t was agreed that Defense make certain equipent and personnel availahle to CIA in support
1
Hf this progran_ An elint flight designed to identify the North Vietnanese radar order 0f
)attle SO as to permit planning over' flight routes Jvas authorizedl This Wvill be; Elown out
Xf the spccially equipped aircraft available on Taiwan but with the Chinese
1
lir Forcc markings removed
;
and employing Chinese Nationalists-pilots docuented South Vietnam -
'Se citizens_
SOUFcE: Maxwc]] Tylor
memorandum the-President dated
SFAFF
PGI
1
> Sept 27 1962 005 6
RZTLR: ^ mt7 6/20/75
vely
"This
Saigon using
fon
==================================================
Page 30
==================================================
PSRSON3/INTIIES: DATES: CAiEGORIKS:
CONEIN
February 1962 DEEM
OCCURRENCE: CONEIN stated: # In February of 1962 two air force pilots
9
Vietnamese Air
Force pilots_ attacked the presidentlal palace of" NGO DINH DIEM . Tnis was not the first
indication there was Soire: thing wrong, because if you will rcall in November of 1960_ thy
'as another attempted coup _ At that tire in February; I was asked 1f I would gQ to the
different military leaders which I Inew and had Ior in the past_ to fina out what was #iy
political pressure , what was the temperature
9
was there really some dissidence within the
military ranks was there really a basis for an uprising against NGO DINH DIEM? I was u-
able , at this time
5
to determine: this fact Tnere was an isolated dissidence within the
rilitary structure This was reported in February and March of 1962 W pp_ 16-17_
SOURCE : STAFF
Hearings _ SSCI , June 20, 1975 , Coneiri Ra DAWSON
DATE
FILE 30 June 1975
5
2
0:
1
1
1
E
==================================================
Page 31
==================================================
PERSORS/ENEITIES PATES CATECOKIES:
CONELN
February DIEM
OC CURRENCE : CONEIN stated: J1 In February of 1962 two air force pilots_ Vietnamese Air
Fbrce pilots attacked the presidential palace of' NGO DINH DIEM. This was not the first
indication there was something: wrong, because Lf you will recall in November of 1960_ thr
waS another attemted colp - At that tire in February I was asked if I would g0 to the
different military lezders Which I Imew and had know in the past_ to find_ out what was to
political pressune
3
what was the tenperature , Jas there really sOme dissidence within the
military ranks was there really 2 basis for an uprising against NCO DINH DIEM? I was unv
able at this time
9
to determine this fact 'Inere was an isolated dissidence within the
military structure This was reported in February and March of 1962_ 01 pp = 16-17 .
SOURCE: STAFF
Hearings_
3
SSCI
)
June 20 , 1975 _ Cone R DAWSON
DATE
FILE: 30 June 1975
4
1
0)
1
X 1
1
5
1962
==================================================
Page 32
==================================================
2
HW 50955 DocId:32423615 Page 32
==================================================
Page 33
==================================================
PERSONS/ENTITIFS: DNTES: CATEGORIFS
DIEM
1963
OCCURRENCE: 'Most mnanifestations of tical oppostion wrote Henderson "were
vigorously suppressed_ Civil liberties remained an unfulfilled ideal Elections were
far from free and many of the devices used to stimulate popular support for the regime
bore the the familiar S of modern totalitarian practice No' doubt these moves could
be justified at least to' sone extent in telms of the overwhelming problems confronting
Diem dur his first few years in office and also the inexperience of Free Viet Nam 5
people with the forms and substance of democracy , but Diem had still to prove that his
professed devotion to the democratic cause represented anything more than 2 facade to:
disguise increasingly plain reality of stern dictatorship. U (164-165)
SOURCE _ STAFF
Our Viet Nam Nightmare Higgins Harperr and Dawson, R
Rolv _ 1965 July 2 1975
DATE:
FILE
PERSONS /ENTITIES DATES CATEGORIES:
NGO DINH CAN 1963 DIEM
MNISTER OF INTERTOR
@ones
8
ZCCURRENCE
CONEIN stated that: "On May 7 1963 "The MINISTER OF INTERIOR myself 8
his entourage flew to Hue in central Vietnam . Wnile in Hue it was on my aircraft that I
assigned to n for that day 74
while in Hue they had a very large meeting of different
military authorities and at that time I did not realize what was going On They had met i 0J)
the President S brother NGO DINH CAN who was considered the war lord , in a way , and some
decisions were made of which I was not aware of (sic) We returned quite late the night
the Tth; though I wanted to stay the MINISTER 0F THE INTERIOR told me: it: would be impossi:
7
I wanted to see
the celebration of the birthday of' Budda _ I wanted to see burnt boats wit
the candles lit going down the perfumed river but it was not to be The next there Wa:
an attack by the military forces On the Buddhists At that time the Buddhists as an ent:
was not a political force &d therefore thought of' being, and wnen the attack on the' Budc:
can about this was in Iy estimation, one of the turing points in what was happening j
SOURCE:
~Vretran; p 19 STAFF
3
Hearings SSCI June 20_ 1975_ Conein R. DAWSON 2
poli
tamp
ing
SECRET
day
==================================================
Page 34
==================================================
PERSONS /ENTITIES - DATES : CATEGORIES
EODGE Ilenrs| CABOT 1963 DETM
CONEIN
TCCURRENCE:
M I worked for Ambassador LODCE I reported to Arbassador LODGE and I rev
ceived Ty instructions from Ambassador UODCE _ They were cable instructions he had a very
habit of not reading sore thing: He woula fold a piece of paper and what pertained tc
you for instructions he would let you read that and that alone SO that yoU didn t know Wk
was sending it on where it carr from. He just read that and he said those are the instruc:
tions
9
do you understand them? Yes _
3
sir; allright
> we l1 carry them out ." p, 23
30? SEGaE
SQURCE STAFF
Hearings _ SSCI, June 20 1975 , Conein RS DAWSON
FILE DATE
20' June 1975
PERSONS /ENTITIES DA TES CATEGORIES:
CONEIN 1963 DIEM
S_sta k 4c&
ZCCURRENCE "T had never, and even right up to the very end, I had never been asked for any
resources whatsoever to help or to aid in the elimination of' any individual_ 04 p. 25
5
D)
TOP SEGRET
7
SOURCE STAFF
Hearings
9
SSCI
3
June 1975 , Conein R_ DAWSON
3
FILE: DATE: 0
Tine 30 1075:
good
20 ,
==================================================
Page 35
==================================================
PERSONS/ENLTIIES DATES: CATEGORIES :
Dawson 1963 Diem
National Sccurity Council
State Tept
CCURRENCE
IWP SECRET
Colby statedl that thc_policy of the chain 0 f CQmralnal anted F1 determination
whether it bc by thc Seciirity Council or by other authority is madlc to carry
out that policy is normally transferrcd from tle National Security Council
to the ahassador "'Thc ambassador is the President' s rercsentative alnal
has OVC rall 7u thority 0f al) Jencies in that contry , aud] therefore ahn important qucstion like this (the Diem coup) Ioulal passed to' thc runhass;ldlor
tolanle "Nolv thc othcr; asencies in] tolm wo#ld he informed 0 €thc
directive that wc might havc addlitional communication 3$ to the dletails "1S
to: how to imp]ement them
3
hich i1 this case (thc [iem coup) wcrc dlone through
dircctive to our Station Chic f to makc Shre hic operated very
directly im -
mediately under the control 0f tlic ambassador # Page J5 _
SQURCE :
Hearings SSC] June 2 0 , 1975 _ Colhy STAFF
Daiwvson
FILE: DATE;
7/1/75
PERSONS /ENTITIFS DA TES : CATEGORIES :
Spccial Forces 1065 D)iem
Co
3
OCCURRENCE:
Colhy statcd that 41 tho Special Forces (irst arriverl iu) Victnac work:ing;
CT^ in this country proer;m () de villages For their (} dlefcnsc
0J) When it gt to be a15 1 remenl)er 750 0 € the question arose a1& to Tvhether
they shoield bc trans [crred out 0 [ CIA into military control and this I0;1$
done dluring 1263; rilitary took over responsihility for that program anal
I Wi]l have somn@: JIQT € words to say ahout that at another time . M4 Dase 28 -29 _
7
TOP SEGRET
3
SOURCE STAFF
'carings , SSCI
2
June 20,1975 , Colhy Dal'S.Q11 2
nmr,
bvc
po] icy
ac[
1by
for
eloki Ekcw'
==================================================
Page 36
==================================================
FERSONSZENTIFIES DATES CATEGORIES:
BUNDY MC GEORGE TAYLOR , MAXWELL
BALL , GEORGE 1963 DIEM
FORRESTAL_
2
MICHAEL
HTLLSMAN ROGER; AMBASSADOR NOLTING
Tar SFcDET
MC CONE JOHN MC NAMARA , ROBERT
8EE80 ET BOSHELL COLBY
stated that the persons typically in attendance in the conference
rom or situation room to discuss Tatters in Vietnan during 1963 = MESSRS BUNDY BALL ,
FORRESTTAL =
2.
HILLSMAN MC CONE MC NAMARA GILPATRIC FFAYLOR_ p. 70 COLBY also stated that
generally the Attorney General waS generally not in attendance If the meeting was to be
with the President then it would have been in the Cabinet room and then the Attorney
General would have been there Pp = 70-71 The chairman of the meetings dowstairs ch
President never attended: would have been Mr BUNDY pp . 71-72 Mr _ HARRIMAN would cor SOr
tines_ COLBY re 'called, and Vice President JOHNSON would always attend the ones upstairs in
the Cabinet rom , but did not take: a particularly active part pp = 72 Anbassador NOLTING
when' he returned, after his replacement in Vietnam took a very active role opposing action:
against President DIEM to the extent that he Ias: invited to participate And his advice w
not accepted. p. 73
SOURCE : STAFF R_ DAWSON
Hearings:
)
SSCI
9
Jue 20, 1975 , Colby
DATE: 1 1975
FILE:
G Ee
PERSONSZENTITIES DATES CATEGORIES
CONEIN Sumer and DIEM
Fall 1963 5
1
OC CURRENCE: "There were (sic) not one coup There were several The problem that wa;
17J
facing the people that were making assessments of this was which one had the mst likely
chance of succeeding? We were at the point of no return. There was no chance of going back.
1
because there was going to be a coup _
The best thing to do was to monitor and keep the U.S_
goverment advised of who the principal players were what their intentions Were then: and in
the future It was: an impossible Situation
3
and also during this time it was getting down
to the critical element In October the generals had to have assurances that I was speakini
1
for the Ambassador: Several attemts were made to these assurances , and it was practi-
cally ipossible because of the security aound the generals
9
who were' already suspect _
p: 28
1
Ilp SElnl!
6
whic
July
plan _
get
==================================================
Page 37
==================================================
PEKSUNS/ENL[TIES : DATES : CATEGORIES :
Diem Sunmer 1963 Diem
OCCURRENCE
M Diemn was not conforming Western standards: of' demcracy_ And thls
was really the heart: of the ease against hin. Implicit In their criticism was the assupp-
tion that Occidental style demoeracy was in fact_ the answer to Oriental Vietnam' s problems
It was an assuption with which Ngo Dinh Diem disagreed on' both practical and philosophical
Fi grounds _
SOURCE STAFF
"Our Vietnam Nightmare " , Marguerite Higgins_
3 Dawson
Harper & Row
9
1965, p. 165
FILE: DATE July 2, 1975
PERSONS /ENTITTES DATES CATEGORIES
Thfch Trt Quang Summer 1963 Dlem
McNamara
Dfem
5
OCCURRENCE: Card-=
Higgins states In her book that "Washington generated pressure on Dem for concilfa-
1
tion was based on the assumption that Thich Tri Quang S grievances concerning flags and
such were: what motivated his Budist protest movement _ But it was evident that what Thich
07
Tri Quang wanted was a pretext to see. His objective was not a solution, but nonethe-
less than Diem " S head =
"Perhaps Dlem might have had a better image In the United States if he had personnally
shown Immediate public concern for the victims of the Hue tragedy. He then instantly
7
order generous Indemnffication of the families who suffered losses, but this was never
publicized_ Perhaps he was too: So Inwardly assured of his innocence was
Diem that he did not of going through the trouble of prevings It Heaveuld
(Gont inued "on Card2) kac fYeasea Mad f0 Ave , boys o/ /r 4 0
'suisryin U-d suel QEEeaed ZzL Tu'_YuuanEiefes
CCEt
Diecz 1
SOURCE: Our Vietnam_Nightmare by Marguerite Higgins ESTFF Dawson br+ 661
Harper Rowe
DATE: July 3, 1975
6
Ttt T;
to
certainlyuo
baxe 10822
and
==================================================
Page 38
==================================================
PERSONS /EENP['ES: DA'LES: CATiUikIsj
GEN HUYUH
7/63 DIEM
OCCURRENCE:
ZopLSECKEI
72u1 Cao} Cvawseains Delen} 82 IV Coip
{e32028,007422 ontf:oe € 38
{h12
coup prewedzale_
338 2ve: 8240
wlrh Oon8] 2ui #i 190n ,
Ie
26ei22N ~2f0rra4 ~> Vork
er M9
404 04 *2
213t fz7isio4
Tich in8 Zi[ Divixli
82 cefislcn,
*60 Gonsuintoz" dm}} ih
{imentul Emmendm?y
Q0
Kivigicr 037Endevs_ Ts 0040 epplled aljo
er by64 j6/ 6018
Mirbora 2 ; fu4 t0 4 1233+r
0 2kg %a3 "35+%200 #04 Ir0
0tent- 2 02 ArMor Cemesne
SOURCE : STAFF
Hearings, S.8.C.I., 6/20/75, Conein , Exhibit Dawson
page ten.
2AZE: 6/30/75
PILE:
PKSO/ENYVEIES 2423 CAEiQPIE:
GEN DO CAO TRI 7/63 DIEM
GEN NGUYEN KHANH
GEN TOil THAT DINH
GEIT DON
Tup_Segka
5
OCCURRKNCR:" 1
otner {a2erol 0zf400-8 such 03 10 Cao T~1 0
404 X04U 3844+24 #ire: 12f0m2d 0f Qb0 02wp plsrugr {0} 080 #ut
Xmy"% Anreweb i2 aw/ 0i *12 006141 Hriu Genefal
1
32 Iai_ Coiding ,m8r} 02 411 &r8) 327 Xmulled
{iet#&y 2+08287 0 A4y c*hei 322108- Jivislcn
8W2i Yer? "bed WJ Geral Crw 0re06lI 0i" Dere
1
couawl Xo A,EG {k cw@ Joi} Cecer2l 3681 :he] €eir
'cix4+617 ##l GlQW S nic+,84 CI 122 v,i6in3 88i6
"SOURCE: STTFF
1
Hearings , S.S.C.I,, 6/20/75 , Conein , Exhibit one , Dawson
page 10 DATE: 5
6/30/75
wi
2&44
one ,
Mv
==================================================
Page 39
==================================================
PEARSONS[EN TTTKS: DAEEZ: CA'TECORIES
7/63 DIEM
OC CURRENGE:
TOp LSECBE
40 5a
CONTINUED ON ANOTHER CARD:
~Jircub
0l0*8 0f 010 Fsesluemiioi erd besi 102n,ccucnc*8]
23 rd61 2 i#ra 4ly re0dione nrens ehe 2402*126. '13e 201502
Caxeic # 0or ccnngre) sluce Es2r ft #862 0815*92 00
TSITIAEII cp1p3 410 divin1on5 #o82 -9127 -6oCGVj Iiig'
Xo B e 60 1s2 loye,l *0 02% 1i2_ 90 #43 3o{o8 YpS
JO) DNr3 #2 %iel 210 coup plcitor;j #irh 29 'eKeprich
SOURCE STAFF
Hearings , S.8.C.I., 6/20/75_
9'
Conein, Exhibit Dawson
page ten. DATE: 6/30/75
FILE
21
PERSONS / ENTI'TIES : DATES CNTEGORIES :
OCCURRENCE:
TOPLSECREI
3
CONTINED FROM FIRST CARD: 1
02 20 04u40 Clorel 1X0 f40 #64, 3@w #044.81
17
2vi00 3 ~o_AN0cuid 849, 3 iir 368 6 87108
el7rs 346004 444045 t0 3,0W01} Qie WRX; *0
1
2021 {28 00 &80302_ Vi &0 #le83-4062 8300244 8C> w:e
1*3 $ G291* izgelfs #12 7260S3J- "WGar Grr 1
SOURCE:
STAFF Hearings
$
8.8.C.I.,' 6/20/75, Conein, Exhibit
one , Dawson
page 1l
1
YILE: DATE
6/30/75 2
one ,
==================================================
Page 40
==================================================
f4f6bJ"1 #44#44 E4 Llfz Llh5
7/63 DIEM
OC CURRENCE :
TCPL SEQE
0,0wn ~2 Cusior .@ 24 {:04 'ne {skocqsie)
W
36
34 Sx : Is02 09 ~S0? Coptsl 30 €00 Jwe: Comwouirn
Offiem 191 the F4*} @orces: Kiilen thm Csy WlI srlor 20 i200
XoWvs '%hi.3 Wly W8d ee {1E2 62 #c 1l3n #okunn cly ,
0e {l8 8f080 d:r08,y 80 #0l4brJ 91 A2d 08} crie knww
0r n218 1814 000} 0 "O2 Brirclwsla 060 &he 60023.3 3ojoi
80
SOUKCIZ: STAFF
Hear
2
S.8.C.I., 6/20/75_
3
Conein , Exhibit Dawson
Page 11_ DA'PE:
6/3o/7;
FIIE:
PERSONS /ENTITIKS DATES CA'EGORIES
7/63 DIEM
OCCURRENCE
8
1
0:
22 ai500 C1704800 {ob9 Loeliding sugport tocn;
#eh 00 AfrbereZin841 & si0cel
'9
erinea8, 80." 3842 Can ticted
1
fLzguzh AAvfvi4u41 Ccnders Vaeoercse Speclal Yorce8;
023u78 4 {t3 dulolus role "42 020 #ecuti:e 3r11 02 tha #ecret
7clica# 723 0 2422 coni2c2ed bn} 788 aleeya coridesed {h2
1
32r63 64; teir cwa_lernl; Joyob t9 Frcrri/en} 48t z _
SOURCK; Hcarings S.357;CI
82
"6/20/75 , Conein , Exhibit one, STAFF
1
page 1O-Ll Dawson
FITE: DATE: 6/30/7
E
*1002
ings one ,
SECEEH
TOP
by_
==================================================
Page 41
==================================================
#eirsUnks/EN'i "LLS DATES CATEGORIES :
NGO DIMH NHU
CONEIN July 11
3
1963 DIEM:
OCCURRENCE : CONELN states that: TOn 11, 1963 , NHU called the generals together for:
staff me and shocked them by telling them that he knel of eome coup planning going Ori
the generals This scared the generals &nd other officers , needless to say, that NGO DINT
NHU would be conpletely aware that there was some dissidence in the ranks M p. 20-21.
7e S47<
SOURCE STAFF
R. DAWSON
Hearings , SSCI
,
June 20 1975 Conein
FILE: DATE :
30 June 1975
PERSONS /ENTIIES: DATES; CATEGORIES :
Krulik, Major General Victor H. Diem
Kennedy = John F.
Mendenhall Joseph, State
3 |63
National Security Council
3
OCCURRENCE:
Higgins notes that Kennedy dispatched Krulik and Mendenhall to Viet Nam Eo make a tour of
1
the country to determine the effect of the Buddhist crisis on the war against the Vlet:
07 Returning Eo Washington, Krulik and Mendenhall each gave a different report on the
effect. Higgins notes that Kennedy asked wryly , W Have you two fellows been in the sane:
country?" Higgins goes on to note that this was Indeed Indicative of the American reae-
tion to Vietnam generally_ Krulik, Higgins points out visited the theatre of war by go-
7
to all core areas s well as six divisional and some twenty-five regimental and bat-
talion headquarters _ But Mendenhall saw the theatre of the political intrigue, i.e.,
Hue in Saigon. These latter two areas was the Viet Nam that Americans knew during
that time, and it was the slightly Effett, volital society whicha Gas the haven of Viet
Nan' s chronically critical and bickering Intellectuals- J5)
SOURCE : Qur_Vietnam_Nightmare by Marguerite STAFF Dawson
1
Harper and Rowe 6
n 4 TF .
July
ting
Cong
ing
only
8g486
==================================================
Page 42
==================================================
PERSONS/ENTITIES DATES CATEGQRTES
NFIU , NGO DLNH
DIEM
CONEIN August 1963
OCCURRENCE : The coup aborted, because one , they did not have necessary forces
I'm talking about the coup plotters did not have the necessary forces to combat those
loyal to the DIEM government , namely elements of the Marines elements of the Rangers
presidential guard, and other units , and especially the Special Forces which were- the bes f
armed troops available Also , announced in the press that the CIA was paying to.have
a coup This Was 3 very shrewd and calculating move on any man on the quality NGO DINH N:
who was a 'shrewd politician and: also master of psychological warfare t pp 22-23
Wp SEECrEI
SOURCE STAFF R_ DAWSON
Hearings SSCI June 20, 1975 , Conein DATE: 20 June 1975
FILE
PERSONS /ENTIPIES DAFES CATEGORIES :
VIETNAESE SPECIAL FORCES
COLBY August 1963 DIEM
OCCURRENCE TCOLBY sEated that As part of Ehe pressureon Ehe governient in the Tugus;
period in response to the fact that these SPECIAL FORCES ' with Vietnarese military and wit;
5
Vietnamese police had conducted the raid on pagodas_
%
CIA was directed to suspend its 385181
ance to the SPECIAL FORCES We did not suspend our assistance to the police or to the
military Who were involved in that but CIA is an easy thing to turn off_ turn on and off_
The other programs are Iuch more difficult to turn o and off In a_ simle I think t: 07J
has had a certain influence in what did_ I mow it resulted in the transfer of sever:
uits outside of Saigon when we said_ we would continue to support then: 0 p. 78-79
7
SOURCE: SPA FF
R. DAWSON
1
Hearings SSCI
9
June 20, 1975 ,
PILE: DATE 1 July 1975 1
they
@icoact
1
way ,
they
Colby
==================================================
Page 43
==================================================
KJWJUNo/ LN)fildS JAEs- CA'EGOKLLS :
GMADAIE NHU
ECONEIN August 1963 DIEM
5
TCCURRENCE :
CONEIN states that "Just before August 21, 1963 there were periods the_
3 Fbonzes burned themselves and that there had been local press: releases made by MADAME NHU
W ntnat were sometins not too well received by the Americans , and also antagonized the popul:
tion # p . 21 1
1
6
T1? SECMEE
SOURCE STAFF
Hearings
$
SSCT June 20 _
>
1975 , Conein R: DAWSON
TIGE: DATE:
31 June 1975
PERSONSVENTITIES: DATES CATEGORIES
COMMODITY IMORT' PROGRAM
DIEM August 1963
COGEDINNILHAIAM
CONETN
~r SECRET
9
TCCURRENCE
COLBY stated that the United States sought to pressure on President DIEM
and the goverment particularly to remove NCO DIN NHU from the country_
9
to bring about cer_
tain changes of policy in August of" 1963 that was thought necessary to improve the perfor_
mance of the government of South Vietnam. Among these were the 8 uspenslon of Public Law 480 aid the 8 uspension of' the commodlty uport. program: And also through various contacts
with dissident generals the United States was requested whether it would stand aside if
the generals ran their Own: coup , and were given the response In general terms that
"Yes
9 we would stand aside and yes , we' would continue the aid program 1f' a successor gOV-
ernment took over and looked reasonably able to carry on the war . This can be read as
a green light to the generals. This message was passed through a CIA officer but his cre- ditentials were checked by the generals recelving this kind of a message_ with the Ambassador
and with the Chief of the_Mlitary Aidgroup in_ SO that_there was no_questfon
SOURCE about what U.S_ policy was
2
nor that the CL: "fficer STAFF
was speaklng for the Ambassador with his Iowledge ahd consent _
#T R DAWSON
FILE:
Hearings
3
SSCL, June 20, 1975, Colby_
9 pp 10-11 DATE 29 June 1975
put
they
only
Salgon
==================================================
Page 44
==================================================
3 PERSONSLENTITIES : DATES : CATEGORIES:
DIEM 1
COLBY WILLIAM August 1963 DTEM
NOLTING
IODGE , Henry Cabot
5
4
8
OCCURRENCE
COLBY testified that during August 1973 between the change of' ambassadors
4
from NOLTING to LODGE that the government of South Vletnam took that period and raided
Buddists pagadas &d essentially sought to surpress the' Buddihist dissidence COLBY stated
that DIEM went out and supressed this kind of active dissidence justifying: it in his mind
and publicly as not accept this kilnd of' dissidence during a wartime situation which that
country was faced with COLBY claied that this suppression only served to adversely affect
DIEM' s here in: the United States and intensify the fee of dissent within the educa-
ted class in Salgon and in the cities weakened himself rather than strengthen hlmself_
5 TUr SEERE
SOURCE STAFF :
Hearings
9
SSCI June 20, 1975, Colby
9
pp _ 8-9 R. DAWSON
FILE; DATE
29 June 1975
Gt
PERSONVENRI'IES- DATES: CATRGOR IES
DIEM
DIEM 7 , 1963
NOLTING AMBASSADOR
RICHARDSON _ JOHN
OCCURRENCE Higgins asked Diem 'in an interview on August 1963 whether Diem Ehought
the United States was plotting against him _ Diem replied: "I do not think Ambassador
Nol is plotting against me I do not think Richardson /Of the CIA is plotting
against me [ knowv there are American officials who are preparing the way in the event
the decision is taken to try and rid of me_ I cannot forsee the future_ And I
cannot believe that America would turn against an ally under attack: engaged in a struggle
for its very existence But soine people are crazy--and the world is crazy Still
Miss Higgins
5
I hope that government will take a realistic look at these young
generals plotting to take Iy place How much maturity or political unders tanding do
have - of their Own' country, let alone the world?" (169)
SOURCE ESFAFF
Oui Viet_Nam_Nightware, Higgins Harper and Dawson, R
ing
image ling 1
Aug -
ting
get
your
they
SECMET
TaD
==================================================
Page 45
==================================================
0 PERSONS/ENTITIES DATES CATEGORIES
DIEM 1
~EE LODGE AMBASSADOR 7 _
0
1963
Caxc l-6 2
E OCTURECE:
During an
interview by Hliggins with DIEM on August 7 1963 m Diem
sent an aide for document , which I later deduced to be: a memorandum of a recent con-
MJ versation with an American official
"Your ambassador Diem resued 'comes and tells me that it enhances my
posture of the liberal image to permit demonstrations in the street by the Buddhists
1
and the political opposition_ I cannot seem
to convinvce the embassy that this is Viet
Nam--not the United States of America We have had reason to ban street demonstra-
6 tions in the middle of a war, the reason is that the Viet Cong #re}everywhere _ AIhat
would happen if the Viet Cong should infiltrate the demonstration jhere in"Saigon , toss
a bomb_ kills dozens of persons including some American Pres: WWhat would liberal
on say of me then? Would they believe My govexnmene when it said that the Viet
Cong were responsible for the killings because the Communists could profit from
SOTJRCE Qur _Viet Nw Nightare Tiggins , Harper and Rolv STAFF"
1965 Dawson , R.
FILE
DAE July 2, 1975
PERSONS /ENTI'IES DATES: CA FEGORTES:
DIEM
CARD TWO
2 {2
~CCURREICE
(continuation)
such an event? Consider what happened at Hue These plastic bombs were throw by the
Viet Cong- but--whom did the Americans blame? blamed me the President of Viet
Nam- and the Vietnamese Would be any more charitable next e? This is
not child ' s play I a not inventing Viet Cong terror Yet when I stosprotect the
people of this country--including the Americans police_Wojk 'keeping control in
the streets I am accused of persecuting the Buddhists!" 7167
SOURCZ: STAFF
Our Viet_Na Nightmare, Higgins Harper and Row_ Dawson
2
R.
1965
FJI,E: DATR: July 2 , 1975
Aug:
8
good
and
opinic
only
Cad
They
they Army _
good -by
TOP
==================================================
Page 46
==================================================
4 PERSONS/ENTITIESMilting Amb .
DATES : CATEGORIES :
Affair Saigon Embassy] 1
Hils Roger Assistant Secretary of State] Dieu
@rueheart, William [Mechlin, Director, YsfA
3/14/3
{"tet -#a# Cad (
ECARD
1
OCCURRENCE Higgins points out that on August 14 1963 Hilsman, in a vofce of America
M 0 broadcast declared that the Buddhist crisis was beginning to affect the war effort
Ins decided to check this story with the Salgon Embassy in approached Mil who
was at that' time In conference with Trueheart and Mechlin. Milting told Higgins that
"Our report shows that the Buddhist crisis is not having any impact at all--though,
of course, it could if riots become severe enough to necessitate diverting front-line
J! troups _ 1
"We have made a special check the Ambassador continued , 4i of the rumor that Bud-
dhist and Catholics are eating apart an Army messes. Nothing to it_ I don t know what
5
Hilsman based this statement on. But he isn t basing It on anything that went out of
his Embassy the military mission, or the CIA: m} Mechlig suggested to Milting that
perhaps he should not licly deny Hilsman S commene "H Isman was , after all,
Milting' 8 boss . I Higgins returning to tthereafter called Hilsman
(Continued on' Card 2)
EmdSU
SOURCE: Our Vietnam_Nightmare by Marguerite Higgins STAFF Dawson
Harper and Rowe
FILE: DATE 3 , 1975
PERSONS /ENTITIES DATES CATEGORIES :
Cad 2 ek 2
TCCURRENCE
Card 2
to find out what was the basis for his broadcast Hilsman conceded that in fact he had
based his account upon the reports in the New York Times and other press dispatches out
of Saigon. (page xAk 124-125)
SQURCE STAFF
FILE: DATE:
aan,
ting Higg
pub_
July
SECRET
TOP
==================================================
Page 47
==================================================
2 PEKSONS/ENTiTLES : DATES: CATEGORIES:
1 Diem 14 August 1963 Diem
OCCURRENCE
TOk SeARET
L
In the Current_Intelligence_temorandum (OCI 2339/63): Rumors in
South Vietnam" the following quotation appeared: M( the coup reports
and rumors which have arisen since the Buddhist crisis seem to reflect
D some serious coup plotting Awe have no firm evidence of' advancel planning
by any group to attempt; to overthrow the regime T: (2)=
1
5
SOURCE: STAFF
1967 I.G. Report
9
C, RD
FILE: DATE
0834542 43DE34737546773 253Z
6/28/15_===
viia
PERSONS /ENTITIES DATES CATEGORIES :
DIEM 8/21/63 Diem
Ball Underseeretary of State
Helms, Richard
Colby Wm _
OCCURRENCE :
FH SEGC
On 21 August 1963, South Vietnamese troops and police attacked the occupied'
Buddhist pagodas throughout_ the country _ DIEM imposed nationwide martial
law _ At a presidential meet: on Vietnam on this same date_ the participants
from the CIA including the DCI_ DDP
3
and Chief of Far Eastern Division, it
was pointed out that on" notes taken by the Chief of the Far Eastern Division
that "on the matter of' possible alternate leadership in Vietnam, it: was
pointed out that there was no indication that DIEM was not: in full control Ti
(2)
SOURCE STAFF
1967 I.G. Report
3:
Part C RD
FILE: DATE
Cage 6/28/75
"coup
0.2 part
Cage
ing
==================================================
Page 48
==================================================
PERSONS/ENTITIES=
8
1
DATES
CATEGORIES:
DIEM
8/21/63
Diem 1
OCCURRENCE:
Tap SECLET
On 21 August 1963, the current
in South Vietnam"
attecd igrace _
memorandum (OCI 2341/63):
against the DIEM government
beet "additional reports of plot-
hauatividence Of' uminent actior; been received _ While there is no
1
situation dangerous_
Tt (3)
the Buddhist
continues to make
the
SOURCE
1967 I.G. Report, Part €_ STAFF :
FILE:
RD DATE:
6/28/75
PERSONS /ENTITIES DATES CATEGORIES
21 August 1963 DIEM
CONEIN
NGQ DINH NHU,_
GENERAL DON
TOP SECRET
OCCURRENCE
'During the period between 21 August and the lifting of mrshall law on 16
September GENERAL DINH actually considered hdmself the hero of Vietnam ad the savior of
the DIEM regime DINH , on approximately 31 August had the audacity to inform both President
DIEM and counsellor NHU that he was: their savior and requested a ministerial post for himsell
NHU' s reaction was order him to Dalat for a rest _ I1; During this period of' time DINH
realized that he had been played for a dupe by DIEM. The generals would recognize this fact
and GENERAL DON started playing on DINH's vanity by telling him that he was a real hero and
that above all should have been thanked by DIEM and NHU for saving the government_
pp 12-13
SOURCE : STAFF
Hearings SSCI Jue 20
%
1975 Exhibit 1, Conein R. DAWSON
ITt 1 nnnR
"Coup Runors
ting
have
issue
',{,3
Cage
to
==================================================
Page 49
==================================================
0
PERSONS /ENTITIES DATES : CATEGQRIES :
1
Diem August 21 196_ Dlem
OCCURRENCE {650r 1
Higgins charactertzes the raids @nxKakuf on: the XaLoi
Zndt0R,
on
August 21 1963 as the turning point In American policy toward Viet Nam She states
that this crystalizes the feelings of a powerful action inside the Kennedy Administration
that Diem had to be opposed
raised stories from Saigon scene that had al1 the inventiveness of an 1
Oriental Ian Fleming_ Soldiers In battle dress were wearing gasmasks "stormed" into
shortly after midnight. A of bells
4 a blood-curdling
6
scream shattered the spirits serenity . One eye witness professed to see
two monks thrown twenty feet from a' balcony. Extravagant rumors about the number of
death and wounded spread like a wild malignancy_
"When the United Nations in Viet Nan investigated the rumors: in
(Gontimeto CartZ 3nMks Custd_Eyd_noextdeuce_ tatauyoLbad_been
SOURCE Our Vietnam_Nightmare by Marguerite Iliggins STAFF Dawson
Harper and Rowe
Te rxestisa toys talrd at (emth
wlo Bcen DATE: July 2, 1975:
FILE: preset dur;) Me @tie ala :Xa Loi aad elseoleve (s6-J
1id_ 6c 2
PERSONS / ENTI'TIES : DATES CATEGORIES :
DLEM 8/21/63 Diem
Ball
3.
Undersecretary of State
Helms, Richard
Colby Win .
TmT
OCcURRENCE
SECU
On 21 August 1963, South Vietnamese troops and police' attacked the occupied
Buddhist pagodas throughout the country _ DIEM imposed nationwide martial
law_ At a presidential meeting on Vietnan on this same date the participants
from the CIA including the, DCI DDP and Chief of Far Eastern Division, it
was pointed out that on notes taken by the Chief of' the Far Eastern Division
that "on the matter of' possible alternate leadership in Vietnam, it was
pointed out that there was: no indication that DIEM was not in full control_ #6
(2)
SOURCE STAFF
1967 I.G. Report Part C RD
FILE: DATE:
6/28/75
SECRET
tu
lateahc
had
Cage
==================================================
Page 50
==================================================
3 PKRSONS /ENT'T'PIES DAIES: CAiFGOKIES:
1
21 AUG _ thru
DIEM
16 SEFT
OCCURRENCE:
L
During 012 neriod #2tesn
MSc W! h3 14feu c2 0rifel Jaw SN 16 Ceprewbef
:9:
Cener?l
nirh {lly {esdared h4m3912 #j10 Htero 0f Viata end 8H2
1 90i0 01 040 ciem Bicudju2_
8
SOURCE STAFF Hearings, S.S.C.I
>
6/20/75 Cone Exhibit one , Dawson
page 12 _
PILE: 2ATE:
6/30/75
PibnOS/KN"TI"TES 333: cnEGOxlkS
EENERAL DINH 11/1/63 DIEM
21 AUG: thr
16 SEFF '63
OCCUIRENCF: TCp SECRET
Dink ',
#2 fcdior Gu"'Log 212 3fo 83
24114 @vvo; 010 09# ender h 09 *h} Pojuls.dcu 04 k12
63 CSr+Mrs
SQUFCE; S1417F Dawson
Hearings _
X
S. 8.C.I., 6/20/715 =
>
Conein
3
Exhibit one ,
page 12 DATE 6/30/75
RILE:
SECiE
TOP
in ,
Xaw
==================================================
Page 51
==================================================
4 PERSONS/ENTI'PIES : DA'TES 'CATECUKIES
1
HILLSMAN Roger (Assistant
8/22/63 Diem Secretary of State for Far
Eastern Af fairs)
8 CIA
OCcURRENCE ;
On August 22 1963 in a CIA cable to Saigon (DIR 63334) the fol lowfng
7
message appeared: "Ref dept telegram in process Reftel (which Kqs _
not seen) states basic line to be taken and directs that it be pushed
at all levels Hilfsman requested Hqs send companion telegram to station
point out this is one technique to bring about surfacing of where &nd
who real power is Pressing this line could maximize possibility of obtain- 1
ing US 0 objective_ Even if it does not succeed , it can substantially
assist in identification of alternate or successor leadership with necessary
P
drive abilities and ambition to incorporate in our overall contingency
planning and serve as focus of build-up program_ Hqs will coment erd fn
SOURCE STAFF
1967 I.G_ Report , Part C RD
FILE: DATE: 6/28/75
Cage
PERSONS /ENTITIES DATES: CATEGQRIES
HLLSMAN Roger (Assistant
Secretary of State for Far 8/22/63 Diem
Eastern Affairs)
CTA L8Le 242
OCCURRENCE;
CARD #2
'IWp SeuLae )
further detail after seeing message if necessary but passes above at
Hillsman S request _ # (3)
STAFF SOURCE
RD 1967 I.G . Report
3
C
DATE :
FILE 6/28/75
Cage
yet
ing
'20.3 part
==================================================
Page 52
==================================================
C 0J 4 DA'ELS CATEGORIES CTA
RICHARDSON John (CIA station 8/22/63 Diem
chief in Saigon)
Saigon Embassy `
FRJx
DIEM
OCCURRENCE
VLCL
On August 22, 1963, in: a CTA cable from Saigon (SAIG 0208) Chief of
L
Station RICHARDSON
M:
forwarded his personal views concerning alternate
leadership Recent events have made us feel that hope for civilian
government to replace DIEM administration is unrealistic The solution
seems even more improbable than ever before Would appear that we should
have either DIEM or military junta - View time factor have not coordinated 1 this message with embassy but we have exchanged views fully on subject mat-
M: ter _ (3-4)
8
SOURCE
STAFF
1967 I.G_ Report _
2
part C , Ap 34
RD
FILE: DATE_
35555237= 3==243 IA4
6/28/75'
PERSONS/ENTITIES DATES CATEGORIES
HILLSMAN ROGER
IODGE_ HENRY CABOT 22 or 23 August DIEM
CONEIN
1963
OCCURRENCE : LODCE arrived on 22 or 23 August_ When he arrived he found that Saigon was
"During this period of these attacks on: the pagodas _ there had been many con-
armed caTp _
of to anybody who Iould listen to them talking about doing SOm
tacts made by a lot people I had talked with different generals &d
thing about doing away with the existing
) 2lth we received & cable which
the one in August I don't recall if' it Was the .23rd or
later been' kow as
the famous ROGER HILLSMAN cable Which practically gave US the go-aheac;
that this type of thing could not continue_ m pp: = 21-22
SeuLek;,
STAFF
SOURCE
R DAWSON
Hearings , SSCI Jure 20 , 1975
)
Conein
nanF:
Cage
regime
==================================================
Page 53
==================================================
1 PERSONS ENTITIES : DATES CA TEGORTES :
CONELN 23 August 1963 DIEM 1
1
OcCURRENCE:
"There was a lot of talk of coups_ We met with generals on different occasic:
0 / I met with them, other people had als0. We had mt with colonels &nd junior officers_ Ar;
Ive anticipated that there would be sOme type of action taken in the latter of' August
p 22
1 VOH S EGRET
8
SOURCE: STAFR
Hearings _ SSCI June 20 , 1975 , Conein RS DAWSON
FILE: DATE:
30 June 1975
PERSONS/ENT I'IES DATES = CATEGQRIES:
HARRTMAN W: Averrel (Undersecretart
of 3tate for Political Affairs) 8/24/63 Diem
HELMS (Deputy Director for Plans , (iA)
RUSK Dean (Secretary_of' State)
SEEcE
Roswell Deputy_Sec
1
of' Defense)
On August 24 1963, in a telephone call from HARRTMAN to HELMS
Gckhak 6
at 2000
hours HARRTMAN outlined to HELMS the substance Of what_eventually turned
out to be Deptel 243 to In notes recorded by HELMS, in to' HELMS query _ "HARRTMAN confirmed that the thrust
of the
t8lia9sconteited
an implicit pullout of American forces and support if the Nhus
were not
ousted_ HARRTMAN said the message had been_cleared Iith Hyannisportl with the Secretary of State and' with Mr GILPATRICX _ 14 (4)
5]
SOURCE
STAFF
1967 I.G- Report
9
C RD
FILE:
Cage
DATE:
6/28/75
part
Saigon _
part p.4
==================================================
Page 54
==================================================
3 PERSONS/EN'PTFIES : DA'TES CATEGORIES :
HILSMAN, Roger (Ass t Sec . State for 1
Far Fastern Aff FE) 25 August 1963 DIEM L
LODGE, Henry Cabot (Amb _ to SVN )
TCCURRENCE
On August 25, 1963, in a cable from HILSMAN: to LODGE (personal) sent via CIA channels
(DIR 63854 ) , there appeared the following message: 1
"State cable sent separately represents agonizing at highest levels Course outlined is
dangerous but al1 agree that delaying clear cut US stand is even more dancerous . It won't
be easy for you, but be assured we will back you &l1 the way ." (5)
1
2
SOURCE
I,G. REPORT 1967 p. 5 STAFF : Dawson
TACt €
FILE: DATE 28.6.75
PERSONS /ENTHPIES : DATES CATEGORIES:
CIA 25 1963
DIEM
LODGE , Henry Cabot
OCCURRENCE
t0 CECAEI
In a CIA cable Saigon (DIR 63855)_ of August 25, 1963, the following ressage appeared:
"FYI CIA not consulted re cable being sent separately
5
which however cleared at highest
levels . In circustances believe CIA must fully accept directives of policy makers and seek:
ways accomplish objectives seek_ While have not seen exact: text understand it invites
LODSE final judgent _ Danger in present course f action appears to be throwing away
bird in hand before we adequately identified birds in bush or songs they may sing Thus
suggest a real search for courses of' action which might retain options in our hands at same
time as taking positive stand rather than waiting for situation to clarify (at which point we
probably unable to affect it.) This boils down to seeking some middle ground for at least
interim period. 1: (7 )
SOURCE : I.G REPORT 1967 p: STAFF : Dawson
Aug:
to
they
==================================================
Page 55
==================================================
EERSONSLENPI'IES: DATES: CATEGORIES
GIARDSON Saigon Chief of Station 25 August 1963 DIEM
General (SVN )
EM
'FRA CIA officer in Saigon
TCCURRENCE _
TAD
QH
SEGFEE
3a CIA cable from Saigon (SAIG 0291) the following message appears on August 25, 1963:
RILF
QF' STATION RICHARDSON reports that GENERAL KHANH requested an: imediate meeting with
'ERA (an officer of the CIA Saicon Station] At the meeting KHANH requested assurances that
18 U.S_ Government would support the VIETNAMESE ARMY if it should move against the DIEM
SCIVE , N (7)
8
8
SQURCE: REPORT 1967
9
p . 7 STAFF Dawson
Pnet €
FILE: DATE 28.6.75
ELEUNSLENTL"LLS DATES CATEGQRIES
CIA 26 August 1963 DIEM
OCCURRENCE
FADrencZ
Jn August 26 1963. in a CIA docunent entitled "QNE_Staff_Memorandu No:_60-63 orking_Paper CIA Distribution ti the following statement
Internal ONE;
appears :
"'On balance _ we believe the best hope for the preservation %f US interests and attainment
of US objectives in South Vietnam lies in the possibi of a coup d 'etat by anti-Conmunist
ationalists with sufficient mili support to obviate prolonged civil war Such night not prove able to salvage the situation and indeed
a group
shan the present regime_ Such 5'
might eventually prove
no better
a development would however enable the US and anti-Comunist nationalist elerents to make a fresh start unencumbered and unhampered by political vast years months and weeks_ In such a fresh start we believe lles
errors of
or the attainment of US interests and objectives in South m1
the viable hope
Vietnam . (8)
SOURCE I_ ( RLFORT 1967
2
Part C , p. STAFF
FTLF
UH ,
I.G
Only,
lity
tary
only
==================================================
Page 56
==================================================
4
PERSONS ENTITIES: DATES CATEGORIES: 8
SELMS Richard LODCE_ Henry Cabot DTEM
"CARIER
3:
Gen Marshall KENNEDY John F_ 26 August 1963
B4 CIA
FFEL ADM . Harry D.
(CINCPRC;) 243
IOE SECEER
8 OCCURRENCE
an August 26 1963 , HELMS ' record of a Presidential Meet: on Vietnam, is below_ The other
FIA participant was GENERAL MARSHALL CARTER, DDCI
0
h
""The question was raised as to whether there had been such a significant change in the Vietnam
4=
Esituation that it really appeared desirable to dump the NHU' s and possibly DIFM himself Prin-
"cipal points discussed were ADMTRAL FELT' s concern over the dangers inherent in the current
#S action in South Vietnam; the fact that LODGE had not seen DIEM to discuss the future role
of the NHU' s; the meaning of the phrase give direct support to military comanders in DEPTEL
243; the question of success and what would happen if the action taken: over the weekend
failed_ The PRESTDENT asked for another session on August 27 with participants to present
biographic data on SVN personalities and a contingency for the succession." (8-9)
SOURCE I.G. REPORT 1967 Part € pp .
STAFF Dawson
DATE 28.6,75
FILE:
13 UlvS/ ENL_
CIA
RICHARDSON_ KHIEM DATES
CONEIN 3 MINH
CATEGORIES:
SPFRA 26 1963
DIEM ~Z-OEOITEDE
In a CIA cable
from
KJiGHARDSON reports the on 26, 1963 (SAIG 0330) ,
Fep SEGIIET
said he was: of
not yet
CONEIN/SPERA
9
and KHIEM said approaches to
he would
to
Eenerals .
In check with MINH, "
(9)
SOURCE
I.G_
1967 Part C,
P: 9
STAFF
PIEM
ing
ion;
plan key
8-9
I'TIES
John
Aug-
Saigon August
KHANH results
the
readv
the
have essence
REPORT
FILE
Dawson
==================================================
Page 57
==================================================
2
PERSONS/ENTITIES : DATES: CATEGORIES :
1
KENNEDY John F HARKINS (MAc/V)
HELMS (BD/P)
CIA 27 1963
COLBY
3
William DEPTEL 243
CARTTR:
1
IODE ,
3;
Henry Cabot
"ericol
OCCURRENCE:
On August 27 1963, there was a Presidential Meeting on Vietnan_ The record Was taken by
HLMS or by COLBY for the CIA, and the other CIA participants were CARTER and HELMS:
"The PRESIIENT stated that a coup should not be attempted unless it would be successful and
asked whether we coulcl turn back at this point . The PRESIDENP asked that the judgment of 1
LODE: and HARKTNS be sought on the prospects for victory or defeat of a coup A cable was
drafted asking if they still agreed with their concurrences to' DEPTEL 243." (9-10)
5
SOURCE I.G_ REPORT 1967 Part C , pp . 9-10 STAFF Dawson
DATE 28.6.75
FILE=
C
LEI TEL 243
LTLS CATEGORIES :
DEPTEL 256
KENNEDY John F 27 1963 DIEM
LOLXE: Cabot HARKINS
John (Comander MACA)
OCCURRENCE=
T@D_SECQEI
In a State telegram to (DEPTEL 256)_
5 on August 27_ 1963 , the following
"Examination of
message appeared:
reports to date gives considerable Proceeding from the concept outlinee
in DEPTEL 243
but.leaves unanswered questions_
appraisal of present prospects_
Highest
as mnodified_ now desire your prompt interim of developing situation_
>
presently favor
authority asks_whether you and J[ARKTINSF
in light
to give you all possible operation as currently planned by generals 3
Vle that developing eVidence makeort in best available course but
not to insist
wish
makes it wise to modify:: M (10) On any decision
SOURCE
I.G REPORT' 1967_ Part €, p. 10 STAFF
Dawson
FILE:
Aug.
TMR'
Aug-
Henry
Saigon
hope
==================================================
Page 58
==================================================
4 "EGUNS/ kiv1'fLES; DAEES : CATEGORIKS
GEN _ DINH 81 Zugust _ 63 DIEM
8 1171/63
EOUNSELLER NFIU:
OCCURTRNCE
'Tup SECREU
L
Dinh
5 on approximately 31 August had the audacity to inform both President
Diem and Counseller Nhu that; he wa S their savior and requested a ministerial
post for himself .
1
8
SQUKCk Hearings
>
S.S.C.Ij
5:
6/20/75, Corein, Exhibit one ,
8FAj}
Dawson
pages 12-13 .
PILE: DATE: 6/30/75
ZXiegrr ELUNSZEN"L"IES:
RICHARDSON,
3
John DATES =
28 1963
CATEGORIES =
DIEM
OCCURRENCE:
7 August 28
9
RICHARDSON
CEAI
Si
reports in & CIA cable from RFT 070 tuation here has reached "(SAIG 0363)
that able to launch their point of
no return:
iance to win _ We al1
operations_
we believe cenerals are_neutralized
done on our part
ubdedstand that theeefeoet will act and 'that before
must be T (10) must succeed and a good that whatever needooto
SOURCE
I.G_ REPORT 1967
2 C, p 10
STAFF
'ILE:
DATE:
Aus:
1963,
Saigon
4ins
Unless the
they
they have done_
Part
Dawson
==================================================
Page 59
==================================================
8 PEkSONS/ENLIIES:
EXECUTTVE COMITTEE
DATES : CATEGORIES
TLMS Richard
#ARKINS 29 1963 DIEM
CIA
ENNEDY John F
OCCURRENCEE
TMp Sichz
t a NATIONAL SECURTTY COUNCIL EXECUTTVE
F
a record taken by DD/P HELMS ,
shows COBtITIEE meeting on Vietnam on August
1963,
"Ihe consensus was that HARKINS should confirm to the were bona fide and represented the views of
Eenerals that the approaches from CIA
dettes uilotaation
was needed on what the
the US government There was agreement that
was: Iilitarily feasible-
A
generals Were in fact planning to do
and whether
QRESIDENTIAL approval - 1 (12)
telegram giving the
sense of' the was drafted for
(Other CIA participants were not identified. )
(12)
SOURCE
I.G REPORT 1967
3:
Part C. > p. 12 SPAFF Dawson
FILE: DATE : 28.6.75
PERSONS/ENFITIES : DATES : CATEGORIES
KENNEDY JOHN F BUNDY McGeorge
RUSK
3
Dean NSC Exec _ Com . 28 1963 DIEM:
McNAMARA , Robert LOLE , Henry Cabol
TAYLOR , Maxwell HARKINS John
TQW
OCCURRENCE
On: August 28 1963, the PRESIDENT met privately With RUSK McNAMARA_ TAYLOR and McGEORGE
BUNDY . He reported to the of the NSC EXECUTIVE COMITTEE merely that three teleerams
were being; sent to_Saigon: a personal message to LODGE from' the PRESTDENT a general message
from the DEPARTIMENI to the AMBASSADOR , and a telegram from 'TAYLOR to HARKINS (11)
(This is reflected in notes taken by HELMS (DD/P) of the NATIONAL SECURTLY CQUNCIL: EXECUTIVE
COMMITTEE meeting on Vietnam . Other CIA participants are not identified _ ) (11)
SOURCE: I.G_ REPORT 1967
5
Part C., p. 11 STAFF; Dawson
FILE: DATE: 28.6.75
LNSC
Aus;
29 ,
meeting
Aug
rest
==================================================
Page 60
==================================================
4} Ln4144 Lo DOIINSON, RUSK DATES : CA'TEGORIES
2
Lyndon B. McNAMARA 30 1963 HFIMS
BUNDY
DIEM_
GPER
(OLBY
3 OCCURRENCE :
E4w 6f CEEI
August 30_ 1963
3
there was a VICE PRESIDENTTAL
WZ
apd COLBY participating.
The record is provided
meeting on Vietnam;
with HELMS _ CARTER ,
2 by C/FE COLBY which shows
that
"RUSK referred to
recent cable traffic and said that
Mth or what were planning_ McNAMARA
he was not even sure whom we were dealing
tte {enerals ever did
have a plan_
pointed out that there was some question whether
~hat never said did.
BUNDY said he had re-read the earlier traffic and noted
LEkely at this stage and: that
inGunotheRTe said he believed that the general 8 coup was not ;He attack
on the Buddhist
templeanotbeN week we will be approximately where
we were: before
2@fore the GROUP and whether the
BUNDY suegested
we consider additional
cont ingencies assumption that NFIU is ipossible is well founded _ #1 (13)
SOURCE: I.G REPORT' 1967 Part C.
3: p. 13 STAFF
Dawson
FILE:
DATE: 28.6.75
PERSONS/ENTITIES DATES : CATEGORIES :
JOFINSON
9
Lyndon B HARKINS
COLBY CARTER 31 1963 DIEM
RUSK HEELMS
McNAMARA
IODE
TMP SFRPST
OCCURRENCE
At a VICE PRESIDENTIAL meeting on Vietnam, on August 31 , 1963,
a record C/FE COLBY reflects
that
"RUSK suggested we: look at precisely what in the Vietnam situation made us think of a coup 'and what might be done to improve conditions in Vietnam_ McNAMARA suggested the first re- guirement was reestablishment of comnunication between LODGE and HARKINS RUSK directed
that 3 telerram be prepared making suggestions as to what we might ask the GVN
to do I} (1l)
DDCI CARTER and DD/P HELMS.also participated. )
SOURCE :
STAFF I.G REPORT' 1967
3
Part C , p. 14 Dawson
Aug.
they
the;y they
Aug-
by
for Saigon
==================================================
Page 61
==================================================
#PERSONS/ENTI'QIES
DATES : CATEGQRIES
IGKINS 31 1963 DIEM
HGEM
@Q [
QDGE;
~OCCURRENCE
P
TMd_SFCQGT
nAugust 31
2
1963, in the Saigon Station's chronology of August 1963 coup activities, the lowing report appears:
8
JENERAL HARKINS was authorized to meet with KHTEM to give KHIEM assurances of USG backing_
HEM showed] a reluctance to talk and suggested that HARKINS with GENERAL MZM_ KHTEM
punented that MLN had called off the planning and was working on other methods which KHTEM
21dl not describe KIITEM further stated that the generals were not ready as they did not have
nbueh forces under their control HARKINS decided not to give KHIEM assurances which he had
een authorized to impart _ LODCE approved HARKINS decision on 31 August after HARKINS re_ prted. 1 (13)
SQURCE :
I.G: REPORT 1967_
)
Part C. p. 13 STAFF Dawson
FILE: DATE: 28.6.75
PERSONS/ ENTIPIES : DATES CATEGORIES
Fal1 1965 Diem
State Dcpartment NcCone
Jle {cnse Dcj)tmcnt
OCCURRENCE :
Colby statcd tlat the 91 in this situation Tve were 'having almost daily
mectings with senior 0 [ficials in the CIA , State Departvucnt Dcfensc
j)ar tment and] S0 forth jn thc hasenent 0 f the Thite Nouse thcre H;I &
TO Question that this WaS national policy and hanuae out xat these
mectinss thcse Ive )*€ thc meetings at Jrhich Nr NcCone and I argued Vcry
strongly that Iv@ should n0t move against the J)iem government WC s hou lkl
cont inue to work with it. 11 Fage 36 Tad Ceadct
Aue;-
meet
[)c -
Anc/
red
==================================================
Page 62
==================================================
3 PERSONS/ENLI'IES: DATES : CATEGORIES
CONEIN Fall 1963 DIEM 1
OCCURRENCE
CONEIN stated that; there was dissidence within the coup group , the people who
Were going to pull the coup and one general didn t like: the other general_ The best way I
can describe It_ 1f you had three Vietnamese generals sit and talking to you, one genera)
would talk, walk out of the room to go to the I john" two would tell yoU don t trust that
one' and finally the one who had, out-waited the other there would be one left , and he
would don't trust those two_ p : 31
1
8
TOp SECRET
SOURCE: STAFF
Hearings SSCI
}
June 20 , 1975
9
Conein R. DAWSON
FILE; DATE
July 1 , 1975
PERSCNS/ ENTIPIES DATES : CATEGORIES
COLBY:
Fall 1963 DIEM
IODGE
9
HENRY CABOT
NATIONAL SECURTTY` COUNCIL
STATZ DZPARTWENT
QCCURRENCE: COLBY stated that "I would say that the embassy's position
3
the politi
secticn and the ambassador was much mr synpathetic to the prposition that the war coul'
not success fully be conducted with President DIEM still in power without a major change in
his style of operation_ However_ there is an additional factor_ this which was: the publie
pressure On the policy levels of our goverment in Washington, and the United States and
think this public pressure was felt particular by the people in the NATIONAL SECURTTY COUN'
and by the people in the STATE DEPARINENZ 0 p 61
70p SECHET
3OURCE: STAFF
R_ DAVISON
ting
two ,
say ,
cal
==================================================
Page 63
==================================================
4
Lacovs
/EnTIrIFS DATES CA TEGORIES
( OLBY Genziel Haekis
Fall 1963 DIEM EIoDGE
#c
NSC
1
stated
40 #OC CURRENCE: Mr _ COLBY that : "The Defense Department was alst totally in a position th
Sthe
wars in the countryside that the countryside seems to be going along reasonably well
that this (DIEM'$ continuance in office) is an urban problem, urban political problem whici
should not interfere with the min things going on- This was true of the Secretary and 1
General HARKINS out there and the Joint Chiefs her and S0' forth" P. 62
3
T0? #ECEiE?
SOURCE :
STAFF R_ Dawson
Hearings , SSCI, June 20
9
1975, Colby
DATE: 1 July 1975
FILE:
PERSONS/ENTIPIES DatES: CATEGORIES :
NHJ
Fall 1963 DIEM
LODGE , H.(
COLBY
OC CURRENCE: CLBY S tated in response to a question as to whether there was any serious
attempt to persuade DIEM 'to leave office voluntarily that : "IThere had certainly been dis-
cussions to have NHU Leave Vietnam at various times But_ "there was almost no direct
contact between
our ambassador LODGE &nd President DIEM, very little contact I P 66
TOP SFARET
==================================================
Page 64
==================================================
#FERSONS/ENTITIES: DATES : CATECORTES
COLBY 1
Fall 1963 DIEM
NSC
5
0 STATE_DEPARTMENT
0 FPCCURRENCE: COLBY stated that the public pressure that was brught upon or was felt by
the NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL and by the people in the STATE DEPARTENT was "one of distasi
#T for President DIEM_ p . 61
1
2
Bu? SESIkE)
SCUFCE: STAFF R. DAHSON
Hearings_
9
SSCI June 20 , 1975, Colby
ILI DATE: 1 July 1975
PERSONS/ENTITIES: DATES CATEGORIES_
COLBY Fall 1963 DIEM
PRESTDENT KENNEDY
GENEERAL KRULAK
MR . MENDELHAY
"OCCURRZNCE:
COLBY stated that: "The most dramatic way in which this was posed this has
been described publicly a number of times Tas that at one time, particularly with the
frustrating period the President
(Kennedy)
faced with these two strong positions_
5
he sent
two officers
$ one a General Krulak, who was an assistant to Secretary McNamara and a Nr
Vende vho had formerly been the political counsellor in Saigon_
5
'Saigon for about
five aays to: make an assessment on the spot and came back to the carera ro; and: one
sat on one end of the room and one sat on the: other and General Krulak first said he had bx;
to 20 provinces and talked to 20 provinces and 30 military chiefs and al1 that sort of thir:
and the war business (was ) going on basically and there were some problems , but the thing"
was that seemed to have a strategy and seemed to be moving along on it , then
Mendelhay said he went to three cities end talked to lots of civil servants and political
people and al1 the rest of it and ther: was a general feeling that the cause hopeless be-
cause there was SO much distaste for President DIEM &nd s0 much opposition and the genera:
feeling that the war could not be Jvon. And the President , of" course
3
looked at them and
SQURCE:su}ad 464 UJ;} 4? t 75z Sanic Zountyy? #nd #e STAFF
Hearings_
2 SSCI June 20 1975 Colby
aaswer ($ d.
9' 9 { xkel ut tujo dfkeot R DAWSON
RTI F nam
lhay to
they
they they
fsnn>
{keyt
Thel
==================================================
Page 65
==================================================
3 rbhSuivS/LN 'LEles: DALLS CAECOkLES:
Tonthat 9/65
Htx
p6
Tinlx
TOP SECBE
3
JCCURRENCE 8
@cin stated that Diem anl Nhu did, not . Uderstand Dini ' $ role 2$ 2 slouhle
#cnt: I)ie '01" Nhu hal planed to have 2 Bravo i ana 2 Bravo TT that Diem
8 Nlw 1ou] d Jwave thcir Own Coun and 80' dJown to Vonatau 4$ if they werc
Scaning and Lhere Wotld inediately be 01 counter-Coup) Lo bing Hicm 3 -all
0 Kstignted by t back to poler by wopu]ar acc]amation So O)y1 Nov chcr ]
1 4 ,I < in thc a€ternoon Then troons werc moVin; it Wns nssumedl by jicm j
Nhu that this wa$ part of Diem S nIan Lo hwave a counter cou]) Page 66 -618 .
0
SOURCE: iearings , SSC , Conein
2
June 20 1975 STAFF: Dan S 011
FILE: DATE 7/1/75
PERSONS /ENTITIES DATES CATEGORIES :
CONEIN
DINH September 1963 DIEM
GENERAL DN
HUAN Comanding Officer, Military
OCCUREileemt #tPelet
DON promised DINH that he would personnaly speak to the President On DINH' s
behalf &nd that he would ask that DINH be granted the Ministry of Interior while he DON
would ask for the Ministry of National Defense _ DINH believed that DON had his personal
interest at heart and DON did in fact make such an appeal to' the President to enlarge his
government but made the proposal in such a way that it would have been impossible for DIEM
or NHU to accept _ Deadlines were given DINH was informed that the: President: would hil
the ministerial post_ After the deadlines had passed and DINH had not received what he tho-
was his proper recognition, GENERAL DON and other officers inc_ luding HUAN continued to
lend sympathy to DINH. while DINH was still waiting for his ministerial post. p. 13
SOURCE
Iop SECE}
DAWSON
Hearings
9
SSCI , June 20, 1975, Exhibit 1, Conein
DATE:
Tune 3 1075
Jien
Nco
give
ught
==================================================
Page 66
==================================================
4
PERSONS/ENTITIES DATES CATEGORTES
1
GENERAL MINH
September 1963 DIEM
KHIEM
LODGE tlcari' CABOi
1
DON GENERAL
SEHTXENCE:
During the mnth of September there was still mre talk of coups and at tb;
mnth of September I had been
told by Ambassador LODGE
that I was to monitor COi 7
planing
only That I was to convey any messages I had conveyed messages_to BIG MINH
GENERAL KHIEM on one occasion 1 had met
with GENERAL KHEM and BIG MIV:
on two occasions_
veral occasions I
had met with GENERAL DON &d other military
on another occasion _ On Se 9
leaders ." p . 23
1
3
VUp SEGUUET
STAFF
SOURCE;
R: DAWSON
Hearings
2.
SSCI, June 20, 1975 , Conein
DATE
FILE; 20 June 1975
PERSONS /ENT [T'ILS DATES : CATEGORIES:
RICTARDSON John
DIEM DIEM
NHU 2 Sept _ 1963
ZIA
TApb
ZOL TFHG
SEAREF
OCCURRENCE
on September 2 1963_
5: In a CIA cable from Saigon (SAIG 0523) ,/the I.G REPORT provides the following sumary:
"RICHRDSON cabled a damage assessment He: concluded that DIEM and the NH' s are fully aware
that the USC encouraged the GENERALS to attempt a coup and that CIA was the instrumentality of
this encourasement _ He judged there was an even possibility that all major programs could
EQ forward as in the past He listed as a major dilemia the: Stations future relationships with
COL TUNG He noted his dissatisfaction with TUNG a8 a GVN liaison vehicle through which to
conduct PM programs but noted that; the GVN had: offered no alternative Unless we were willing
to discontinue our' NVN , Laos border and cross-border programs, we must continue to work with
TUNG NOLE: PM programs = paramilitary proprams_
"The: Ties: of Vietnam published charges that the CIA was plotting and [inancing & couj :
and was giving asylum to the chief anti-DIFM Buddhist leader The story was picked up and widely
2layed by the New_ York Daily News the_Chicago Tribune Baltinore_Sun,_&nd other_prominent
SOURCE newspapers (15-16 ) STAFF
Dawson
OOAInn 785
thz
==================================================
Page 67
==================================================
4 "LUSUNSZEN!HLLS DA'ES CA'TEGORLES
KEZNNEDY_ John F DIIM
KLMS NHIU 6 Sept _ 1963 DIEM
CDLBY BUNDY
RUSK MADAME NFUU FFF
4
a PRESTDENTTAL meeting on Viel on September 6, 1963, HELMS' and COLBY provide the fol-
lowing sumary
Susk
stressed the immediate need for direct contact between LODGE and DIEM BUNDY pointed out
ttie necessity of advising LODGE not to have a real show-down with DIEM over NUU at this forth-
coming meeting, as one of IODGGE' s cables indicated he was headed very much: in this direction
EJSK arreed to do this_ The PRESIDENT agreed with the desirability of silencing MADAV NHU but
expressed some doubt that NHU' s participation was as fatal as STATL seemed to say it was RUSK
commented that the COUNTRY TEAM had stated its feeling that NHU must g0 , to which the PRESTDENP
replied that they may have been' operating under directives received from here. # (16)
SOURCE I.G_ REPORT 1967 Part C, p. 16 STAFF Dawson
FILE: DA TE 28.6.755
LRSCCURRENCE
tnam ,
==================================================
Page 68
==================================================
@'LkSUNS/ ENL'4LES: DA'LES CATEGORIES
IZNNEDY
9
John F DIEM
FMS NHU Sept . 1963 DIEM
cEBY BUNDY
USK MADAM NIUU
TOEUTNE
TAD
0
8 ta PRESIDENTTAL meeting on Vietnam, on September 6, 1963, HELMS and COLBY provide the fol-
summary: @
stressed the Imediate need for direct contact between LOLGE and DIEM. BUNDY pointed out
ke necessity of advising LODGE not to have a real show-down with DIEM over NU at this forth-
qging meeting, as one of LODCE S cables indicated he was headed very much in this direction
USK agreed to do thise The PRESIDENT apreed with the desirability of silencing; MADAME NHU but
xpressed some: doubt that NFU S participation was as fatal as STATE seemed to say it was RUSK
Gented that the CQUNTRY TEAM had stated its feeling that NHU must gO , to which the PRESTDENT
'eplied that they may have been operat under directives received from: here #1 (16)
SOURCE: I.G REPORT 1967
3
Part C , p. 16 STAFF Dawson
FILE: DATE: 28.6.75
PERSONS /EN'TT'TIKS DATES: CATEGORIES
Special Forces CIA payents
CIA 8 Sept _ 1963
Col
DJWM
Jell , DAvid
OCCURRENCEE
On' 8 September 1963 wire services In prominent newspapers carried & story that the
Special Forces troops who raided the pagodas on the 21 August were still being
paid secretly by CIA. This story was: atlribuced to: a highly reliable source in
Washington and gave details of support to Col in the amount of $3,000,000
annually of payment .0f$250
T
0o0 on 3 September_ 'The tory was datelined in
9
Washington and in Manila_ David Bell warned in a telcvision interview ihat the
U.S_ Congress might cut back aid to Victnam unless the Diam governent changed
its policy_
SOURCE STAFF:
IG Report 1967 (CIA)
9' P. 17 Dzwson
DATE
1ng
'Tung,
Tung
and
==================================================
Page 69
==================================================
3 PERSONS /ENPITIES DATES : CATEGORIES : Eselek"
Victor Gen. , Mendenhall,Jos . A 10 Sept 1963
1
Counterinsurgency Specialist} UN Adviso;
Joint Chlefs of Staff Bureau Fa- Eastern DIEM
Rusk, Dean Sec Of State Affairs_
McCone 'Oce}HrEHTCE Kennedy JbbnF
Richardson,John
7
At a
Presidential meeting on Vietnam
with Carter and Colby in' attendance the
following by Colby is provided of
the Teeting of September 10, 1963.
General Gr
58G38 bepooley hisPfivdded
in Vietnam. His conclusions: were that the
Nar was going ahead at an ipressive pace &d that the Vietcong war could be won
if current U.8, military &nd socologi programs are continued_ Mendenhall
3
the
State representative who accopanied &7
J:
expressed the vlew that there 1as 1
cotplete breakdown of the Siagon civilian governrent in the security situations In
the provlnces had deteriorated The President asked where the two lemen had been
8
insame country Rusk suggested that the focus: be on what happened in July and August
that reversed the optimistic judgents in May ad June Mr _ McCone talked from a
pezsonevetelegran_which_he_had leceived Richardson recouending against_gy cut in aid.
SOURCE STAFF
IG Report 1967 (CIA)
>
p. 19
Dawson
FILE: DATE
6/27/75
PERSONSLENTITIES DATES: CATEGORIES
Diem
Richardson_
9
Chief of Station CIA Siagon DIEM 10 Sept 1963
OCCURRENCE
On 10 Septciber 1963 in a cable from the CTA station in Siagon (SAIGO760) to
Hashington the following quotation appears: M Am inclined to feel general officers
9 will seek evolutionary accomodation with Diem, (if he perits them to do so)
unless overall situation clearly deteriorates there
is brcakdown of civil 'order or
of governmental machinery or unless war effort
begins to Eo 'backward seriously (despite dainages suf fered since 8 and 21 August
an inclined to believe we should be able to resume successful prosecution of war
in military and civil scctions) do not align myself with the view that USG should
aid 0
SOURCE : STAFF
IG Report 1967 (CIA) p. 19 Daison
cal
eaek
gent_
May
suspend
==================================================
Page 70
==================================================
3
1
PjRSONS /ENi'I'FIKS 241S CA'TEGORIES:
Kennedy John 12 President
CJA 10 Scpt . 1963 DLEM
OC CURRENCE:
1
On 10 September 1963,_ in
an interview by Huntley &d Brinkley the President denied
the eharge that the CIA makes its Own policy_
1
3
SOURCE STAFF
IG Report 1967 (CIA) , p. 19
DATE
Dawson
FILE: 6/27/75
NiES CA'TEGORIES
PE RSONSZENLITTES
Fundy .
Colby DIEM
MeCone 10 Sept 1963-
NeNamarra
Kenedy
9
President
Nalional Securily Council executive Ieeting on Vielna with
OCCURRENCELE At a the CIA, Colby provided the following record: Bundy
Carter and Colby pariicipat for to coordinate press guidance &nd to
stressed the necd to unify U.8 government posture
of following the
control outgolng messages Saigon. He
emphasized the importance
differing views of
President S
guidance on
this delicate problem, in spite of intensly
McNanarra stated
should be done and hOw,
the risk; minimu objeclives
)
and facts
seeing what
Tas
Viroliously against throwing out thls government without
that his position
to exist _ Mr_ McCone comented that the problem
an
alterpative &nnd that toncc Ppearedltoraative
as to hotv to one into pOwer Bundy
Ias not
so Juch the existarce of an must express our: reservatlons
sumarized the President: S
position a8 one in which we
not deal Iith
and misdeeds of Dienn but not be a
position where we can
as to mistakes
him futher
STAFF
SOURCE:
Dawson
ing
to
put
==================================================
Page 71
==================================================
3 PERSONS/ENTITIES: DATES CATEGORIES :
Gichardson
3
John
#eede = General
CIA Station Siagon 11 Sept 1963 DIEM
I
OCCURRENCE:
In a September 1l, 1963 CIA cable from Saigon (SAIG0797) Richardson
that the country team attenpted to agree on & slx page summary cable to answer Eegobled
cable fro the department requesting views The team was unable to agree even on the
First three pages of the summary _ Weede and Richardson dissented on the basis of the
Araft sunary was too sieeping and too negative including definitively about the country
Fon an inadequate basis of data: He said: "in sOnie' Iys we seem to have reached the
moint in the officlal American conunity Ihere if you think we can win with the present
#i are simply not running in the right direction with the majority_
P
SOURCE STAFF
IG Report 1967 (CIA) p. 20 Davson
FILE: DATE 6/27/75
68
PERSONS / ENTITIES DATES : CATEGORIES:
McCone Lodge
Colby Nhu
Rusk 11 Sept 1963 DIEM
Bundy
TCCURRENCE : In a Sepiember 11, 1963 meeting of the National SEcurity Council
Executive Comittee meeting on Vietnam, the record taken by Colby (with McCone also
being present for the CIA) te following appears: "Rusk said he believed that we were
not likely to achieve an independent Vietnam unless we: could elininte Nhu_ At the sanr
time he was not willing to say that Diem #hould go , he aaw no alternative Rusk comnented
that we should work with Lodge on Diem to take over the leadership' and become the
real President McCone sufgested also the desirability of negotlating with Dem . Bundy
read off a CIA suggestion for a process of negotiatjng with Nhu .
SOURCE STAFF
IG Report 1967 (CIA) , p.
FILE DATE : Dawson
aoverninent YOu
real
==================================================
Page 72
==================================================
4 PERSONS/ENTITIES : DATES : CATEGORIES :
>
Ambassador Henry Cabot pdge
11 Sept 1963
DIEM
L
4 grate Foleren from Salgon (SAlGH7B) Lodge provided the following reflectlon
on
Che situatlon: best estimate of the current situation in Vietnam is (a) that
@t is Norsening rapidly; (b) the time has arrived for the U_ S_ to use what effective
Ranctions it has to bring about the fall of the existing governent and the installation
8f another; and (c) that intensive study should be given by the best brains of the
Government to all the details, procedures and variants in conncection with suspension
tf Qf aid.
N
SOURCE : STAFF
IG Report 1967 (CIA) p. 21 Dawson
FILE: 2ATE
6/21/75
PEixSOHSZENLIIES DATES CATECOBIES :
NcCone [gun
Coloy Hillsman
Kennedy , John: F_ Tung DJEM
MeNanarra Diem 11 Sept 63
Lodge
OCCURRKNCE: In a Presidential meeting on Vietnan with the CIA parlicipants
being MeCone and Colby the record by Colby reflects that McNeniarra pointed out that
Lodge has little contact with Diem and has not been out of' Saigon- Mr McCone: coirented
that he believed that we should Iove 'cautiosly
>
that we should talk seriously to Diem
and that Lodge should be to visit the countryside to obtain a more realistic
view of the effects of suspending aid Mr _ McCone al:s0 suggested that another approach
Ie rrade: to Nhu L to seek his cooperation ina departure The President asked whether we
had carefully studied the detail effects of cuts: in aid (as proposed in_ a paper prepared
Hillsan) It was evident that; the effects had not been studies The President
byked}bodaand
CIA to analyze the Hillsran paper_ He also asked that a telegram be sent
to Lodge asking him to try to reduce the press leakage from Saigon and to establish soe
Teal contact with Diem_ Any current_plans for aid negotiation should be stalled, ard the
PresidenuwcEould be WeTl inroried or any steps taken tn tnts contF YTAEEzucias-the
inJowngo inioTvinp CTA navent to Col Tung last week.
"My
urged
==================================================
Page 73
==================================================
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HI 50955 DocId:32423615 Page 73
8
==================================================
Page 74
==================================================
3
PKRSOBS /ENTTF FRS DAES CATEGORTES
1
tbel%st;an, David
0
Cone John , DCI 15 Sept . 1963
3
Jjgon Stalion DIEM
0
L
15 Sopcemeri596}
Halberstam stated that the chief' of the Central Intelligence
7 #eency favors all out support for the present reglme but that almost all other mmbers
of his staff are enbbittered over the 'raids in the pagodas _ They also feel their
Zhief close association with Nhu while necessary
9
has severely daaged intelligence
rathering.
2
SOURCE STAFF
Dawson
IG Report 1967 (CIA) p. 23
DATE
FILE 6/27/75
PERSONS/ENTITIES: DATES: CATEGORIES
Richardson, John
Diem
16 Sept 1963 DIEM
OCCURRENCE
In a CIA cable from Saigon (SAIG0922) of 16 September 1963 Richardson replied to
Washington S requestfor his Judgent On
the desirability and feasibillty of certaln
ideas as Washington was then in: the course of construct an agreed plan. He:
cabled: "We must go on trying to win the war with current admnistratlon for as long
as it persists in power (we should not attempt publicly to achieve objectives with
respect to GVN with probability of attainment 1s vlrtually nil) we cannot covertly
tinker wlth Or
engineer coup unless general situation is reasonably perpitious
and if we are unable to establish necessary working contaet with Vietnamese leaders
willing and able to do the job wlth necessary mans_ (Agree we should carefully
explore and perhaps carefully experiment with graduated measures designed to pressube
Diem, within context of persuading him to take steps neededh These measures would be
more effeftive if are
liited to practical ad acheivable objectives.)"
SOURCE STAFF
IG Report 1967 (CIA) p.24
Dawson:
ing
they
==================================================
Page 75
==================================================
4 PERSONS / ENTITIES : DATES : CATEGORIES :
Richardson, John 1
Diem
16 Sept 1963 DIEM
OCCURRENCE
" In a CIA cable from Saigon (SAIG0922) of 16 September 1963 Richardson replied to
Washington S request for his judgnent on the desirability and feasibility of" certain
ideas
9 as Washington was then in the course of constructing an agreed plan. He
cabled: "pe must go on trying to win the war with current adninistralion for as long
as it persists in pOlver (we should not attenpt publicly to achieve objectives Tith
respect to GVN with probability of attainent 1s virtually nil) we cannot covertly 1
tlnker with or' engineer coup unless general situation is reasonably pcrpitious
and if we are unable to establish necessary working contaet with Vietnarnese leaders
: willing and able to do the job with necessary means (Agree we should carefully
explore and perhaps carefully experinent wth graduated measures designed to preessure
Diem, Iithin context of persuading him to tale steps needed_ 'These . measures Iould be
more effeftive 1f are liited to practical and acheivable objectives. )"
SQURCE STAFF
IG Report 1967 (CIA) p. 24
Dawson
FILE: DATE
6+27i75
PERSONS /ENTITIES : DATES CATEGORIES
Smith, David R
CIA Actlng Chief after 5 Oct 1963
Sept 17 1963
Richardson, John Lodge
DIEM
Dunn_
9.
Mike
ZCCURRENCE
In a mmoranda for the record prepared by Helms on
WJbala
"Smith (discuss with m ) reports that Lodge wanted
September 1963 = he" reported
(Mike Dunn) had told
to rid of Mr_ John Richardson
Conein that Lodge was to rid of Richardson (On one occasion Dunn asked Conein, 1 do _you think that Dave. Smith
can run the stations for
a temporary period while
a new station chlef is sent out here?' #i
SOURCE: STAFF
IG Report 1967 (CIA) p. 24 Dawson
FILE: DATE
6/27/75
they
get
get
being
==================================================
Page 76
==================================================
4
PERSONS /ENTI'TIES DATES: CATEG ORIES
Smith, David R. 1
CIA Aeting Chief after 5 Oct 1963 Sept 17 1963 DIEM 3: Richardson, John Lodge
Dunn
>
Mike Saigon Station
OCCURRENCE
7
In a rremoranda for the record prepared by Helms on September 1963, he reported
"Smith (discuss with Tne ) reports that Loge wanted to
rid of Mr John Richardson
(Mike Dunn) had told Conein that Lodge was to rid of Richardson' (On one
occasion Dunn asked Conein, you think that Snith can run the stations for
a temporary period whlle a new station chief is being sent out here?' M
1
6
SOURCE: STAFF
IG Report 1967 (CIA) p. 24 Dawson
FILE; DATE :
'6/27/75
PERSONS_ ENTITIES DATES : CATEGORIES :
Lansdale = Major General Rusk, Dan
McCone
5
John
Sept 19, 1963 DIEM
Lodge Henry Cabot
Richardson John
SEG
OCCURRENCE
In & personal letter from McCone to Lodge it was stated that "I was told by Dean Rusk
that you proposed thet Gen . Lansdale(replace Richardson a8 Chief of Station) I wish
to emphasize the agency wlll reorlent the Salgon station any practical way to meet your
desires _ Personnel including the ~station chief can be replaced Lansdale would
not be acceptable to the organization or to me personally if the declsion is
abandon all hope of working with the regime then Richardson probably should be replaced
We have' no current intelllgence nor resulting estimate in hand which could lead
us to conclude that the present reglme can be disposed of or that there exlsts a
replacement regime whlch would be better. This is not however to say that a coup may
occur even before you receive this letter
SOURCE
STAFF
IG Report 1967 (CIA) p. 25 Dawson
Dtt D'.
get
get
do' Dave
to
==================================================
Page 77
==================================================
8
1 PERSONS/KNQITES: DNTES: CA"TFSORIKS
Jjge Tcnry Cabot
Kerriedy , Jolu F. Sept. 19, 1963 DJEM 7
OCCURRENCE:
657
On September 19, 1963 in a state telegram from Saigon (544) Lodge stated to the Presidert
that 1 I apree that no good opportunity for action to rerive the prosent goverrent in
the inenediate future is apparent and that we should therefore
9
do Jhatever we can as 1 an interim mcasure pending such eventualily .
Frankly
9
I see no opportunity at all for
Ii substantative changes _
3
SQURCE STAFF
Dawson
IG Report 1967 (CIA) p. 24-25 DATE:
FILE: 6/25/75
PERSONS /1NFTTIES DA'TES CATEGORIES:
Lansdale Major General Rusk, Dean
McCone
John
Saigon Slation Sept 19, 1963 DZEM
Lodge Henry Cabot
Richardson John
OCCURRENCE
In a personal letter from McCone to Lodge it: was stated that "I was told by Dean Rusk
that you proposed thal Gen. Lansaale(replace Rlehardson as Chief of' Station) I wish
to emphasize the agency wlll reorient the Saigon station any practical way to meet your
desires Personnel including the station chief can be replaced Lansdale would
not be acceptable to the organization or to me personally if the decision is to
abandon all hope of working with the then Richardson probably should be replaced
We have no current Intelllgence nor resulting estimate in hand which could: lead
US: to conclude that the present regime can be disposed of _ or that there exists a
replacement regiln which would be better This is not however to say that 3 coup may
M Occur' even before you receive this letter
#QURCE; STAFF;
IG Report 1967 (CIA) p . 25 Dawson
regime
==================================================
Page 78
==================================================
4 PERSONS/ENTITIES DATES: CA'FHGUHba:
McCone 1
CIA Subcomittee on
House Armed Services
Sept . 23, 1963 DIEM
1
teaber; ?3,01963,
the icCone briefed the
CIA Subcommittee of House Ared Services
47 On September 23,
urging a
slow cautious approach to the problem of
He told them that the ageney Ias: replacement for the then
ousting the Diem
regine and that there appeared to be no:
current that was
capable of' running the government _
1
3
STAFF
SOURCE
IG Report 1967 (CIA) p. 25 Dawson
DATE:
FILE:
6/25/75
PERSONS/ENTITIES: DATES : CATEGORIES
NHU October 1963 DIEM
DINH
COLONEL TUNC
OCNHENCE
: DINH' s desire to beconee a Minister was greater Ehan his allegiance Eo Prestdent
He became the actual key to the succe8s of" the coup His facile and at times
brillian€ bendj
was used to the general 's advantage in that GENERAL DINH convinced President
DIEM that he_
General DINH, along with COLONEL TUNG should be given blanket orders to be
force DIN also convinced TUNG to mve four of his principal airborne con-
a counter-cou
on outside of' Saigon on 29 and 30 October, SO that these troops
panies on a bootless operatic
DINH is the Minister of' Security in the provisional
would not be present on 1 November.
government p. 13 TOp SECRET
STAFR SOURCE :
R DAWSON
Hearings SSCI June 20, 1975 , Exhibit 1, Conein
DATE:
regime
==================================================
Page 79
==================================================
8
PERSONS [ENTITIES : DATES CATECORIES 1
CONEIN October 1963 DIEM
1
OCCURRENCE: CONEIN stated that he looked uon his Job as conveying orders from his aF
bassador to the people that were planning the coup and to monitor those people who were
planning the coup and to as much information SO: that our government would not be caught
with their pants down He did "agree not to thwart the coup and in fact to supply economic
and military assistance if the coup succeeded, but did not conceive his objective the en-
couragement or the promotion of the coup nor' did he ever discuss the possibility of' dis_
couraging the coup _ CONETN stated that if the United States had now show any interest or
2
remained neutral in opposing DIEM, there would have been a coup anyway _ pp 38-41
IIP SECRET
SOURCE : STAFF
R, DAWSON Hearings
5
SSCI June 20
5
1975, Conein
DATE:
FILE July 1, 1975
PERSONS/ENTITIES DATES CATEGORIES:
DINH
MINH Early October DIEM
DON
1963
COLONEL CO _ Dinh's Dputy
OCCURRENCE :
When the ministerial
for DINH did not materialize by early October the
coup principals
realized that they had DINH actively thinking agalnst the regime It is
evident
com staterents during the series of meetings with GENERAL DON_ and GENERAL MINH dur_
the month of' October that still did not trust DINH but felt they had compromised
him sufficiently with his troops and, if necessary to eliminate DINH 1f he showed any sign
of- compromising the generals DINH was surrounded by officers who surveilled him 24 hours a
day including CO
3:
his deputy _ P. 13
TOP SECRET
STAFF
SOURCE
R DAWSON
get
1
post
they ing
==================================================
Page 80
==================================================
3
PERSONS/ENTTTIES: DATES : CATEGORIES : 1
CONEIN
CLBY WTLLIAM October 1963 DIEM 3
2
OCCURRENCE COLBY stated that "The CLA officer (CONEIN) received a call on October 30
1
(1963) to come over and join the general staff and come to the mee and essentially
sat with them as they continued the operation from thereon. They didn't moVe to the de_
cision to run the coup ad he sat in the headquarters during mst of the tim He went home
#t hat one point _
2
etc .
8
3
TOp SELAET
SOURCE STAFF
Hearings, SSCI
2
June 20
J
1975 , Colby, pp. 1l-12 Ra DAWSON:
DATE:
FILE: 29 June 1975
ting
==================================================
Page 81
==================================================
3
PERSONS/ ENTITIES : DATES ATEGORIES: 1
Conein Oct . 2 , 1963
Gen . Don
DIEM
3 Gen . Duong Van Minh
7h Gen . Ton That Dinh
DiOCOURREICE
@p-SECRZ
1
Ccnqi doernl Don 91 't10 %t NlifzW Wlio 42
€oilcwin #lgrificent @WUnefi: (0) wnesal 14613 Fn
#bnd 4eired 2 priv462 0v6mto Mitb Ccnef0;
() Ckral #oi 32601+ Din (C.7msndins Genexal) Jri C
{cris) Teelf34 'h10 hadl hxen cupsed b} 14em Coverc-
w246 duing Jis 02u872 n8 Milicer {wror 02
P
&i6c8 30q0n 21 Aerus en0 13 3 1053;
(0} Cewer2ls,80r40 248 Mcnd} 82 801,84M003 1063,
mondtto] Y6wwom} 2 Presidont rs 00 &8rd
{#14 coitian3 101 46Xf0rmnt 44iis/?n Wivl CONTINUED ON NEXT
4J 0c} crpm:t biz 00 Docr; 04) Ion 6900 #ha}
CARD
SOURCE Hearings _
2
SScI, 6/2o/{5 , Conein , Ezhibit One. p - STAFF Dawson
RILE:
DATE : 6/30/75
PERSONS /ENTITIES DATES CATEGORIES
OCCURRENCE:" TOTINUED FROM LAST CAFD
[ep SECAEA
tis Gnerald IU48 362 2 le; (2} 1'ior 1,5
843M01302 bnb % 80208 coi4enac0 0 % "0 Aus"st, an
0090-ree42m v1a00a.0n82 eivfllon 034 Coungeller
No Diun ZT} #i& {42 fWWriei "82 coutaciing
vocious 060843"280 40 Edwe 50 #u0nn0 2 e10:
Icn DFR; #46 39 Ma #nd sromn 0 1311 preyared
MbJ 294 Sumicnw #W6ed in squ 2l01648;
Coned X Ixuge 12 20& 0.1 00 Jisi_
SOURCE: STAFF
Ngo
#
WGey
J
4"
==================================================
Page 82
==================================================
3 PERSONS _ ENTITIES : DATES CATEGORIES:
AM2ASSADOR LODGE 1
CONEIN
10/3/63
DIEM
GEN DUONG VAN MINH
QCCURRENCE
Iop SZGR2,
L
Dpeuo Iwr 0023Wv4 Coneln 6 #eing 7ith
{eier3i Cuong Jen Win
1
6
SOURCE
Hearings
$
S.S.C.I., 6/20/75, Ccre Exhibit
STAFF Dawson
p:
FILE
DATE: 6/30/75
PERSONS/ENTITIES DATES C ATEGORIES
McNamarra
Lodge
McCone Oct 3 7 4,1963 DIEM
Richardson
Smith
OCCURRENCE:
CAPF
On October 3, Lodge wrote a personal letter to' McCone stating that "I_ agree wlth what
I understand McNamarra said to you The time has come for a new face_ but I also think
of Richardson as a devoted and 3 patriotic American. M On October 4 1963 in a CIA
1 cable from (SAIG1397 ) the following report appeared: m1 it is clear that
Lodge wants a change in chief of station. departing Saigon 18
V5
20 hours In a
coment in the IG report it Is noted that Richardson s departure was: based on a head-
quarters request that he return to headquarters on 'TDY as soon as possIble Upon
Richardson S departure his deputy David R. Smith, became acting chief of station_ ft
SOURCE STAFF
IG Report 1967 (CIA) p. 26
DATE
Dawson
in, One}
Saigon ,
==================================================
Page 83
==================================================
1
PERSONSLENEITIES =
1 LODGE DATES :
CATEG ORIES Dept 6f fbete
MCNAMARRA
TAYLOR 5 Oct 1963
DIEM
L
On.5 Ootober 1963 /
In a states
SEPDFT
instruction that 'the Anbaatedocabhouta Song?n (DEPIEL534)1t was stated
GPN _ Bhould continue as a fourth policy of "cool correctneourtoward
1
8
SOURCE=
IG Report 1967
(CIA p. 30
STAFF
OIi
DATE
PNESONSZENEITIES: DATeS: CAPFGORIES :
MeNwnaria
Lodge
FcCorie Oct 3 44, 1963] DIEM
Richarrlson
Srith
OC &URIENCE :
On October 3, Lodge wrote a personal letter to MeCone stating that: "IS agree with what
I unckerstand McNamarra said to you The time has conke for a new face_ but I also think
of Riehardson as a devoted and a patriotic Arerican I[: On October 4, 1963 in a CIA
cable from Saigon_
5
(SAIG1397) the following report appeared:" it is clear that
Iodge wants a change in chief of station. departing Salgon 18 20 hours: # In: a
colrnlent in the IG report it is noted that Richardson s departure was based on a head-
quar-ters request that he return to headquarters on TDY as soon as possible- Upon
" Richardson's departure his deputy David R. Smith, became acting chief of station.
SOURCE STAFF
Dawson: IG Report 1967 (CIA) p. 26 DATE:
his
==================================================
Page 84
==================================================
3
PEIRSONS / EN'TITlLS DATES: CA'EGORIKS: 1
JORXEE
Dept . of' Siate
MCNAj'*A13134 5 Oet 1963 DIEM
'LAYLOR elso
L
OCCURRENCE :
On 5 October 1963 in & slates cable to Saigon (DEPIELS34)it was staled &s a fourth
instruction that the -Abassador ghould continue his policy of W 'cool correctness"toward
GPN
1
2
SOURCE STAFF
IG Report 1967 (CIA p. 30 DATE:
FILE:
PERSONS /ENTITIES : DATES : CATEGORIES:
KENNEDY JOHN F
IODGE = HENRY CABOT DIEM
WHITEIOUSE
Oclober 5,
1963
OCCURRENCE:
In a
White Tlouse cable to Saigon (CAP63560) of' 5 Oct 1963, the following message appears :
It: Presdient today approved recoendation that no initiative should be taken to
any active covert encouragenent to a coup It should be urgent covert effort with
closest security under broad guidance of Ambassador to identify and build contacts with
possible alternative leadership as it appears
SOURCE STAFF:
IG Report 1967 (CIA) p. 30 Dalson
give
==================================================
Page 85
==================================================
1 PERSONS/ENTIPIES:
KENNEDY JOHN F DATES 1 LODGE
>
HENRY CABOT CATEGORIES _
DIEM
OCCURRENCE
October 5,
1963
In a White House
cable
1
any Presdient
Jpprovea LrccorGerda56on %a3 Ot;,
the following alosestives
covert: encouragement
to a
that no
initiative shouda Lbe tesenge appears:
security under broad coup . It should be
urgent
taken to g1ve
possible alternative guldance of Ambassador to covert effort with leadership
a8 It appears_
11
identify and build contacith
with 1
5
SOURCEF
IG Report 1967 (CIA) p.
30
STAFF:
Dawson
Li
PERSONS/ENTITIES: DATES : CATTEGORIES:
Kemedy _ John F
Colby William
Coodity Jiport Program Oct _ 5, 1963 DIEM
McCone
OCCURRENCE
On 5 October there was
a Presidential meeting on Vietnam: The CIA participant was
McCone He provided the following record 'Ihe meeting was held to discuss matters that
becane
the subject of' DEPTEL 5/34 (See later entry of' 5 October:) DCI sald it was the
opinion of' CIA with the exception of' Colby Chief Fareast Division, that fiddling with
the comodity import program as a political lever would be much more likely to create
economic crisis undermining the war effort than: to' scare Dlem and Nhu into a more
an
cocperative attitude because it would seriously affect the confidence and planning
of the
Vietnamzse business commnunity and ckly engender inflatlonary measures at
large of a more serious nature _ It was the concensus of the meeting that some neaningful
political mvements had to be made but exactly what they should be was not determined
STAFF :
SOURCE
Te Renort 1067 (CTA) O) < 27 Dawion
Salgon
today 1963,
only
quie
==================================================
Page 86
==================================================
8
1 PERRSONS / EN'TITkS : PAIES: CA'EGORIES:
SFLEIHI DAVID
CONIZIN Oet 5, 1963 DTEM
LOIXE
MTNH
OCCURRENCE :
Tn a CIA cable from Saigon (SAIG1447) of 5 October 1963, DAVE SMPTH, the Acting Chief of
Stat cabled tbit he had discussed this latest CONEIN/MIN meeting with Ambassador
LODHE &d DCM 'IRULHAHT _ SMITH reported that he had recoiended to Aunbassador LOLGE
N
that do not set ourselves errovacably against the assassignation plot , since 8
the other Lwo allernatives Tiean either a blood bath in Saigon or protracted struggle
4 8 which can rip tle Army and the country asunder _
ElV
SOURCE: STAFF
Dawson
IG Report 1967 (CIA)
2
DATE
FILE: 6/27/75
PERSONS/ENTITIES :
DATES CATEGORIES
Ngo Dinh Conein
Ngo DInh Lodge Oct 5, 1963 DIEM
Diem
Minh, General
GEPPR"
TCCURRENCE
On October 5, 1963 In a CIA Cable from (SAIG1445) it was stated that the meeting with Conein (approved by Ambassador in October) General Minh requested a statement of the U,S, Position with respect to a change in the GVN in the: near future_
He said he did not expect U.S,G _ support of a coup effort but dld need USG as8urances
that USG would not to thwart his plans _ He outlined three possible plans for the
accomplishment of the change of government = (a) assasslnationof Ngo Din Nhu and Ngo
Dinh ein;
3
Prasident Diem in offlce; (b) encirclement of Saigon by various
military unlts; and (c) direct confrontatlon between military units involved in the
coup and loyalist military units _
SOURCE STAFF
IG Report 1967 (CIA) p. 27-28
Dawson
FILE DATE:
on
"ie
p,28
Hhu ,
CAn ,
Salgon
try
Tkeeping
==================================================
Page 87
==================================================
EPERSONS/ENTITIES DATES : CATEGORIES :
@ODGE FENRY CABOI
ZENNEDY _ JOHN F 5 or 6 Oct
KPiswv STEFNET
KENNEDY ROBERT F: 1963
DIEM
2
M CONE , JOHN:
ZOCCURRENCE
H MC CONE recalled a me with President KENNEDY &nd Attorney General Jro8tke
F KENNEDY had with him on or about October 5 or 6 1963. The Attorney General was
rather non-comittal in: the meeting: He and I walked dowstairs together and he sald Jotne
are you sure you are right? And I said I think I am and he said I'm rather surprised
the position you took. And I said_ well_ you didn t dlsagree with it (T) This dis_
eussion had nothing to do with assassinations This was whether we should let the coup go
Qr use our influences not to Then interestingly enough the President sent: a series of ms_
Eages to CABOT LODGE urging that he' d do all that he could to DIEM to change his ways .
CABOT LODGE S first attempt failed and then he was called CABOP LODE was ealled by DIEM' €
3ffice and DIEM said, you tell the President to tell me what he wants me to do and I'11 do
it Unfortunately
)
the forces were surrounding the palace at that very moment and the coup
was: on. It was: a kind of a dramatic little part_of the history of that tragedy
SOURCE STAFF
Hearings
9
SSCI
3:
June 6, 1975, McCone pp 63-64 R: DAWSON
FILE: DATE 29 June 1975
PERSONS/ENTITIES: DATES CATEGORIES
KAHN_ CONEIN , LODGE _ TRUHART
3
WM.
5-7 Oct 1963 DIE
NGO DINH KAHN
SMTTH_
9
DAVID
Top SEGBEL
COLBY WILLIAM, MC CONE JOHN
to the events surrounding the cable from Saigon of 5 Octo-
OCCURRENCE COLBY testified as
ves
irrevocably against the assass_
ber 1963 which reads as follows : "We do not set oursel-
bath in Saigon, Or & pro-
since the other two alternatives mean either a blood
ination and the country asunder _ 0 And the response on
tracted struggle which could rip the army
"MC CONE dtrects that you withdraw
6
October 1963 which COLBY wrote for MC CONE as follows
MC CONE instructions as: we
recomendation to
Ambassador concering assassination under
be in a position to actively condone such course
of action therebe endateariag 60
cannot
COLBY explained that this second message he drafted was
our responsibility therefore
COLBY stated that the assassination of' DIEM' s
ellminate assassination as an alternative
continue: A reply was sent on October 7
other brothers NHU and KAHN_ NGO DINH KAHN were to
directed mean-
to
the MC CONE cable saying that action was taken as 9
from Salgon inn response
informed to withdraw the recommendatlon."
ing that the Ambassador had been SO
STAFF
SOURCE
SSCI, June 20 1975, Colby
3 pp . 12-17 R. DAWSON
Hearings 9
DATE: 29 June 1975
FILE
ting
get
plot
plan
our
==================================================
Page 88
==================================================
8 PERSONS_ ENTITEES: DATES : CATEGORIES :
MCCONE
1
SNDIH
Oct 6, 1963 DIEM
OCCURRENCE
In a CTA cable to Saigon (DTR7366lof" 6 Oct ) the following appears: MCCONE directs
7
that you withdraiv reconinendations fromn Ambassador (concerning assassignation plan)
under MCCONE instructions as we: can not: be inposition actively condoning such course
4i of action and ihereby engaging our responsibility therefore
1
8
SOURCE STFAFF
IG Report 1967 (CIA) , P. 28 Dawson
FILE DATE
6/274/15_
PERSONS /ENHIFIES DATES : CATEGORIES
'TRUEHARI
IODGE
MCCONE
SMTTH Oct 7, 1963 DIEM
TCCURRENCE
In a response to the CLA cable of Oct _ 6, 1963, to Salgon _
)
the station in Saigon
responded (SAIG1463 7 Oct ) "Action taken as directed_ M In addition since ` DCIA
TRUEHART was also present when original recomendation was made specific Withdrawal
recomendalion at MCCONE's instruction was also coriveyed to TRUEHART Ambassador
{1 LODGE corented that he shares MCCONE' $ opinion_
SOURCE: STAFF :
IG Report 1967 (CIA) P. 29 Daison
FILE: DATE
6/27/75
==================================================
Page 89
==================================================
8 PERSONS/ENTITIES: DATES CATEGQRIES :
1 SOHNSON COLBY
Velef6} DIEM
KTLPATRICK SPECIAL GROUP
MCCONE
OCCURRENCE :
7
" On October 8 1963 at a special group meeting the DCI expressed concern that there
9
was
a lack of intelligence coverage during the period when "the U,8. was maintalning
a posture of almost no official contact at top levels 11 They refer to the fact
that NHU and DIEM are not being contacted by ArerLcans Mr MCCONE also referred
"theorientation of (Salgon) station functions_ I; Mr: BUNDY pointed out that"for
to
Americans to resume top level contacts at this time would appear to represent
1
a.
political rapprochement _ Ambassador LODGE mlght feel that this was running
counter to his policy The Group gave its approval to_ the basis realignment of
8 station functions The nature of such functions are not outlined. )
SOURCE STAFF
TSDIC
@
Minutes of Speclal Group Meeting Oct.17, 1963' Kelley
FILE: DATE
6/28/75
PERSONS / ENTIPPIES DATES CA TEGORTES
Tung
9
Col- Smith, David Oct 8, 1963
Phillips Fusus , AID Acting Chief of Sthtion DIEM
Colby , William Sicgon after 10/5/63
Richardson, John M1 Jocko"Aid to Diem Regiuel
OCCURRENCE
On
8 September 1963, the CIA IG report reflects in a coment that the U.S.
governent publicly confirmed on: Oct _ 8, 1963 that aid had alraady been cut
quitely and over a period of some mnths Bill Colby Jock Anderson and Dave Sinith
told us that the public announcerent of the aid reduction was a signal to: the
general and that the reductlon was planned with that in mind . It may be that
the cut in aid was deliberately planned to spur the generals On , but if SO, that
intention did not find its way into the record The nearest thing to 1t is in the
record of a_
presideniial meeiing of 10 September 1963. Tne Prestdent asked
Rufus Phillips of ATD what specific actions Fhillips recemnended and he suggested
"cutting aid to Colonel 'Tung which would be viewed by the generals With much
enthusiasm a5 an indication of virgouous of American position_ tt In general
9
ald cuts were discussed In terins of bring pressure on Diem to make needed changes in
hls-+ez '~plenned;-or ewever-leekred_upon_by- theII E alaEiitEatiocieat: Is
clear thiat
Tun# Vietn
Vietnaese considered the official confirmation of al as a clear
token of' their support of coup planning. Dawson
DtI I 0
IG Report 1967 (CIA) =
S: P.
17-18
naeF
3
==================================================
Page 90
==================================================
8 PERSONS/ENTITIES 6/27/75
KENNEDY JOHN F_ DATES: 1
RICHARDSON
9
JOHN
CATEGORIES :
9, 1963 DIEM
OCCURRENCE
the October 9, 1963 Presidential
thentransfer of JOHN RICdeRbSOl, nengconference the President stated
surmises but I can assure 9 who' is a very dedicated
that "T kow that
activities_
but has
you that the CIechcated_Publicedervant
has led
operating under
40
wiberatedcooder closecontrol ofhahe catried out independent
m instructlons = W:
the cooperation ofrthe Natlohel iceutot;Of Centzal
1 Security
Council and under
3
SQURCE
IG Report 1967 (CIA) STAFF
FILE: p. 32
Dawson
DATE
167
PERSONS/ENTITIES: DATES CATEGORIES :
LODGE
)
HENRY CABOT
COLBY WILLIAM Oct 9, 1963 DIFM
KENNEDY
3
JOHN: F
@E@DY"
OCCURRENCE:
In a CIA cable to Saigon of October 9 1963, marked eyes only for Ambassador (DIR74228)
which was
originaed by WILLIAM COLBY thefollowing appears tt: while we' do not wLsh
to stimulate coup , we also do not wish to leave thelmpression that U.S. would thwart
of' government or deny economic or military assistance to a new regime &d if
a change
capable of increasing effectiveness of military effort insuring popular
Stpoopeated
win war and Iproving working relationships-wlth U.8_ It: The cable urges shopothetconiact
with MINH press for "detall information clearly indicating that
MINH' s plans offer a high prospect of success _ J# The text states that these "additional
thoughts" have been discussed with the President and that the cable had been
geeered bhouzhigh Ozricbees at
White House , State and Defense M}
SOURCE STAFF
Daucon
Oct _
flatly
to
Intelligence
J~
==================================================
Page 91
==================================================
8 PERSONS /ENPI'TIES DA'TES : CATEGORTES:
KENNEDY JOHN F 1
RICHARDSON
2
JOHN Oct . 9, 1963 DIEM
1
TCCURRENCE :
On October 9, 1963 Presidential nersconference the President stated that "I know that
the transfer of JOHN RICHARDSON wiho 1s a very dedicated public servant
5
has led to
1
surmises but I can assure you flatly that the CIA has nox carried out Independent
activities
2.
but has operated under closecontrol of the Drector of Central Intelligence
operating under with the cooperation of the National Security Council and under
1 ITIy instructions
1
p
SOURCE: STAFF :
IG Report 1967 (CIA) p. 32 Dawson
FILE: 2ATE
6/27/75
PERSONS/ENTITIES : DATES : CATEGORIES:
LODGE
3
HENRY CABOI KENNEDY
9
JOHN F
MINH GENERAL Oct 10 1963 DIEM
9
DN GENERAL ~Oct 9 1963
COLBY , WILLIAM
OCCURRENCE
In a 10 October 1963 entry in the Salgon station's "history of the Vietnamese
generals coup" 1t is noted that the Ambassador instruct the CIA not to Initiate
contact with General MIHH or DON but the generals initiate contact
J:
such contact
were: authorized. In the course of meetings with MINH or DON assurances were to:
be given as specified in DIR74228 of 9' October wherein COLBY had stated that the
matter of MINH's plans be detailed clearly indicating that MINH's plans offer a
high prospect of success N While we do not wish to stimulate a coup we also do
not wish to leave the impression that the U.S_ would thwart a change of' government
or deny econonic and military assittance to' a new regime 1f 1t appeared capable
of increasing effectiveness in mlitary effort
SOURCE STAFF
IG Report 1967 (CIA) p. 32
2 33 DAWSON
==================================================
Page 92
==================================================
3
PERSONSZEN!I"KS DAILS: CA'FEGORIKS 1
IOLGI . HENIY CAIZOT
COFBY WILLIAM Oct 9, 1963 DIEM
KEENNEDY , JOHN F L
In
4 CIA @uls og
to Saigon of' October 9 1963.
2
narked eyes only for Ambassador (DIR74228)
which was
originaed by WILLIAM COLBY thefollowing appears while we do not wish
to stimulate coup we also do not wish to leave theimpression that U.S. Iould thwart
1
a change of government or deny economic or mililary assistance to a new and if'
it appeared capable of' increasing effectiveness of military effort , insuring popular
3
to Ivin war and jproving Working relationships.with U.8 M The cable urges thoborhe
the contact with MINH press for "idetall information clearly indicating that
MINH 8 plans offer a hith prospect of success_ 1 The text states that these "additional
thoughts 1] have been discussed with the President_ and that the cable had been
general
M1
cleared th high officlals at White House, State and Dfense
SOURCE : STAFF
Dawson IG Report 1967 (CIA) P.32
DATE:
FLLE 6/27/75
PFRSONS/ENTPIFIES : DA'TES : CA'TEGORIES :
LOLGE_ HENRY CABOT KINNEZDY JOH F
Oet 10, 1963 DIEM
MINH GENERAL
Oct 9,1963
DON , GENERAL
COLBY WILLIAM
OCCURRENCE
In a 10 Oetober 1963 entry in the Saigon station s "history of the Vielnamese
coup" it is noted that the Ambassador instruct the CIA not to initiate
coneaclswicu?Generai
MINH or DON but the generals initiate contact
5
such contact
authorized_ In the course of meetings with MINH or DON assurances were to
Tere specified in DIR74228 of 9 October wherein COLBY had stated that the
be given aMINPes
plans be detailed clearly indicating that MINH S offer a
matter of
M: While We do not wish to stimulate a coup we also do
high prospect of suecess
that the: U.S. would thwart a change of government
not wish to leave the impression
if it appeared capable
or deny economic and military assistance to a new >
W1 of' increasing effectiveness in milltary effort
SOURCE STAFF
IG Report 1967 (CIA) p. 32
4
33 DAWSON
regime
wi
plans
regime
==================================================
Page 93
==================================================
rbfiounoldifzz] 4 4
v
Oct 10, '63 DIEM
SBASSADOR LODGE
SEN_ MINH
GEN DON
TSbd)
@CCRET
1
OCCURRENCE
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Wiil DC; $
0n2i0*21ce €0 2 B1 rcrl:e 12
excomic Jf niisr41y
0cVic0e3s 0f IT 3ogcir0 Glnablo 0} ifuamne
60 Xrig
klirusy cfzor8,
awaurb Wcrinai #uFF0zt
502ki2% rel981023 "qir1 {1e
3 84 081
ad 411500vin3
Unite 310225_
s.s.C.I., 6/20/75
:
Corein
)
Exhibit One ) STAFF Dawson
SOURCE : Hearings ,
Pag 2
DATE: 6/30/75
ILE
PERSONS/ENTITIES DATES : CATEGORIES :
ODGE
9
HEENRY CABOT KENNEDY , JOHN F
IINH GENERAL (ct 10_ 1963 DIEM
3
XN GENERAL Oct 79,1963
>OLBY
5
WILLIAM
OCCURRENCE :
In a 10 October 1963 entry In the Saigon station s "history of the Vietnamese
generals coup" W it is noted that the Ambassador instruct the CIA not to initiate
contact with General MIHH or DON but the generals inltiate contact , such, contact
were authorized In the course of meetings with MINH or DON , assurances were to
be given as specified in DIR74228 of 9 October wherein COLBY had stated that the
matter of MINH 's plans be detailed clearly indicating that_ MINH 8 plans offer a
high prospect of success 1 Wile we do not wish to stimulate a coup we also do
not wish to leave the impression that the U.S. would thwart a change of' government
or deny economic and military assittance to a new regime
9
1f lt appeared capable
71 of' increasing effectiveness in mlltary effort _
SOURCE STAFF;
IG Report 1967 (CIA) p. 32 3 33 DAWSON
FILE: DATE 6/27/75
20c;)
1
==================================================
Page 94
==================================================
8 PERSONS /ENTTTIES DATES CATEGORIES:
Senate Forelgn Relations Committee 1
MCCONE Oct 10,1963 DIEM
1
TCCURRENCE
0 4 A briefing by MCCONE to the Senate Foreign Relations Comittee it was noted that
"we have not seen & successor government in the wings that we could say positively
would be an improvement over DIEM: Therefore it has been our counsel to proceed
cautionsly otherwise the situation might flare up which mght result In something
9
of a clvil war and the Comunlsts would come out the victor merely by sltting on
the sidelines _ 1
2
SOURCE STAFF
IG Reprot 1967 (CIA) p. 33
Dawson
FILE: DATE
6/27/75
PERSONS /ENTITIES: DATES: CATEGORIES
Senate Foreign Relations Comittee
MCCONE
Oct 10 ,1963 DIEM
TCCURRENCE 8
MCCONE to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee_ it was noted that
A briefing by
government in the wings that we could say positively
W se have not seen a successor
been our
counsel to proceed
would be an
iprovement over DIEM: Therefore it: has
result in something
otherwise the situation might flare up Ihich might
cautionsly
3 Comruunists would coree out the
victor merely by sitting on
of a civil war and the
M the sidelines
SOURCE: STAFF
IG Reprot 1967 (CIA) P. 33 Daison
FILE: DATE
6/27/75
==================================================
Page 95
==================================================
8
8
PERSOxiS/ENTT[ES DNFES CATKGORTES
SCONEIN
(ISNISRRAL DN
EDT/li228 Oct 23,1963 DLEM
LOLXE NENRY CAII 8
6FP
0
OC CURRENCE
In a Oclober 23, 1963 entry inco the Saigon stations "History` of the Vietnamese Generals
ECoup' 4 it was noted that a meeting with CONEEIN requested by Ceneral DN DON said the
Generals kd decided to try to stage. a coup within a ieek follcwing 26 October_ CONEIN
Funder inslructions passed the substance of DIR74228 to DN DON promised he would scek
1
m
permission of' the coup' conmitlee to give CONEIN their political' plan for the Ambassador S:
weyes only .
G
SOURCE : STAFF
IG Report 1967 (CLA) p; 33
DATE : Dawson
FILE
6/27/75
PERSONS /ENTITIES : DATES : CATEGORIES
Lt Col: PHAM NGOC THAO Oct '63 DIEM
OccURRENCE
Fep SECRE
E
oq2t 28 20n'8( 4 879*0,1944643 3230 Xrz
O1* L,k < Colnjcl Pwn Nsoc "02n M1 WvsrSig #
Co50 #enluler Z0r 1060 illb; 0ic cunp {whed *0
;/ {rfal9ses Jacr, 36J 6e tewf 8xe Ew
&202 17424 {20020r8284X ob9X0M e 024)
yould levo :egin 03 "0poteu
SOURCE: Tearings , 5..5,C.1; June I975 , Tonein , Exnibit STAFF
Peg e *, Dawson
FTIF< DATR
24 >
220 ,
==================================================
Page 96
==================================================
4
PERSONS /ENTITIES DATES CATECORIES
8
GNEINV 10/23/63 DIEM
AMBASSADOR LODGE
F
OCCURRENCE :
#0p SECHIEH
Ccwwu #kd way 0ha
0iz 30& 30} 09u0n Ae08sger0 ic3e 0€ {he
Oeter #EtamilChe; Io %5 4R0 10* @erurity {olle
1
#0& 702042 00 ~/%nicch I khe k4bes6a;07 0ifcs otiesr
0e0n3 01 6h2 M;WA mere FIw9048; Lo xtlsed 40
3 320 JN82 J97iw2k0 Gf 022 C0u} eomittee t0 Eiva
Kma 02ir Poleticel 0143 401 0k0 Bavan8,#20268
#10 Qul 41d Ttested 8 22}08 X2 :220t3wn
S#ic0 a1 24 Q2eirsh?r .
SOURCE: Hearings 8.8.C.I., 6/20/75, Conein, Exhibit One STAFF Dawson
} page 6
DATE 6/30/75
FILE
PERSONS/ENTITIES DATES : CATEGORIES
INEIN
"NERAL DON
R74228 Oct 23,1963 DIEM
IDGE , HENRY CABOT
@EOC
OCCURRENCE:
a October 23
2
1963 entry into the Saigon stations "History of the Vietnamese Generals
M1 up it was noted that a meeting with CONEIN requested by General DON DON sald the
nerals had decided to to stage a coup within a week follcwing 26 October CONEIN
der instructions passed the substance of DIR74228 to DON_ DON promised he would seek
rmission of the coup committee to give CONEIN their political plan for the Ambassador 8
es
SOURCE : STAFF :
try
only .
==================================================
Page 97
==================================================
6 PERSONSVENTiiLES: DA4E2 0H [ Luulib:;
ON Oct 23 , '63 DIEM 1
onein
OCCTRRENCE
JZgEE
2> 801 Vkd cupcsted {vin '(X 4888 hm 32 ; )
3W1: (8 #0i s8803 WA4,2 04f00r0
cm1k0 Rad ~ci44 20' i}r8091 X 4044
X4v3nse 0f8 #s /6 Oc*ukox Ns 80el Koy 4, &er
9 388 2 c) 71i0}in 2 noak; 0 0e18022 0i Cenwral
3 0 &020, {louol J309"4 Ain8g ka {40*24 *0 1
1" 002hncdr4es &k% 8460 336 Ower cI #I
#ber %7 Derob0?; Ds ; 77r8r83 23 222 40w0208
3
nw ryQolv 0 ylo 0? &"4 88 ,1 20mn}- presiiet
'J434 34 Dar0 he 3kh 0:4 701 Dinisons
5:
jnick
93r #0% eie6 i4 242 %0f1u #r24 f0r ihe -ouy
60 93 onnod Oweelng J#sid0 !@00
SOURCE : STAFR Dawson
Hearings_
%
s.S.C.I., 6/20/75_
3
Conein, Exhibit onejp, 6
FILC DATE 6/30/75
PERSONS /ENTITIES : DATES : CATECORIES
UiV Oct 23, 63 DIEM
'ONETN
HUAN
OCCURRENCE
#@pP
#ul}
Jonbe4ed 23 Xx1nn 0182 202438 0
previcjh 4uetiCS
045 810 039 #tliem *owRr 9 On
GAJeif {oes dWskrmcbon; 94 #n_WEG_
48w4_
2*43
UEE ZU36v2Wee
MTISTV 04 700 30x* {NRvrd % ~ia
%.63 wnr &04 fmpcsi 002.10g r81,*io0s 3itn
2w WR; 104 80230 ~ur 30 80 242*01 *0
93108% Coxin Gnous 3 T14;
SOURCE Hearings , S.S.C.I., 6/20/75, Conein_ Exhibit One,f, STAFF Dawson
PTLE
DATE 6/30/75
SECRET
Jlt?
==================================================
Page 98
==================================================
6
8
PERSONS/ENTIFIES : DATES CATEGORIES
GEN _ MTNH 10/18/63 DIEM
DoN
EN HARK INS P
ONEIN
OC CURRENCE : 1 TOp SECEE H
1
%kh G03nnls Zloh {24 d 3r88m06 owno401
8 {4;a c0a1 Jf100 0G w0: 00 n 0*er
03G {cOwRyllc; Showg {9cRnsAc 2448 #3k 411
5#0+4is0 Wone %eioo: Kwi0
SOURCE STAFF
Hearings, 8.8.C.I.
9
6/20/75
}
Conein, Exhibit One Dawson
Paae 6. DATE
FILE: 6/30/75
PERSONS/ENTL'"IES DA'TPES: CATEGORIES
171763
H SEEDEET
TOCCURTENCE:
{2: 81r7 1 80 #xne 08,32 #SJne (7}009l D0 J10,
'T
rc 0302.01) 022 02 Wiil ery 3mu0y 82r440!
7oi0 W
180053 2l3] niiicr]
40 l+?yge #xvris
ot ~) 3v9M erd Dlom {24 90 X
Uesuer 30W1t 77,2 4 S0"rb 00 rfe 714 6W
#WfnX al0w Smison} 24 G1 601 0 0
X4 801 #8-V1 &0W-ps6n Otmn 042*080 :} *;
a4 3n} Voits Sv3Wl# {X ecWsizecy 3 #
Mriv or :ugmn 234 0Js0 %0 00{ 0 40it3: 9704 03 61
3p20m1 40n3
7
3w froM Zicon
SOURCE : Hearirgs S,S.C.[. , 6/20/75, Conein, Exhibit STAFF
Dawson
pages 13-14
PIE: 20F_
6/30/75
w;
2 1
one ,
==================================================
Page 99
==================================================
4 PERSONS /ENTITIES : DATES CATEGORIES-
gConein Qct 17, 763 DIEM
SHuan
GGen Harkins
1 mbassador Lodge
Seti)
2 OCCURRENCE Coinisn W R4n hsk a02i05 K1ien Juan
e2lrwd {0 i21 0;f h 2089 24% 6 834606
6,4 ~ A Dx}me%) froj 82 Ivimeffs. 3f redrnon
807 t9 %iveml 10 Q#0n0 65 03360+1 30*6rE f7s
[u0swsuejr 1 682; cie 0f 218 C16n18 0l4
~pnri09 02 Kuizs:cr' &61 :s {42 ;2808r 80
vcx 23 Co3eic; 14 1,42 Xdnrdo: 12f-J3 ibet 1
Qznefx Ix #ekfg Wc *he {K0isor'0 3249448-
8 o@ul0 k 0enir80 f03' 0 2!b0kmn citdd:
30+70; ;0ul 303 3039 fming 0 93m/067 &nv] #X
u 010 00 Juroder
SQURCE : Hearings: S.S.C.I., 6/20/*75
9
Corein, Exhibit One) STAFF Dawson:
pe $& 5~12.
FILE: DATE 6/30/75
PERSONS /ENTITIES: DATES : CATEGORIES
LAM NGOC HUAN Oct . 16 , '63 DIEM
AMBASSADOR LODGE
OCCURRENCE
Tby etthH
Er Lw: Mzoc Mnnn, Es#2w0r 02 Carr7ol20 Srel 0c {qrwmr m276 Gificer ws 308 rerircc 48 20 SUS- 314.13 03 iwpwkvowet in Xoxswhar Jowa: cowy ploc
#0PbcWe: Eq "sy efftcer %2042 4: 000i23 87 #t3*2 10 M tIARR% { estebliu
28038
2 "ilie QElicer 825}go0.01
ixg
C80hlc# W43
0m 0220 02 Jr snfiecntiel
fxbansecor Lcige
#Uolsm % wIS 7syioWenting
BcrGcuzaios Eu0h2
somvili &20 crnor Offeces mbo 1ZI}
1i33323822
"0 t0% "0 AAer6080 nil:ey cz1ic0r abW 02 6i
0
in 2W} #iftunm
trm@lon}
SOURCE STAFF Dawson
Hearings , S.5.C.I:, 6/20/75
3
Corein
2
Exhibit One_
Pcg & 5.
77}
==================================================
Page 100
==================================================
4 PERSONSLENTITIES : DATES : CATEGORIES_
CONEIN 1
MC NAMARA 12 October 1963 DIEM
NGU YEN; QUANG
PHAM NGOC THAO
OCCURRENCE ; When CONEIN was asked to explain the reference to Secretary MC NAMARA at p
5, Exhibit 1 he stated that: there were different elements contacting the same: group , 1,e.
L
NGU YEN and THAO But did not explain the reference to MC NAMARA _ p. 29
1
TOP SECMET
8
SOURCE STAFF :
Hearings SSCI
2
June 1975 , Conein R DAWSON
FILE: DATE
July 1, 1975
PERSONS /ENTITIES: DATES CATEGORTES
Oet 12 , '63 DIEM
T
AMBASSADOR LODGE
SECRETARY MACNAMARA
OCCURRENCE:
300] Twye Ces Iwen. 0440x {2 0,e1et)o;
Anor Cea> [orM Je 33 #7rn0ler by MX0
Co pw 4u 010 ycek 0-12
ji A0_McW_X
4_
_eloel
0
Tifife_Wlnb
30_ Prrrieug 39Wx3l 23.444
440
RRr} Stiin Xrni 'jo3 Kon_
Colual mS2 624e6 10.24 Wguywa
0M13 dWdW03 3ici 093 20 0117 6ypoll
STAFF
SOURCE
Hearings S.S.C.I., 6/20/75 , Corein , Exhibit One , Dawson
3
20 ,
SEELBIH
02 W05
8
==================================================
Page 101
==================================================
3
PERSONS/ENTIIES:
DATES CATEGORTES :
CONEIN 1
DON Oct 24 , '63 DIEM
T4p SECRE
OC CURRENCE
Conasa #d Don ia #1 1230 hcurz; (a) Ra did mot
1
72/6l70 @eomasicn 41+4 834 0} ccWirton *0 {ura
J288 tb 0l4tim1 0lon; {0) 4211 j n
ewdorir1 *0 Durline 11e soli+ic02 winking 0f Aka
e4n cmatsee
0
(1} 8ha %icCDollljg_Souxechn?-% 1
Xoule 00 ewxlinn Jxd Ti Nb02 v1 tkc e9u2 coyueltte Kovl hold 2 Sowicr P0ltion 29 rha "0V 2 () 019 Ze EjJArmiew woml: "11 #Gln
Nak070siblet;
CON 'T ON' NEXT in00 Won-021i4488 pilltical Driccer8,
hoid ir18'
CARD: #l lens] &,6 "Arilc Openrici o1 cypsicioin
{Ge] 02r44e 07n8pk I0r ~h? Vja (es_
{rv0 #i.i 3eblee d903 62 Zelliion 1od SOURCE
STAFF Dawsson Hearings_ S.S.C.I._ June 20, 1975, Conein
FILE:
Exhibit One Pa3e 7 DATE 6/30/75
PERSONS /ENTITIES : DATES CATEGORTES
Oct 24 , 63
@e2sili_
OCCURRENCE
1) Jeafci3 02 G+2290,kifm #Mom Aorord 28
CONTINATION OF 00n; {0) 0h3 #C {Jernes" :Juld h;0 93O-Jws}
LAST CARD: 8.i} %08 1 ;07 0 &0 UC; (5} 80 T0w soveri21t
wonld Wrry +h0 TES exeinst #40 7i0f Cos s0 2
870038626l cOlelusion #i82 "cssen sotbicuily
13i}0 {c) 7n2
Gili %uit CanSia
M0ld Jce {n
3X0me #ponct vis "3ip %wn4(nrrex8 Asue 0
0{06a li00 0f CjJer:WMAp4e4o #085000 # coilp
Xw Querters 204 thc fmcasuor; (2} i0] Strad
840 onc x20 con9 Gcrted, 60 3064 d nd Eoc, {ct
81 6SG 6 e +eupt 6 stop 40; (0} 1, 02r RWr2
CONARd ON NEXT 92 e02 plobting 00 Ghe part 04 L2. Eolsnel 2h24
2344 Zn23; {4) *62 Corj conmirie2 A" ## c01*i0t
SOURCE STAFF ;
")`
30
%aly;
0
==================================================
Page 102
==================================================
Xnnuini 4" 4 1. 5 'jri. 22 Ufibly 1A+J 1
1
IMP SECE
B
TCCURRENCE 0
CONTTJATION OF LAST TWO CARDS:
miti '"anos it '200 8005 Sict 12W0 {me rRcamzwry
f0rs 80 ~esry il% pli,; (z} 'ih0 burl3
Oip C6144062? b3 Gfi0 00 ii2e eonciusi: {h01
811870 A00 201y Je i) Xa eiJoww*4 {rCa #i;2
10401 #040 $m Conr) Viati#; (in) 4 "0 #222h25 1
#4 #c0nls0 f;3' 28 Bctone:_
6
SOURCE : STAFF P; '7,6s'h
FILE: DATE
Jis
$0
m
==================================================
Page 103
==================================================
4 PEKSONS/ENF TTIES: DA'TES: LATLGUkei
10/24/63 DIEM
R'ONEIN
SEN FARK INS
OCCURRENCE: G849721 0n 8 2.03 808s; Znoin 0) d2 02 68
V{? %0030 08 8163*4 #Liur 41 G6n Acu0; 091021
L
X {0ke (knrid 8har h0n44 #2il Cnie,44 31i28
0.? "as 04 2 Q;0 , 0jle Mamn 32205
00rmw Xie 'ibi} 2e J,E Mirivery #u4 & 34942
2312 #Lw"8 00 tn3 porerls Twn o Cw8i1 Xoi
2.1 ;124 Ger ~ }?ltw 0+ h2d Tw Xes4 #3fi
1
2W0 cle @be W92c 0r7 silirnY urirs Wer
JwM*ebl0 {01] 0i1le r 40 $aln 20 #WX; 02
8207935
8 KJil O0 wo1n *60 %8 wen} &d J3 SO 082
Jatz Nw 2 m07ee; 200 7eap60d 2, #ceting
r4 etcellg "0 # Gi8ekbor)45 044100 #n1 #e#tonn
{usc0
SOURCE : Hearings , 5,5.C#1., June 720 , T975 , Conein , ExhibiE STAFF
Pages 6 -', one Dawson
FILE: DATE : 6/30/75
YERSONS/ENTITIES DATES CATEGORIES
ODGE HENRY CAPOT
JARKINS October 24
2
1963t DIEM
3UNDY MC GEORGE
EENERAL DON
ZONEIN
JCCURRENCE: In a cable marked "eyes only" to IODGE and HARKINS from BUNDY dated October
24
3
CONEIN characterized this telegram as activat the disengagement between the U.S_
goverment and DIEM The text of that cable is as follows "There may be danger NHU
attempting entrapment DON S approaches to CONETN Feel quite strongly that LODCE and HARKIN:
can stand back from any non-essential involvement It seems wise to maintain close control
)ver meetings between DON and CONELN = 01 p. 33
TOP SECRET
ZOURCE : STTAFF
Jearings _ SSCI June 20 _ 1975 Conein R. DAWSON
SPON SECRET
TC
ing
==================================================
Page 104
==================================================
r LHSUNS/LN'F 1'4' 'LEs:
DATES CATEGORIES :
BUNDY CONETN
EJOHNSON Oct. 24, 1963 DIEM
SKILPATRICK SPECIAL GROUP
'MCCONE
OCCURRENCE
Eon October 24 1963 Mr MCCONE had a speclal group meeting "expressed his fear that
wthe U.S diplomatic and military off1cials In Saigon are becoming too involved
M in conversations between General DON and COEIN Such involvement could destroy CONEIN
ha Qusefullness and dnvolve Ambassador LODGE and General HARKTNG in operation difficult
S1 11 deny _ The Special Group authorized a message to IODGE and to HARKINS emphasi
0
a secure system of contacts with Genral DON and Vietnamese mllitary and an assessment
iof DON S status and hls future plans and the tlghtening of control over the DON/CONEIN
M
0 meetings _ The group agreed firm up pollcy thinking re Vietnam before LODGE returns
to Washington and hear Mr . LODGE S: views on what courses of action should be taken.
E
SOURCE STAFE
Minutes of" Special Group Meeting Oct . 24,
Ise]] Cu TLaz
FILE: DA TE
6/28/75
PERSONS/ENTHPIES DATES: CATEGORIES :
ODGE
SUNDY Oct 24 1963 DIEM
XN GENERAL
YNEIN
OCCURRENCE :
n a CIA cable from Salgon (SAIG1964) from LODGE to BUNDY :it was noted that: "CAS: has
Jeen punctilious in carrying out my instructions I have personally approved each
reeting between GFNERAL DON AND CONEIN Iho has carried out my orders In each instance
I0 xplicitly
SOURCE STAFF
IG Report 1967 (CIA) p. 35 DAWSON
FILE: DATE
6/27/75
top
Zto zing
to
==================================================
Page 105
==================================================
8
PeRSONg/EN'LITIES: DAZES: CA'KG QRIES: 1
TOLYGE
HARKINS
IBUNDY Oct 24, 1963 DIEM
CONIZEN
NHU
7
In
M 6ycs Only Cabl
eable from CIA to Tor LODGE and HARKENS from BUNDY the following
Iessage appears there mnay be danger NIU attempting entrapment through DON 5
approaches to CONEIN feel quite strongly that LODGE and HRKINS should stand back
from any nonessential involverent . it seemns Wise: to maintain close control over 1
meetings belieen DON and' CONEIN 1F
8
SOURCE STAFF
IG Report 1967 (CIA) p. 35
DATE:
DAWSON
FILE 6/27/75
PERSONSLENTITIES DATES : CATEGORTES
BRENT
24 Oct 1963 DIEM
CONEIN
CRITIC
JGS headquarters
~{ScEEA1RENCE
The IG Report notes that "The fact that CONEIN was at JGS headquarters is
well Iown in official circles _ On 24 October headquarters had cabled the STATION In
future do not repeat not message re coup plots or: ruprs in CRITIC channel. Rather you
should slug them IMEDIATE ATTENTION FOR BRENT . As a consequence , the firse cabled reports
from the STATION came in as regular CIA cables and were onto the CRITIC network here at
W headquarters
TOP
SOURCE STAFF
CIA IG Report_
3
1967 , p. 42 R. DAWSON
DATE
Saigon
put
put
SECEEU
==================================================
Page 106
==================================================
3 PERSONS /ENTTTIES DA'TES: CA'TEGORIES:
Mn
HANSEN BREAU OF BUDGET
8 KXECUITVE DIRECIOR OF CIA Oet 24, 1963 DIEM
SIODGE
RICHARDSON
OCCURRENCE
On October 24 1963, there was a Ieeting betleen the executive director of' CIA and
SKENNETH HANSEN _
Bureau of the Budget , wherein HANSEN detailed charges made by IODGE at
his initial meeting with LODGE . The memorandum for the record prepared by the Executive 0
Director details the following charges made by LODGE= 1_ CIA was improperly dealing
0 with NIU; 2 CIA was reluctant to turn over to the military its operation aong the
thill tribes; 3_ CIA had inadequate penetrations of the GVN ad the Buddist and was
{ caught by surprise; 4_ RICHARDSON had a palatial mansion entertained government
officials there 5_ the CIA station Ias too large and too visible; 6. CIA acted on lts
6o1xn initiative Without coordination and without control either at the Ambassador or 8washington.
IANSEN said he later reported to LODGE that he thought LODGE' s charges were
erroneous He said he was convinced that everything the CIA had ddone in Vietnam had
been approved in Washington_ coordinated with and carried out under the directions of the
[nbassador and_hadbeen carried Qut_With good_ludgent_andwitha_high_quality of
performa
VRCEHANSEN noted that
at the time of' his first meet withSjE;, LODGE hadnot
had a full brei on Ivhat the Agency was doing- This took plece a few days later_
(This to be a record by the CLA of a source which it had in the Bureau of the Budget
for
'cip2681
Qut;_what cEhkkinezYas at this tim ) DATE
IG Report
1o8gi2 &33
Pz
PERSONS/ENTITIES : DATES: CATEGORIES
DON GENERAL
HARKINS , GENERAL
CONEIN Oct 24
3
1963 DIEM
OCCURRENCE
In a entry of October 24 1963 the Saigon'$ station "History of the Vietnamese Generals
Coup" it 1s noted that CONETN held two meetings Ilth General DON of 24 October_ DOON
reported he had been informed b; Cexrel HARKENS that the U. S military would not thwart
any coup plans_ DON said the coup plans were coplete; the necessary military units were
available and that the coup would occur no later than 2 Noveinber; The second meeting
DON said the coup committee refused to turn over the political plan but authorized DON
to outline its substance, wnich he did _
SOURCE STAFF
IG Report 1967 (CIA) ,P. 35 Dawson
FILE: DATE_
6/37/75
and
ing
fing yet
==================================================
Page 107
==================================================
3
1 PERSONS/ENTITIES DATES : CATEGORIES :
LODGE
HARKINS
BUNDY Oct 24, 1963 DIEM l
CONEIN
NHU
(l SECQE
OC CURRENCE: 41
In &n eyes only cable from CIA to Salgon for LODGE and HARKENS_
5
from BUNDY the following
10: message appears: there may be danger NHU attempting entrapment through DON 's
approaches to CONETN feel quite strongly that IODGE and HARKTNS should stand back
from any nonessential involvement . it seems wise to malntain close control over
meetings between DON and CONEIN _ M
5
SOURCE STAFR
IG Report 1967 (CIA) p. 35
DATE:
DAWSON
FILE 6/27/75
DATES CATEGORIES:
PERSONS /ENTITIES
HANSEN BUREAU TF' BUDGET DIEM
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF CIA
Oct 24, 1963
LODGE
RICHARDSON
OCCURRENCE ;
24 1963 there was a
meeting between the executive director of CIA and
On October
> wherein HANSEN detailed charges made by LODGE at
KENNETH HANSEN
3
Bureau of the Budget ,
by the Executive
hls initial meeting with LODGE. The memrandum for the record prepared
details the following charges made by_LODGE; 1 CIA was improperly dealing
Director
2 CIA was reluctant to turn over to the
military its operation aong the
with NHU; penetrations of' the GVN and the Buddist and was
hill tribes; 3 CIA had inadequate mansion and entertained government
by surprise; 4 RICHARDSON had a palatial
vislble 6 CIA acted o its
officlals there; 5 the CIA station was too large and too >
without coordination and without control either at the Ambassador or
own initiative
later reported to LODGE that he thought LODGE's charges were
Washington HANSEN said he
the CIA had ddone in Vletnam had
erroneous He said he was convinced that everything
under the directions of the
been approved
in Washington, coordinated with and carried_ out
qualitx of
Ambassador
and_hadbeen_carried_out_with Judgment ting witlgh33u2}iLobof hadnot
perforaQUECEANSEN noted that at the tlme of his first meeting
what the Agency was doing: This took place a few days later_
vet had a full breifing on
44 4+ haa T Hhp Areau of the Budget
1
caught
and good
~
==================================================
Page 108
==================================================
4 PERSONS ENTITIES: DATES CATEGORIES
DON _ GENERAL 1
HARKINS
3
GENERAL
CONEEIN
9.
Oct 24
9
1963 DIEM
TCCURRENCE
In & entry of October 24 1963 the Salgon' 8 station "History of the Vietnamese ' Generals
7
Coup" It Is noted that CONETN held two meetings with General DON of 24 October_ DON
reported he had been informed b" Caleral HARKENS that the U S, military would not thwart
any coup plans _ DON sald coup plans were comlete; the necessary military units were
avallable; and that the coup would occur no later than 2 November The second meeting
DON: said the coup conmittee refused to turn over the political plan but authorized. DON
1
to outline its substance , which he did
8
SOURCE
STAFF
IG Report 1967 (CIA) ,p. 35 Dawson
FILE: DATE:
6/27/75
PERSONS/ ENTITIES : DATES CATEGORIES
IODGE:
BUNDY Oct . 24 , 1963 DIEM
DON GENERAL
@EC2E]
CONEIN
OCCURRENCE
In 3 @IA cable from (SAIG1964) from LODGE: to BUNDY it was noted that : "CAS' has
been punctillous in carrying out My instructions I have personally approved each
meeting between GENERAL DON AND CONEIN who has carried out my orders in each instance
explicitly
SOURCE STAFF
IG Report 1967 (CIA) p. 35 DAWSON
the
Salgon
==================================================
Page 109
==================================================
6 PERSONS/ENTITIES: DATES CATEGORIES
MCCONE NHU
SENNEDY
9
JOHN F_ Oct.25, 1963 DIEM
~ODGE
EDIEM
OCCURRENCE :
dn an October 25, 1963 Presidential meeting on Vietnam with the only participant from
RCIA being MCCONE MCCONE S notes show that the Prasident stated that the purpose
Qf the meeting was to consider: (1) recent actions in South Vletnam with respect to:
Feoup planning and qualifications of the indivlduals report
9
and (2) our policy in
iBout Vietnam as he wished to be "ssured there was unanimity withln the government
Prior to the return of LODGE for consultations MCCONE: stated hls vlews In detail_
AIn sessance he held: (1) DON might be managed by NHU (2) CIA has not control and
ctherefore could assume little responsibility; (3) DON could have a coup in the makdng
&nd could pull it off; (4) we are handllng a delicate sltuatlon in a non-professional
'manner ; (5) successful coup would lead to confusion because generals would provlde weak
leadership; (6) one coup would be followed by aother ad the war-might be lost during
pertodseupeptttcal corfusion; ~rvitans capable of -rurntng eeuld pob
be Injected Into the government and exercise effective control;
{8)t agxotcedi
discuss
dportant political Issues with DIEM because of the policy, of W cool correct attitude; (9)
we eithglrhave to work with DIEM and NHU or we have to take aggresi to remove them
and it 1s not clear that the succeeding government would be much bes
N8etteps
IG Report 1967 (CIA) p. 36
PERSONS /ENTIFIES DATES : CATEGORIES
MCCONE NHU
KENNEDY JOHN F_
Oct.25, 1963 DIEM
2'
LOLGE
DIEM
TCCURRENCE :
In an
October 25, 1963 Presidential on: Vietnam, with the only particlpant from
CIA being MCCONE, MCCONE s notes show that the President stated that the purpose
of the Ieeting was to consider: (1) recent actions in South Vietnam with respect to
coup planning and qualificatlons of the individuals report and (2) our policy in
Sout Vietnam as he wished be assured there was unanimity within the rnment
prior to the return of IODGE for consultations MCCONE stated his views in detall
In sessance = he held: (1) DN might be managed by_NHU; (2) CIA has not control and
therefore could assune
little responsibility; (3) DON could have:_ a coup in the makdng
and could it off; (4) we are handling a delicate situation in a non-professional
manner ; (5) successful coup vould lead to confusion because generals would provide weak
leadership; (6) one coup would be followed by another and the war = might be lost during
pertodg conffusion; (7)civiltans capable running {8)8 eto"discusd not
be injected
ectedinto ehe
the government & exercise effective control (8) eanna discuss
iporiant political Lssues with DIEM because of' the policy of "cool correct attitude; (9)
Ie eithar. have to work with DIEM and NHU or e have to take
aggresiSaiteps to remove them
ing
meet ing
ing
gove to
pull
6f
==================================================
Page 110
==================================================
4
1 PERSONS ZENTITIES DATES: CATEGORIES:
EON _ GENERAL
HODGE AMBASSADOR
SCONEIN Oct_ 28
3
1963 DIEM
6
1.4 L
OcCURRENCE :
October 28, 1963 entry in the Salgon stations "History of the Vietnamese Generals
H cCoup M notes that General DON asked LODGE if CONEIN was: speaking for ther Ambassador
JODGE replied in the affirmative- DON told the Ambasgador; thatf the UKs = government
not interfer with or try to stimulate a cou The: Ambassador agreed with DON . {should
6
SOURCE STAFF
DAWSON
IG Report 1967 (CIA) P. 36-37 DATE_
FILE: 6/27/75
PERSONSZENTITIES DATES
CATEGORIES
DON GENERAL 28 October 1963] DIEM
LODGE HENRY CABOr
CONETN
TCCURRENCE
CONEIN sald "in the latter part of October he was informed by DON to to LODGE that were ready to have a coup and that CONETN was to stay home and
awaotvev
ther orders and that the coup: would be accomplished before November 2, 1963. LODC
thour
was prrparing to return hom on the 3lst of' October was requested through CONEIN by 3
DN that LODGE not change_his_plans as it might be a signal to DIEM &d NHU that something was
going on. p. 48_
TOP
SOURCE
STAFF:
R. DAWSON Hearings , SSCI
2
June 20 _
2
1975 , Conein
FILE
DATe
they
SECRET
==================================================
Page 111
==================================================
ERSONS/ ENTITTES : DATES : CATEGORIES :
STILWELL
9
CENERAL RICHARD
SONEIN Latter part of DIEM
GENERAL: DON October 1963
JODGE_
1
HNRY: CABOP
Q
6
RCCURRENCEE In the latter part of October CONEELN stated, the people In Washington Tigured
Athat CONEIN was being set up as "patsy" and that thls would be highly embarrassing for the
Su.s . goverment in case he was found to have been set up_ Therefore the people in Wash-
Gington made made reconendations that somebody more senlor to him and with extensive mlitar;
backgrund should take over from him. When Washington then sent a message to Arbassador
ELODGE and recomended that a capable officer and & personal friend of CONEIN S , GENERAL
3STILWELL take over GENERAL DON and the coup members said, no , we trust CONEIN
9
We: don t want
panybody else pp _ 31-32
TOP SECRET
SOURCE STAFF
Hearings
5
SSCI
5
June 20, 1975
9
Conein R. DAWSON
DATE :
FILE 1, 1975
FERSONS/EN" T''IKS: DJATES : C4'ESORJES
TN CXNERAL
VOLGE AMBA4SSALOR
SONJEN Oet _ 28, 1963 DIJ
OC CURRKNCE:
[he October 28, 1963 entry in the Saigon stations "History of the Vietnamese Generals
m Joup" notes thal : General DON asked LODCE if' CONEIN was speaking for the: Ambassador
JDGE replied in the affirnative DON told the Anbassador that Tls: government
should not: interfer with Op try to stimulate a coup 'The' 'Arbassador' agreed with DON.
SOURCE STAFF
IG Report 1967 (CIA) n. 36_37
N 4 mr
DAISON
out
July
the
==================================================
Page 112
==================================================
VA:Jyo: CA'TEGORIES :
GENERAL
@NEIN Oct 28, 1963 DIEM
DDGE , HENRY CABOT
0
OCCURRENCE L
an October 28
)
1963 entry in the Saigon station "Hlistory of the Vietnames Generals
I} it is noted that : CONEIN met with Genral DON for the last time before the
8
was launched_ DON confirmed he had talked with the Anbassador who had vouched
CONEIN DON stated that he was leaving on 29 October to coordinate final rJans - DON requested CONEIN to remain at home until 30 October
L; until further
notice_ DON repeated that the Ambassador would have the plans before the Tead;
> >
but when pressed on his previous coirmi tnent to make them available
C98 hours
advance DOON said that possiblythe hours would be made available 4
hours in advance DON sald that nothing would be happening within
the next 48 hours 'and that
1 there was a good reason the anbassador to change his planned 31 October
the Ambassador would be inforied in time to mke: his own decision.
departure
SOURCE
STAFF
IG Report: 1967 (CIA) P_ 37
FIVE; DAWSON
DATE
6L2U75
EN
only
for
==================================================
Page 113
==================================================
3 'PERSONS /ENTITIES : DATES CA'TEGORTES
CONZTN GEN DO CAo TRI 1
GEN NGUYEN KHANH Oct 28 , 63
GEN DON
AMBAS LODGE
Kop SCRE
I
OCCURRLIvt = -
1
Cexn 004 @nazc} 3n 042 98 0 &0362 3jen 14
10 dwsrne Belgon 47 100; morse_ (2 302 4G1-
1
Zevred] t06 J48 484 {lked 20 Frinufe4or Lodre who
b0 vclds {or Cerann; (p) IX)MI "0*3 S4ttre
313 0,06820 "42834 *0 {Jo 08rf82
#lve 12 ha *Ac 4ncf 006522d 1;cr 0bm 1
CON 'T ON NEXT D,8 Pewukne) 309 "41king 80 cljmels 020 Wjore
CARD "Bour ol@ {UW ec*i00; {c} 2 WnS 11f0r72 tkat
6 13013ed0 1062 w16 smWled 20 1ap4r Saf5pd
8 0 0260 31 Ceriper (4) Ikj3 Ts inrei0388d i11
8h12 A%v26 s 20 6108em0r iafavef 80 dwpwr
0 81 0wbok2r) 600684 *ka; h4 H4n4 x0 AbGedor
Ge"ld 481 oi,9 246 uclexul? 00 2 &b.05@ mW8nt 73#
SOURCE STAFF Hearings, 8.8.€.I., June 20, 1975, Conein, Exhibit Dawson
Page %, one)
FILE: DATE 6/30/75
F 6328378.7F
PERSONS /ENTITIES DATES CATEGORIES :
TWP SECRED
OCCURRENCE :
527008 Dy &2 Gvl; (1) 20w s682 {1nt Jle 1733
i0v% 44 #W Otoraw 2) Vccrie} {i001 2le7s
CON'T FROM LAST #420 {asls In Ceo %es /30 %ozy 41 Lbi:; {g) :oj
CARD MWMes 0r Corado 1 r0wi1 2+ 2,J49 Isn 90 Ckope
Wti} fh1an416408; {2) cocin {u#cmowd
rearirw Ccefel Tc '230 W*)' 0fed0vti0
j2 03ie} 96u30ins, 01 0mr4 0n: S04 w5 J0}
clopri: i4 ri0 pUung &d 8k2" 0k4 '70u0
Coenittze snu.rnizerc 08d Gwil Ilu ccrinuously
sCrcem] 20 004 inenrin 00 2100401t0 0iei
j4 !10 bowex 403 si824 0f #m0n0loloc Je cqrw;
(1} @n QltiWsn #r80448 A0 Y0 P2G DQr
JOURCEF p. <, @oNF; STAFF
0+. ti
==================================================
Page 114
==================================================
8
DATES: CATEGORIES
PERSONS/ENTITIES 1
Tor SECRE:
41
OCCURRENCE:
pseMWeG 1n 43 sW) plbnnl 3 6% {b? wuits
#3 t JWE #nti0k02 44 050 1] 0022d rr
X4 0 006i223 02 82 C00? e0awitkee iw3 Jem 02
1
010 Zo.ijwi03 %0i83: Eno_m824 0f khc 09390530
CONT FROM LAST fvd3n0z 3 >00li028 3# Xazweg 011 "2 0m2 412
; CARD 2ar20 ;ie 012 #centl08 02 00k4al Zuy2h Xuu Hi 2n ,
2ha aiive 31 zzh,.fc 21g4 Wivimions Xai? Jf
En Eaision) 344 7003 0 th2 9.1 Divisicn,
(4} '28 Cocmand Ic6} Zor 6ls CeWp 30164 p0 Jolii
#jixpl 36022 1end0n3t8r3_
STAFF
SOURCE p; € , 2 014.
DATE:
FILE:
==================================================
Page 115
==================================================
3
L
PERSONS_ ENTITIES : DATES CATEGORIES :
211ms , CAT Concin 11/2/63 Iicw
Enu
5
Meq Dinh
TUP
Eam Col
SECRE
OC CURRENCE
6
Was returning With Diem and Nh Ancl ZM ailc o € Dicm to the healquarters
1n1 3H2 armoredl pcrs0nnel carier !hen Minh in 3 separate column in1 radio Coi'
Iunications Ivith Lan S co]urin founa] 0ut that Diewn Yhu had heen takcn.
Goncin stntos tht Winh with his nie crossed thc Co l1nn halted it ahl
Jn? stcvped into the arworedl Car: ac 1u)onl orders (rom Hinh ;lhin: {.i]]e
@em Tc bodlics were then tak:en directly to th)e General Staff Healouarters
an4 Jatcr 042 ' in thc alternoon were later renovcd Ci*0m thc Gencra] Staff
Heelerters to `(liniquc St . Paul
SOURCE Vearings SSC Conein
9
Junc 20 , 1975 STAFF XJaNSOn
DATE 7/1/75
FILE
L' La` / 57r 3
PERSONS/ENTITIES DATES CATEGORTES
LODCE , HENRY CABOT
1 November 1963] DIEM
ONEIN
OOCCURRENCE ;
On or about 4:00 o'clock in the afternoon On November 1, 1963 there were
comunications between LODGE and DIEM. CONETN was In both' radio and telephonlc contact
with the Embassy , keeping them posted of the units, the personalities and what was trans _
piring. CONEIN was to con one of the first messages from the generals that the genera
did not Want any U.S. military officer or advisor with any of the attacking unlts d
not: want any American participation within the coup. p. 50
TOP SECRET
SOURCE : STAFF
464 7= ognt T #X_ Xn 107C
anl
they
vey ,
They
I_.
==================================================
Page 116
==================================================
3
Pi #EON;fXNns LkS: BAis CAiEGQUIE 1
2400 hours
REN THIEN KHIEM Nov . 1 , 63 DIEM
FH
RAN VAN DON
JLUJKRENCK:
TCp SecrEv
1
11 2400 Reis Jx &tins 3s Neb s Cui:i 02 S0i{ To;
Ovcnm_ Db %71f %an Own 46 g2+m4&}w #M0 %0- 2 in
692e7149 620212 Does:i Grim j4nsneing Ceneral 6
LE1} Id i "T0505 #1160y sr bonG clcs2iy,
Si882 T R0v0i 8} gertut epJelei an4 aijor30
SQUIRCE S"iAFF
Hear S.S.C.I.
9:
6/20/75 _
2
Conein, Dawson
Exhibit page 21. DATF
FILE: 6/30/75
PERSCNS/EN'F IPIES: DA"WTES : CATEG ORIES
Nov . 1, '64 DIEM
2400 hours
TCCURRENCE
4814 z%.0 #pe 820 0330 nsa )8% bew0 lo te:,
SQURCE :
Hearings
3
S.S.C.I., 6/20/75
2
Conein, STAE'F Dawson
Exhibit page 21
DAFE: 6/30/75
FIIS:
#
ings
One ,
SECRE
TOP
One ,
==================================================
Page 117
==================================================
3 fthoun b' flte; DNPES: CA'TEGORIES
11/1/63 1
2140 hours DIEM
nlU
OCcURKENciz
7
#0P
"o.ia %0i0g 80 8h2 92l369 4402 000 0102 18 089 763 12 1
jur& Kr OUn 428 42 4o 0} 1utsnzi %> 70400 %P0w"
#38 020 (ir 401 rhe %o0 823
5
SOURCE SFAFF
Ilearings S.8.C,I. 6/20/75
5
Conein, Dawson
Exhibit One page 19 _
BILE: DATE
6130L75
PERSONS/KNTIPIKS DATES CATEGOFIES
11/1/63
2400 hours DIEM
QCCUREENCE TOp SECEZ T
0 7.0 hoaljN 1420 blow TV 619
%001% X704 30284 Gsn 3 0 ;e jojnsl
8Mt 420 ~6w ~2 0h4 #X5T 0M {rQi fy Yi0
{n jn} & #v0 20 } {v0 4 C! 82
0# &1402- 210 *100 #SnNd bY
019 90utfys 02 02 %v 843.
SOURcE
SfAFF: Hearings S.5,C.1.
)
6/20 /75_
9
Conein, Dawson
Exhibit One
)
page 21
FILE:
nimt
SECEE
"ov
==================================================
Page 118
==================================================
Piksks/kt ? RS: 2E2: CNFWOWIKS:
MINH 11/1/63
AMBASSADOR LODGE
1925 hours DICM
OCCUKRENCE: TOp SECERE
1823 Hi0n 41220144 *hsf Miblaxdor 00330 32 x#eiva cte
g3n-vBln 4104 #40 frru? oj0r.
SQURCE STAFF; D ^u} SoFJ
Hearings S.S.C.I., 6/20/75_ Conein Exhibit One
page 18 DATE
FILE_ L
[so6
PEiRSONS/EMTTTIKS: DAFPES CATFGORIES:
11/1/63
21l0 hours DIEM
3
OCCURRENCE TW?
1
0
7re0ireuwl Cwe 0401044 6w T: 5060.04 #@ m,itd ; {l@0 n3
1
I: 1
SOURCF STAFF
1
Hearings S.S.C.I. 6/20/75 , Conein Dawson E
Exhibit One 19
4
13
SE0c
Page
==================================================
Page 119
==================================================
I? 1
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88
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8
8
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23
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DocId:32423615 Page 119
==================================================
Page 120
==================================================
PERSONS /FNTITIES : DATES:
GATEC OBhES
:
11/1763
DUONG VAN MIN 1545
TRAN YATEMIKHIEM
Tip SEE
I F553
#Ri YYTH 20 Wlay (Tp (O42Iwl 84023 bowwow% 24 y
-00 folay podu: Jld 1s3l px
%ie ZoUowins We2er l3 Rre 0t J:
4jecna nl Tong Van "nh; Kiiier( #evipir 8
06.2 %nnnsi_lant
Ai/ d0n nl Srin Ven Mi-hp Dereailer? &00r082
Generel %i}_
1
"Gsnwsl Te) 'aien %ule) Ctaf {2 8122f
Jon% Ceremv 8*0ff
0p000224 3/ Ven rin, RID
M/o#SV}} Wswcn %soc Inspees
?'
827+ Dbfmese
Cer/evii VTstd
Y{enmmi Dhen %uar clieu_
SOURCit
Hearings
9
S.S.C.1:
5
6/20/75 , Conein Exhibit 1
Staff;
Dawson'
FIGE: page 16 DATE:
6L3o/75,
PERRSONS/ENITIES: DA'CES CATECQRIES:
11/1763 DIEMU
GEN 'NGUYEN KHANH 1545 hours
TCCURRENCE 8
12
Soilyving &r3 el2d sJ30 0J 8 sbcrdins zh2 Gou:
B/ Werl )ety A 3}24. Cosswiirg 0bree; 1
1
Os 0
{04R) ;'1 0 {d, Crie 33} Wvmo
3is Kc} ;! W "%3 "n Icu0 cnErv].
7
Join; CsWl 3*212 proucrieg U2WVy # wmbcidk 201
M 71202-
SOURCE Hearings , S.S.C.I.
$
6/20/75 , Conein Exhibit one
STArE: Dawson
page 16.
3
DATE:
6/30/75
KGE: 6
12,
SEEGLAS)
TOp
==================================================
Page 121
==================================================
Y 40 J-4*1 `.a 43 Lliss: CATEGORIES
Nov _ 1, '63
1330 hours
DIEM
QCCURKEENCE : T0p SECRET
1330 R;i Boir into 8.15041 Ez0 M Qu82f 8? #NWM:
1206 0046n80 i8 1j8: Irom Q1ns Den8 %alwing CWer
SOURCE
Hearings_
3
8.S.C.I., 6/20/75
3
Conein, Exhibit
STAFF Dawson
page: 14 one ,
PIGE:
DATE : 6/30/75
PERSONS /FN'PTPIKS DA'TES = CATEGORIKS
COL Le QUANG TUNG 11/1/63
1400 hours DIEM
OCc TTZiNCiz
TOP 'SECHED
4
1
0i0ro} L? 80028 iu0g cpu3.m; Xirscrzi tc {r91 07
7ivgs1me & Ssec;?el Zopns 20 08888 0>#; 083403 ~ 26x
3 XW "}
00407g 40 Znliee; abowt 3010 41023" 03wad
7
38 rnrsi are eovicz {4334 tb2 9 02,
SQURCE: Hearings
9
S.8.C.I., 6/20/75
3
Conein , Exhibit one ,
SFAFF: Diem
1
page 14 ,
FIEE: DATE:
6/30/75
1
==================================================
Page 122
==================================================
AJ0fc/ LiviLl[LS: DA'TES: CATECORIES
COLBY November 1, 1963 DIEM
LODGE, H.c
TCCURRENCE When DTEMcalled -TODGE' @rectly preceding TIS deatn, COLBY stales tnac the
Tessage tnat he saw of the sunmary of the conversation was that DIEM , #1 said that he waz
going to require his officers to have filled theiri oaths of loyalty to the constitution ih
Vietnamese constitution, in his office as president He' was very stiff about his poSition
Wi President: p. 67
SORCE : STAFF
R.DAWSON
Hearings _ SSCI June 20 , 1975 , Colby
PILE: DATE 1 July 1975
PERSONS/ENTITIES :
CONEIN
DATES : CATEG ORIES
DON GENERAL 1 Nov 1963 DIEM STATION (saleox)
JGS headquarters
OCCURRENCE
On November 1, 1963, "CONEIN went to JGS headquarters and remained cormand post throughout the struggle Before
at the
by radio. Upon arriving at JGS
leaving his home_ CONEIN alerted the STATTON 8
tried
headquarters
3
CONEIN was told by GENERAL DON that' DON had unstccessfully to reach CONEIN earlier by telephone
A later check revealed CONEIN 8 telephone was out of order CONEIN was told that he was to
that
!
open: to the Ambassador_ Because there was a CIA officer
keep a telephone line
tact with the coup principals the STATION
on the scene and in intimte con- 0)J
of the coup. #
was able to report almst minute-by-minute progres: 1
4 TO slcs
1
SOURCE ;
CIA IG Report
0
1967 , pp . 41-42
STAFF 3
R DAWSON
FILE:
DATE : 29 June 1975
6
==================================================
Page 123
==================================================
PERSONSZENLITIES : DATES CATEGORIES -
CONEIN
COLBY. WILLIAM 1 November DIEM
DIHN_
GENERAL
1963
TIp SEC2ET
TCCURRENCE
COLBY states that "When CONEIN was told by the generals, CENERAL MNH,
that the NHU brothers DIEM and NHU , had comitted suicide CONEIN thought it incredible
on its face This: was because both brothers were very strong Catholics and CONEIN doubted
that would have done such: a thing_ According to COLBY CONEIN was offered a chance
to look at the bodies but turned it down . In trying to reconstruct the period of the assass-
ination on November 1, COLBY reports that there was a telephone conversation between Presi-
dent DIEM and the generals _ In fact there were several of them. President DIEM was very
strongly rejecting the generals
$
calling them to disclpline , and SO forth, in the early
stages At a later stage , in the early mrning of" November 1, he called and indicated that
ke would surrender if he would be properly handled The generals then sent somebody down to
receive that surrender and found that President DIEM was not there He ' d actually gotten
out through the back door of the palace and had gone down to another section of' the city_
SOURCE : CONEIN was not in attendance: STAFF:
R DAWSON
Hearings , SSCI_ June 20, 1975, pp = 17-19 .
FILE: DATE : 29 June 1975
PERSOMS/ENTITIES DATZS CATESORIES;
CONEIN
CRTTIC 1 Nov 1963
JGS headquarters
T0p Seecice
STATION
OCCURRENCE :
The IG Report makes the following statement : "The fact that CONETN was at
8
JGS headquarters is well kown in official circles" and bolsters that notoriety by the
following statement_ "The first cable (on the coup_ was recelved at headquarters at 0117
1
hours (November 1 1963,) Washington time and was filed on the CRITIC network at 0159_
At 0256 hours , following receipt of the sixth non-CRITIC cable , headquarters instructed the 0
STATION to put the coup reporting on the CRTTIC network at the STATION _ Sometime during the
of' 1 November (the confirmation copy of the cable lacks a date/time stamp) headquarters
cabled a waming to the STATION against including the names of' CIA personnel in Its `CRITIC
cables CONEIN is identified by and as being at JGS headquarters In eleven CRTTIC messages _
seven of" which were into the CRITIC channel, without the nme' being deleted, here at
1
M headquarters
SOURCE STAFF
CIA IG Report , 1967, p. 42 R. DAWSON
1
DATE
FILE 29 June 1975 5
they
Colby=
day
put
==================================================
Page 124
==================================================
CONEIN
2AiLj: CATEGORIES =
November 1963 DIEM
OCCURRENCEE
When the generals took over the PTT which controlled the
left only the embassy lines open_ The
comunications
coup &nd instead of leaving CONEIN '
telephone terminals had been taken out prior to the
P. 51 S telephone into his hne open ,
it had been disconnected
TOP SECRET
SOURCE
STAFF
Hearings , SSCI, June 20
3
1975 , Conein
FILE: R; DAWSON
DATE:
1, 1975
PERSONS/ENTITIES : DATES : CATEGORIES:
COLBY
2
WILLIAM November 1963 DIEM
Nhu
OCCURRENCE COLBY stated that "the CIA had nothing to do with the assassination of'" Pres _ 3
ident DIEM 2nd Mr _ NHU_ The actual assassination was a shock and surprise to everyone in
ire United States govement &nd when it was announced it was a matter of grave concern,
In retrospect one nust realize that there was , hovever considerable debate about encoura:
1
and supporting the generals in an overthrow of the DIEM regime and that the record is
very clear that the United States through itsoverall policy was: in support of that overthr: 0
and , of course I think it is fair to say that in launching a violent overthrow of & r v
involved such as this , people are going to: hurt , and in this case
}
the leaders We_
1
killed in the prcess M pp 19-20
4 1
SOURCE STAFF
3
R DAWSON
Hearings SSCI
2
June 20, 1975,
2
pp 19-20 6
T< TXr On T ~ 7770
they
July
ing
gime get
S7G03
Colby
==================================================
Page 125
==================================================
PERSCNS /ENTITTES- DATES: CATESORIES:
GENERAL DINH 11/1/63 DIEM
21 AUG . thru
16 SEFT '63
OCCURRENCE TCp SECREV
~Dink $
~aE #crlous Gu 1og c013 0rio] 25
N0r] @varwor
444 Tod &Ade2r 09101 80 che pcjllzedcw 0x 012
8 846' trricers.
SOUTCE STAFF;
Dawson
Hearings
5
S. 8,C 6/20/75, Conein, Exhibit one ,
page 12, DAZE: 6/30/75
FILE:
PERSONS /ENTITIES: DATES
CATEGORIES
1 November 1903 DIEM
CONEIN
3
OCCURRENCE: CONEIN stated that on several occasions he warned the embassy that certain
1
going to take place
or bombings by aircraft were going to take place_ at a 0 shellings were
alert American personnel who might be livlng around the area to
certain time in order to
because theywould find 105'8 In the center of the city _
1
watch out or stay under cover
The:
Vietnamese suffered about 100
There were no American casualities during this coup
I: dead. p. 51-52 TOP SECRET 1
1
SOURCE:
STAFF
RS DAWSON
E
.I.,
==================================================
Page 126
==================================================
EASOi S/hnWKS WAES: CAFEQEIKS:
11/1/63 DIEM
OCCUIRENCE:
T0F SECRE -
'1her2 "aj 4 J0nk 9) s02 %8s14002 #oup lamzched 22023, 02
prior 0 *42 JChui
t24 4ls* Eorgor Fibulion
23
clua Rremi4002 ord3re
Pnn 2*3 80 "3rrRouzd 04
eov2 Irto Exi404 e4 8 tk2 rim
oloe} Jn t22 SrJerals
323ncg %f8 08u33 gotiler stubllng
3urjr;8? {hin
S4# 02 70;j cepferoly 12k2n
C 'Oinmeie? 01
#i8 Ftelio en4 Au *0 r0soriae ~ir %412 t 0lf0,0 %9 Tlcodrew N6 "nft.
SOURCE : Si4FF: Hearings_
2:
S.S.C.I.
2:
6/20/75
2
Conein , Exhibit One , Dawson
page 11
DATE
PILE: 6/30/75
PERSONS/ENTITIES DA'TES: CATEGORIES
GEN; DINH 31 August. '63 DIEM
11/1/63
COUNSELLER NHIU
OCCURKK;NCE
TU?-JECEEH
3
Dinh
2 On approximately 31 August
2
had the &udaeity to inform both President
Diem and Counseller Nhu tbat he was their savior and requested a ministerial
post; for himself
07
1
SOUKCE :
Hearings , S.S.C.I 6/20/75
5
Conein, Exhibit one ,
STAFH
Dawson
1
pages 12-13.
BILE:
DATE 6/30/75
2
0210r
041i82
hy py
==================================================
Page 127
==================================================
L1/l/6j DlEM
GETV MINK
OCCURTENCE
T05 SECRET
30 40000 088 Xa "e2rni3 t8 0802231422 Q7rub1
5a {60 312063 8 ; 22006401 ofeieers # 12 hala R 814akeoi
0008M 292 331 6000481 #121cG0C 10 %40 B483on ~> (l #2
CON '1 ON 020Mc0 Z 100041 0 "t @ioh} 120 :11 CQ:hel#4 of
NEXT_CARD 44 met_ c1c? .0v21 00+ 3X 8h8k0 0fficexs Ji] #Ape re
ist 03nrl 86242 reWf8r8 #r Werg #24t01 {Kt} 062
SepM:l 8 Eeskei Zen Ro '0 [5380 KWX) 0W04? %6e}
Www.m tbi @0 G0] 4 E0w 3 62100828 4na Eiwa 2}
:e 040 pcnnert by {anc_ K1 # &0, 3 00600 7
xliow Mne 3it s_4Sne @lns Yah0 dto Xh1e F84_
{Md Aee0 Por {i3a 0241602*/3 i4 cr0 joruc 00 0
01a CQ1: 41 @60,04 0p 8.
E wui iwa 0/ *ol4 k2
SOURCE: STAFF Dawson
Hearings , 8.S.C.I., 6/20/75 , Conein , Exhibit
pages ll-l2_
YILE: DA'TE 6/30/75
PERSONS / ENT['IES DATES : CATECORTES :
TOPISELRET
1204 M MQTv A0mu Eqnerl 8081 dcscquerters vi} mer2 40€
60 Jebv0 4k #Omand WoN$ 't0sc wlo 09,] 20} join tka CCW (ete tt
i"conoy slcd wmei' 0nr20x 3u0 01i$ "ref %Jm2:] suard; @wee
3
Mx0 #Mto snbors iRd n0x] 046m W0y? Q043104 Aink oowd
5
2 #W? 8x021 bruut 20 30 ceod pest "0 # ish 84k kee
1e4 fbw Breclrenticnl en4 chjeceives cf S coW) Plotfare Khiel
1 5
9Y6 #5u040 Tw tken eked edci cZfccr #ho j :ryevati 8
3
prtlei24&e 42 tha couQ *2 {pac h13 2280 in2 02 }p2 07
"ewordeur S908] 10128 Mer9 Mere 2380 82 Briclal
{iphiruter 101 aiziorend peiis 02 the elij J0 Vic_;irreised
Qiding 17c0 82 rhet 1fi 200 0480% rhe eoln fil0 Do Vificer
"1 coud- 4441m 1h;r ha hd nr volunsaiily 241i0r3ntel La %ke 60a
SOURCE P. 12, LAST CARDCONTINUED STAFF
1
Dawson
FILE DATE
6/30/75 1
2
ty
'one ,
#w0
==================================================
Page 128
==================================================
PERSOES/ENEITTES
DATES CAKEGORIES :
COE KHANGv
11/1/63
DIEM
OCCURRENCE:
{ca 020 Op h2d strb0, Colcnal Khnnng 0 th2 Hrina 3m82 3d Colorel Ldin 0f 0he Civil Gari
CON T ON : jcla 00 CnvP_ Oolonel Jnml 2i 0610 2430
decided t0
NEXT CARD ~ 2 {82 x0corcer m4ch I25 %o J} Jatex
rtcordad Angtretic2;
Cur 141t oforng
#e1 60
brcadutist to A11 Civil
3
cacgcrak? Hitb tI: Ged?1l;' RiriletiinZe Corlttae_ 1tS Cxlcnol Ilnz , Coimna der of #he Srueee telepnoncd
uni egxAnders Z01 Uien Sertlci- '1n2gs {3 #n2 0070 #4 0rder*84 tce tc 30 0020n 92 che #ly Derce
supuot 02 cou;
vice Colonel
{,4 Givel 80 Colouel 30 Kisi %oi
Kicn_ 'e8 22nd 04 the 7+8h1 Wimica t0 Oolocal Mgwgen Ver Co,
#X3 31w2
Tenwcrniy e rinnnd 02 *h12 2v Cxres
ZOURCE
Hearings, 8.8.C.I.
2
6/20/75.
2:
Conein .
9
Exhibit one
STAFF
page 12 9 Dawson
FILE DATE:
6/30/75
Lcttt
Xlcu AxiirrizoinZzintincrtt 403
Iha PERSONS/ENTITIES
DATES : CNCEGORIES
OCCURIRENCE:
JOP SECT
8
BNTENUATTON FRQM_LAST CARD
86 '
!
Wp
914 {ivm 0 ioZocel 2.11, Ilu Zfon, Ccr;wncl 0f Bl00 8043 0v0m *0 Gecrnl Ton iiiat
170206 d}
07er i4 copw%0 Wxer €
Diti Uarer #cuer41 Tinh? g
2 4 Goaran C7i0 Erirede, 848708
expro,€ trcsns: 10 %wlna Brlend?y
x) 7*% Wvisicuaa
ruuk; 31*01 &e Aru Coinr: #E(i , th Sch
1
{fricer &
Visinles Bxscortcchb] tbe Aix Forca eild t0 Zlw fuc
OWG 32 Colonel
Bwse wiiieh jcined tk0 201p undler: #ha La Ccn 1
SOURCE: 2
12 , con 't _ SFAFF
SECREH
TOp
143
Page
==================================================
Page 129
==================================================
PEREONIZENTFIES DATES: CN QIES-
1l/1/63
DLNH
MTNH
DON
IOP
OCCUI}ENCK :
#: {i4 0o6
X4 808*840 07 1327 &38 0e O+00 20 1 Xelkz2 X90
00 034 Wiea 8+20964 012806 &32208 1~2 rZjna i% 40
#veer #xo #Wneatg 454115 X10 3028 Qi #08ri052 mith
#0ri ~em 004 Ceon} #i4 005 0e 008 04 &r08r thsz
3100 40Xct T.00 Die} QN8 R012 02 02 0347r031880 323
Mei iy 10 hW4 B?)04 42 920983817 . 20 elf2i26
E4n2 4{ 13 SW# 1/ 3 #Wromjains 82 %213 14ui
Aine] 400 0wrvAiiad Di Mbuna 2
i303 04282004 Coz 464 483+ "c# 19 {rpG 0044 m3 c"yls 7 0rsWe s2ier oa1
SQURCE" STAFY Dawson
Hear
>
8.8.C.I., 6/20/75, Conein, Exhibit one ,
page 13_ DATE: 6/30/75
FIIS:
{
3
1
1
I: 1
1
E
FECRET
018]
4d;
082
Q} 82]
3;
ings
==================================================
Page 130
==================================================
"oSuns/ii'fiS AS CX'T#luiliy
1171763
10p21
@e| SEELET
OCCURRENCE :
Xn 30I* X0 & X0 {b3e iJr07/f A
chicusi 10 JEw1)
4 po 042801) 0X32 62 %444017 80342 {2rvi# :
K s0l0 %} €83042 31253 "il42036 6362:[i9".2e 40K113
'cice 8x Tn #raztert )roN_ I8M Z0022 738{4 03 3w
90 X4 Jeibe Z: Wl W3 #pe? " #oFX 743 (x.0;
236023 "Wanzebes {WNmo0 Mic A} 3m{' 8 Ri
"5 0034 6 103 36 Jwo? {ors #447w44 40
Z0} t0 DW} v410 Savorebw 0 *02 #0WZ {wm
30i 03 {&o4 330 :Jco i0 18500), 0 ui Anh 03,
S/rell 1o338sy 2w4" ftR4 34wo2
SOURCE: Hearings, S.S.C.I., 6/20/75, Conein, Exhibit one
9
STAFF Dawson
pages 13-14
6/30/75
PILE: 2ATE:
PERSONS/ENT' F'MIJS : DA '%S CAPEGOKTES
NGO DINH NHU
11/1763 DIEM
GEN DON
GEN DINH
OCCURRENCE
TOp SECRET
8
1
0:l 0l1w w &ctlon &9 86 #2-n Ji3 0 Mi" 1
#ruzi;ii {00 XU8 p0608 2; 008. A0v 40;004 W4n}
2% # Jupe hy 7125-4 Dlo_ Xn# 1480070
1
{27 &W} 0302&1 Jon 36020 akwic# 04
784r] h1 0011408 Jtn ~% K 03,3 0 rm01 0e;
R 3v2 a1) Gceeld Xw20 woou 0WWkd by_ 0440 04
1
iT4 8o4 180 070A4m22
SOURCE:
Hearings
9 8,S,C.Z.
2
6/20/75 , Conein
%:
Exhibit one
STAFF
Dawson
1
9 page 13 _ 0
PTIK: DamF 6/30/r5
4#5
0
==================================================
Page 131
==================================================
3
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HY 50955 DocId:32423615 Page 131
8
6
==================================================
Page 132
==================================================
ZET a6ed ST9EZFzE PIOo 5s60s HH
1 0
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L9
1
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6
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8
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48323
91
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2
==================================================
Page 133
==================================================
EET abed Si9EZrZe PIDou 5s605 AE
1
8
i
7
Wx
0
a
J3
2 2
W
{ V
I
1
K
1
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9
";2
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2 2 75
6
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6
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#
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1
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4
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Ui =
17
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28
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8
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Hjh
8
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==================================================
Page 134
==================================================
PERSONS/ENTITIES : DATES CATEGORIES:
HARKINS LODGE , BUNDY
9'
DON ,
30 Oct _ 1963 DIEM
SE6IEV
QCCURRENCE On 30 October 1963, IODGE replied to BUNDY 's cable (DIR 79109) of the:
Sane date by CIA cable from Saigon (SAIG 2063) M1 do not think we have the
power to delay or discourage 3 colp . DON has made it clear many times that this is
a Vietnamese affair. I believe we should continue our present position of' keeping
hands off but continue to mnitor ad press for more detadled information. CAS has
been anaylzing forces for some time and it is their estimate that the generals have
probably figured thelr chances pretty closely_ It does not: seem sensible to have
the military in charge of matter which is SO: profoundly plitical as a_ change of' govern-
ment As: to requests from the generals_ may well have need of funds at the last
mment with which to off potential opposition_ To' the extent that these fuunds can be
passed discreetly
9:
I belleve We should furnish them. If we were convinced that the coup'
was going to fail we would of course' do everything we could to it HARKINS has read
SOURCE this aind does not concur STAFF
R Dawson
CIA IG Report 1967
>
pa 39
DATE:
FILE: 29 June 1975
PERSONS/ENTITIES :
DATES CATEGORIES
FELT ADMIRAL' CINCPAC Commander
CONEIN 31 October 1963 DIEM
OCCURRENCE:
:
CONEIN stated that on or about October 31, 1963, FELT
cam to Vietnam and
landed and had a intervlew with DIEM in the mrning.
p. 48
1
0
1
Reng,
SSCI
1
June 20, 1975, Conein STAFF ;
R DAWSON
1
FILE: DATE 5
T,~ 707r
they
buy
stop
TOP
SECRET
==================================================
Page 135
==================================================
PERSONS /ENTITIES DATES : CATEGORIES
LODGE
BUNDY 30 Oct 1963 DIEM
TCCURRENCE
On October 30 1963 in a CIA cable from Saigon (SAIG 2094) the following
cable frm LODGE (in its entirety) occurred: "Thanks for your sagacious instruction _ Will
carry out: to best of my ability_
TCr SEONET
SQURCE STAFF R. DAWSON
CIA IG Report, 1967, P. 40
FILE: DATE 29 June 1975
L D Or
PERSONS / ENTITIES : DATES : CATEGORIES:
IODGE
30 Oct 1963 DIEM
CH
BUNDY ( 2)
OCCURRENCE On Ctober 30, 1963 , in a CIA cable to Saigon (DIR 7940T) the ToTlowing
quotation appeared: r' We do not accept as a basis for U.S. policy that we have no power
to delay or discourage coup We cannot lit ourselves to proposition implied in your 3
message that only conviction of certain fallure Justifies intervention. JU.S authorities
will reject appeals for direct intervention from either side 16 the IG Report here
states without further showing the author of the above message that 0 the White House Ie-
1
# peats Its instructions on conmand of the country team after LODGE leaves The inference
can probably be drawn that the message although looked upon a8 a CIA cable to Saigon , it 0J
was undoubtedly emanating from the White House;
1
T0 1
SOURCE STAFF ;
CIA IG Report , 1967 p. 39 R. DAWSON 1
FILE DATE 29 June 1975
2
==================================================
Page 136
==================================================
PERSONS/ENTIYIES: BN 'TiS: CA'iEGORIES
SPAT'LH DAVID MCCONE
HARKINS GENJ RAL HELMS
Oct . 29, 1963,
'IRUISITARD , HILLIAM COLBY
SBGLsc
KIENNEDY
9
ROBEIF
KiZNNIDY JOHN p
OC CURRENCE
Tn a Presidential meeting on Vietnam on October 29
9
1963 Iith MCCONE
2
HELMS , AND: COLBY
Jn attendance _ 'The following record by HEIMS and COLBY shows that: 1t was suggested
that in the Arbassador S absence HARKINS 'TRUEHART and DAVID SMITH act as a
conmnittee Lo direct a coup operation MCCONE countered with the view that 8MIEH should
not be Involved in such a policy making function
)
although he would be in a position to
provide technical advise to HARKINS and @RUIZHART as Iell as: earry out their instructions
in the operations field_ 'The President stated that if the forces in Saigon were not
clearly in favor of the eoup we should discourage its launching The Attorney General
felt the U.S bas risking too much based on flimsy ev idence The DI stated his view
that even a successful coup would ereate a period of' interregmu, confusion which might
only be solved by a second or third coup_
SOURCE STAFF
IG Report 1967 (CIA) p. 38 DATE Dawson
FILE:
6/27/75
PERSONS/ENTITIES DATES : CATEGORIES
HARKINS , EN
MINH KEZNNEDY JOIIN F_ DIEM
LODGE Oct 30
9
19637:
BUNDY
OCCURRENCE
8
In a CIA cable to Saigon (DIR79109) of OCT 30 1963, BUNDY wrote to IODGE saying that
# chances of action with or without our approval now so sigmificant that we should
urgently consider our: attitude and contingency plans _ We believe our attitude to
17
coup group can still have decisive effect on itsdecision_ We Iust have assurance
balance of forces clearly favorable CONEIN should express to DON that we do not find
1
presently reveal plans to give clear prospect of quick results we badly need sOme
corroborative" evidence of neen or others directly involved highest authority desires
40
it clearly understood that after your departure HARKINS should participate in all coup
contacts supervision and the event coup begins he become head of country team_ 0
1
SOURCE STAFF
1
IG Report 1967 (CIA) p. 39
Dawson
6
1
==================================================
Page 137
==================================================
DA'ES: CATEGQRIES:
LODGE , AJ BASSADR
DTEM Oct 29, 1963 DIEM
NHU
TCCURRENCE
In a CIA cable from Saigon (SAIG2040) of 29 October sent through eyes only channels of: ZIA: LODGE gives his view on the seemingly iminent coup: In surTnary_ it would
sat a coup atteipt by the gnerals group is iminent_ and that
3 appear
she USG carl prevent a coup attempt short: of
infoinint DIEdanqatho DASttoveactcoe by
ave no requests to date by the generals for materials or f inancial
Althoughthere
Inticipate that such requests my be forthcoming. M
support
2
we must
SOURCE
IG Report 1967 (CIA) p. 38 STAFF
Dawson EILE;
DATE:
6/27/75
PERSONS/ENTITIES DATES : CATEGORIES :
LODGE , AMBASSADOR
Oct . 29 , 1963 DIEM
DIEM
NHU
6
OCCURRENCE :
In a CIA cable
from Saigon (SAIG2040) of 29 October
9
sent through eyes' only: channels of 1
CIA LOLCE hls view n the seemingly imlnent coup: Tf In sumary , it would appear
9
gives
is ` fminent and that no
positiveaction by
that a coup attempt by the generals group
and NHU _ Althoughthere 0
the USG can prevent a coup attempt short of. informing DIEM
we must
have no
requests to date by the generals for materials or financial support ,
1
anticipate that such requests may be forthcoming.
4 1
SOURCE: STAFF
3
IG Report 1967 (CIA) p. 38
Dawson
DATE
6
FTt;f;
==================================================
Page 138
==================================================
PERSONS /ENTITIES: DATES : CATEGORIES
GEN DON
10/28/63 DIEM
AMBASSADOR LODGE
CONEIN
To SECRE4
OCCURRENCE:
Ceer? Dch ap-nccb: a#beedor Lodse #% L?146
4003r2 0X #0 0888400 cf :he 303nrove o%
pvedent bio #ri ficerwedor LooEN 204 04r
r0curz 02 Gaigsn a0d :300 12 {360 Bs mpaeking
303 12 #uharuilen; fwisea iox Lcdie 1901424 11 49
';07
{9; 0o ] 8W G00 46303 00 136 Old
~ % 20kirre & 63 t #timalece { As5; 414
03:.8Wr002200 82 USG Mer #I mm{lises #d
V8. vCAdie 0)} 80* 1 avXJ0#
SOURCE: STAFF
Hearings_
9
S.8,C.I,, 6/20/75, Cone Ehibit One , Dawson
DATE: Po92 7-0.
6/30/75
FILE
PERSONS/ENTITIES DATES CATEGORIES
SMITH, DAVID MCCONE
HARKINS GENERAL HELMS
Oct_ 29, 1963
5 TRUEHARD , WTLLIAM COLBY
SUL_u
8
KENNEDY ROBERT
KENNEDY JOHN F;
1
OCCURRENCE:
In a Presidential meeting on Vietnam on October 29 1963 wlth MCCON , HELMS _
9
AND COLBY 0
In attendance The following record by HELMS and COLBY shows that 1t was suggested
that in the Ambassador's absence HARKINS TRUEHART and DAVID SMITH act as a
1
committee to direct a coup operation_ MCCONE countered with the view that 8MTTH should
not be involved in such a policy making function
>
although he would be in a position to I:
provide technical advise to HARKTNS. and TRUEHART as well as carry out their instructions
1
in the operations fleld_ The President stated that 1f the forces in Salgon were not:
clearly in favor of the coup we should discourage its launching_ The Attorney General
felt the U.S was risking too much based on flimsy ev idence . The DI stated his view
that even & successful coup would create 3 period of interregmum, confusion which mght
1
only be solved by a second or third coup
STAFF E
SOURCE :
in ,
==================================================
Page 139
==================================================
DATES : CA{EG ORIES
DERSONS/ENTITIES:
GEN DON
GEN DO CAO TRI
NGUYEN' KHIANH
7pSECIZ
OCCURRENCE
T&
{ Zoverei dy3 Doaore the ip Wils *0 0440 31260, {enarl
1 rowauwr0 {10 21041 wirh Genqz lm Co Caa "1 03
Sqn = yon
Zren@ A14] 0i0 022 Colwsudi;s 042680 1f tie [ilitez
NEXT 22
Eolar '%e %te1l &3 Srrt o20 s4u 7nS 3e021 04 2
CARD 423m%} 4r
presidont 0 6h c*30i #8c
pr01o06 0804*# ies181
24*2r 1 Zovmnccr 3101? Gonld J0 7m 00,ss G4 tkare wo0ld b2
only 21 00-Wk Iuch peicd Jy 32040 Ad s9lephc10, t2
ck9 %rk :ulpals 44:] 140L4 4a3/ 0kon2 00 euj poruafyunts
440 89 91 1 Xuesder Wophimg L3s %oule peln % 1230_
820648 4* 0230 Jrs 1 No"ober 648 $m3trctici% 8ra S98_-
{lit 27 44r $040*0958 0w4y 4r00 €mig0@a 1,8cv Jlue: cLr]] 141
44010- rim8 80 Ehen {i0 203208 %0101 Te42 60 pmtels Selgo::
SFAFF: Dawson
SOTRCE:
Hearings s.S.C.I., 6/20/75, Conein, Exhibit one ,
2
page 1l.
6/30/75
DA'TE
PILE:
MPISEEBET
TCCURRENCE :
CONTINUATIOV OF LAST_CARD , p, 11
8
4 bc 102 2864610J 0} 4388} Aours_ Qi 014% 02"%0 7w11 iWuision
18c2173d im3 #or1w2+2021 60 38oWY
2* 1330 Wourt I} #C uelij
1
#ova 8 1425 br8. Tii, &l0 106 one-Or 39 Wimof *00442180
7hicb tefly i0ner 0n0 Epu? 348 040r0 M0S # stt 01s #uld 0
%8 :absncd b] 8k0 2r628 J3yal R0 Mizmt}
S'TAFF :
1
4 SOURCE
DAZE:
1
FIIE:
3
6
083
3s 1
Vhi "3J
1}
"G0}
==================================================
Page 140
==================================================
PERSONSLENTITIES DATES CATEGORTES :
CONEIN GEN DU ONG VAN MINH
GEN 'TRAN VAN DON Nov _ 1, 1963
TRAN THLEN KHIEM
Lincint
SECREI_
TRAN_ VAN_MINH JcoN'@
OCCURRENCE :
Coeain M3 pb60 G3*nlj Eon
$
id2 %e
@n9bw2 214; 2 2318 Acun0 #212116
8231 Conain 80 J4c] Jmmnxinalu 41 820202.3 8201 1i_ WibrSers: a40c8 04id 23 0u ene14 grewioub wity # angements
fwr 09 Kar0 f0ew2 ioel: CONTINUED
ON NEXT 08021-Ee 23: 7X0 #4% "n3 mly Wrylug
CARD 8 7rc}iomg #.0 8t280
e30 Coowin
Jini
Lltdt 7o- 471
{cld eca2 j- 8l403 Za 22 Ghou 4291.074
74le L* 4002 4 deo8is* 1uc3? 022i03
We8tin
3 81335 Jr Vawe Wn 042404 0t Gelo's hea
ANs 0- "er8ne 9f 00 Jeajere %ir Gm0eh
i7J44fly
{0 J3S
24 & 97004m
992.
hwe vees?uw; J? 0ber 082291 0:2 00u2 00, 1 Owin A190M 01
SOURCE
Hearings , 8.8.C.I., 6/20/75 ,
Conein, Exhibit one
STAFF?
Dawson
2 Po3es &-9,
FILE:
DATE 6/30/75
OCCURRENCE : QEVHZt
80l2r 7i4 420 06;2rs 0 463+4n531440 7240 c340
413000v024 30 60 Wr Dcom 06 JG Weleuurbers_
28836 Tvre GJremls Uwn #XJ Wk0kc 20 7nu fon,
CONT FROM LAST P2au I0 Ocice) Tro 94e 3d4i4m #01 921 Ainh 8
CARD IyWa Apc M4i In Zrzn 00 "ie 3i4, Txn 'N
{>
#;
Drefe Vsn
Izyei Ulac W3J=
T Ngcc Tuml ,
18 WJn "rjiem; Colownals I W0il, 3xujo :0vng,
Luous Ugcd {4n; 34j0r3 10 #uged Wai_
2
Lo' Kese 02i"
0 W00 uningutizied :Wlioz' 02441918
SOURCE
P STAFF
7
00
FILE: DATE
1
1
0
TOR
I}
Cnp *2
8145,
7*8 0
1:
==================================================
Page 141
==================================================
PERSONS/ENTI'LLES :
DATES : CATEGORIES
11/2/63
TICE PRESIDENT THO
0310 hours DIEM
OCcURRENCE TCp SECREA
c31: Vicv % emdar To 66 3G3
T1lsce 19 ofur he2vy 2**ck
SQURCE:
SiFy Hearings S.8.C.I., 6/20/75
)
Conein
2
Dawson Exhibil 22,
KILE:
DATE 6/30 /75
1
1
0
1
1
5
One , Page
==================================================
Page 142
==================================================
Lfuftof LWVE2E4Le =
DATES CATEGORIES
MINH
2 November 1963
DIEM
NHUNG
OCCURRENCE
8
Tup SECAET
tc MINH for
the CONINtitated that
around: 6 :30 or 6:40 on November 2 1963, DIEM
first time DIEM asked MINH for full 9 talked
not guarantee full honors if ad during
honors and MNH replied that he could
another_ DIEM stated that
he would
the time that Vietamese were still killing one
that this took place at
order the cease fire at the ace and CONEIN recalls about 7:50 , November 2 1963. CONEIN stated there Nere four armored' cars and 113's as follows 1 At this
dlately from the Joint general staff an escort of mi_ litary police proceeded Ime-
his aide CAPTA TN NHUNG into
headquarters toward GAI IONG PALACE.
BIG MINH with
the general staff a sedan and with MTS went out the back road from
from the armred
headquarters toward the back of' the golf course &nd took a different cars that went down Ie_ m rad p . 52-53
SOURCE:
STAFF
Hearings
9
SSCI, June 20
9 Conein Ra DAWSON
FILE:
DATE July 1, 1975
PERSONSZEN'TITIES:
DAYES : CATEGORIES :
MINH
11/2/63
2420 hours DIEM
0d0 ()
TCCURRENCE:
TCP SEE;
9
X7VX 2800 4 I40 244402 Skh
1
ic2 )W0 86 Rk30 6" #0 000X_ 12
ordarwa
vcub S # Ywsy 1008.
Mon venlcin3
L; 0 0} i0o: %dw00
Amxo.toly
GA Js
WX #muinr 1 703 {id
SOURCE:
Hearings _ S .S.C.I., 6/20/75 , Conein STAFF
1
) Dawvson Exhibit page 23 _
FILE
RATE: 6/30/75
1
5
pal:
stage
got
Corps
Cong
1975 ,
J
3
One ,
==================================================
Page 143
==================================================
TEhSUnSZiNH' 1"' 'IES = DATES CATEGORIES:
Hon; General
Conein 11/2/63 Diemv
TCCURRENCE
Cone in stated a t the tinc, they Ivere. !0ing to bring the
mhon 4 0n2 thc canitulation 0 ( 1)i p ess in Eor thc ce1e-
in the press"
e 74
Don gct thc hcl1 out Ive a1e hringing
TOP SECRET
SOURCE:
Hearings
7
SSC Concin
3
June 20 1975
STAFF
TJawso n
ILE:
DATE: 7/1/,75
PERSONS ENTITIES DATES CATEGORIES
LAM, DUONG NGOC
'o@/ortabout DIEM
NHU Mevember
24963
XUAN
GENERAL MAI HUU
Accm ker >, /963
3
OCCURRENCE :
XUAN and LAM recei the message that DIEM &d NHU had been spotted took
!
off wlth armored cars and went to the church_ XUAN reported to the President_ saluted
2. and told him to into the armred car NHU protested and asked for a sedan DIEM and NHi
were shoved into the car and Were told by the corander of the colun LAM; who was a little
fat guy who wore a mustache and used to command the civll guard and not the individual who
later became I-Corps comander_ that the use 0f' the armred car was for their physical prov
tection. P. 59-60
14 1
SOURCE
1
STAFF R. DAWSON 6
Hearings , SSCI June 20, 1975
3
Conein
saidl" C1I 2
Fas
TOP
SECRET
ving
get
==================================================
Page 144
==================================================
PEKSONS /ENQIIES: DATES : CATEGORIES
Conein
#c. 11/2/63
niem
TCCURRENCE
Concin rTtf 1e kept contact With the junt:l "until the that the i;_
'0 € €icially recosnized tlie.~South Vietnaese- government There WC1e sevcral
comntrics: that recosnized and i #as acting as 'thre liaison 0 f (iccr For the
amhassalor to the junEzl during this petio fo1 approx iwately ten cays ()}
Lwo: Keeks
TOP
SOURCE Tearings
r
SSC Conein
;
June 1275 STAFF TLw$.011
FILE: jj . 61 DATE: 7/1/75
PERSONS /ENTITIES DATES : CATEGORIES
Tua Conein 11/3/63 Dien
Shut
QCCURRENCE
Colby stated that anothcr 0fficer Jyho hala wvorkecl wilh Concin was apparently
3
cxecutcd} ahout that SamC timc a5 Diew anl Nhu #ere_ 'Tunn Inad hccn Iveakl o[
thc Special Forces an(] Hadl Iorkerl very closcly with {Jicn and #hu Ans] Cocin Jdl
1
Vl$ exccnted by the Gcnerals that Horning Page 27 -2#
0 TOP SECRET
SOURCE
1
STAFF Tearings SSCI
2
Jue 2 0 1975 , Co]by D);Twsom
FILE DATE
1
7/1/75 5
Lodcc
dIay
SECRET
2 0 ,
==================================================
Page 145
==================================================
PERSONS /ENTITIES DATES CATEGORIES
11/2/63 Dicm
Hinhi
't Jgq {iih
Sone im
OCCURRENCE
Zoncin @xjlaincd tiwat although it Jvas baff1 7; to why i)ien left the palace
to &0 to thc churcl in Ch;o] ane although he dic not knol cxac how they
;ot out tlc seneral assuption was that therc Wvcrc secret tunnels II} the palacc
#ich W;TS the forer Governor General " s Palace Called (ailong Ralace Thc
eunnel took thcm under tiough thc palace ad tlie half block to City Mall
'a!c 63 - 64
TOP SECRET
SOURCE STAFF
Hearings , SSC Conein, June 2 0) , 1975 !awson
FILE: DATE:
7/1/75
PERSONS / ENTITIES DATES : CATEGORIES:
X:ns, I jor Wlin} Viem
Pcn Ngoc Conein
'Ian Nhm
OCCURRENCE
9
Rang wvas jn tlc armoredl colum anal returneil ahont aJ) hour after Minh l1ad le ft :
Conein asked Bang (whom Concin Ivad met in Hanoi in 19459 what his orders #ere .
1
Bag stateel the o Fdler s soing through the ace WvaS: t at Jge Ivere not Lo Fire
Mlcss: Ivc Wvcrc Eircd apon that they had not hcen founal at that timc:
Thc cxpectation Wdls andl cveryhody as sumedl that Ninh aL Nhu were at thc
pa lace
TCP SECRET
7
1
SOURCE (c SSC ( Cpn (^ 77 Sc 7)5 STAFF Tawson
1
i
inz
tly Ql ,
a o}
{-/t3
pal
ancl
ac R
==================================================
Page 146
==================================================
PERSONS/ENT' I'TES CUiv '1" ON NEXI
DA'TES
CARD
CATEGQRIES: [c
11/2/63 DIEM
0310 hours
UCCURKENC 211 {cnazel officer; 0rEepe {400rl3 Yx; '144 C
Iwyni F2.1 Bafm 2201 @WWbg Wwnga
LIST OF OFFICERS ixlonels: Iin] Van Zhsi
PARTICIPATINC IN, Co Nn, cnict 01 ifilikry Xs0ri Jariam
THE COUP- Nguyen Huu {c
Ngnyen V0 Cean J-4 3GS
Nzeyel Icuozg,
0
03iaz 0f Stf Jur 16ia
CON 1 on NEXT Tr00 Vizl @vyew
CARD Dall @m %ci CO, Zir Emfzrtry I icicg
I03 N:oc Lem; Dinecx: 650441 3ivii
Gu27 49 8ef4 #er22 Our32
SOURCE Hearings, S.S.C.I., 6/20/75, Conein, STTAFF Dawson
Exhibit One
9
page 22
FILE: 2ATE: 6/30/75 TWp SECREZL
PERSONS/1i' ITIES DATES : CATEGORIKS
DIEM
NGUYEN CAo KY
9
OCCURRENCE
OF OFFICERS PARTICIPATING IN THE C~UP: 1
ASTcard
ConTHISE
1,*, Colonel3: % Ngiyjef S2UIx Coxrnedou W2W
Iok
1P
Biignde
Do Ek 241 Ri0f ~2 4#2 Ve8W20>
1
Bir Tvrce
Nguye: (2, Ky 2 0 Jst I85 Vge
04
Viers es2 Piz T7fka 1
TOP Sreprs
1
SOURCE: STAFF
Hearings, S.S.C.I., 6/20/75, Conein, 6
{J .
#Y
==================================================
Page 147
==================================================
DIEM
IOp ISECRET
OCCURRENCE: LIST OF OFFICERS PARTICIPATING IN THE COUP: CONTINUATION FROM
LAST CARD: {Oc
Ugam wisi 3
X4W 92 {9e
Majors:
X00
Iym 8rs% 3G
SOURCE STAFF:
DATE ;
KILE:
5
1
0
1
3
6
==================================================
Page 148
==================================================
REREC"" LENE1?Ii3: Da"es CAikIKS:
11/2/63
1330 hours DIEM
NHU
OC CURRENCE :
T0? SERRFT
1 00600 'En) 44 {. X0} 3ai Ak} 00 4r Ztu o3ld
40 } 07114vlisa4 803900012 eciWet s 2r0n 02 Cholon vuize KXpowe ow i22 00 Dizce 19m03
190 ra 040 Long
221084 80 '# SC Ww Zenx 'Ju Tue 7 %*; Gk03? Yix_
SQURCE STAFF ;
Hearings S.S,C.I. 6/20/75 Conein , Exhibit One Dawson
Pages 24 25 _ DATE
FILE: 6/30/75
PERSONS/ENTITIES:
DATES CATES ORIES
DIEM
DON , GENERAL
MINH
9
GENERAL' 2 Nov 1963 DIEM
CONEIN 8
JGS headquarters
OCCURRENCE:
W According to one of CONEIN 5 reports DIEM called CENERAL DON at 0650
1
2 November and offered to surrender uncondltionally _ 9 GENERAL MINH
hours
0 telephones removed from rooms in their JGS command post area.
TNis 'cuedoatell ordered all
with the outside except for radios under MINH' s control
all communicatio
TO? SGLET 1
1
SOURCE
STAFF 5
R DAWSON
==================================================
Page 149
==================================================
XERSONSEDTKS 2E: CA'TEGOPIKS:
Nov 2 , 63
1130 hours DIEM
NIU
UCCURRENCE:
TOP SECRET:
J120 Colcael #n6n Bxor 7w0 su: &hpt {4 {ul Xis 205205
ex 044 %00 106063 #Wg 99 ma+89 ob!g' :uis *:
Porc Dlue #2Gn t0 034 503 0100 oi* suvrender
#cl rcsvelen #RZ
'3i80Wc}#1 *&0 Dalece {4ki @0 noc
'wnow 8 2W2 00 X2/80: %> 20 %n3 se:
101
Willac 3 Sron #XCnlon I5" X 07" #02 #1Q
Remiy W0ra Duxcp
SQUEcE SPAFF
Hearings , S.S.C.I 6/20 /75 , Conein
9
Dawson
Exhibit one, page 24 . DATE:
PITEE: 6/30/75
PERSONSZENII'IIES : DATES CATEGORIES
11/2/63
1330 hours DIEM
IU
OCCURRENCE:
FAELRierett 9
1
0224204 in1 J2_
1.
435. 00 rhex 3ir"n Nh {4#0 0J
oimly Kzc clugl} 2d kffwd 040'
3 [vsJ:lv} 21 4
cteW 123 {u '408) 0loloi GprW=i0 080. "Xi
1
G240 2) Ej. , SMwM 04 IX 420, Ais Z;8f-
te 1
SOURCF STAFF :
1
Hearings S.S.C.I. 6/20/75, Conein
Exhibit: one Dawson
page 25 _ 2
PITE: 2ATr;
3
83
by
==================================================
Page 150
==================================================
PNSONS/ENTITIKS DA'FES : CA'TEGORIES
11/2/63
AMBASSADOR LODGE 1000 hours DIEM
OCCURTENCE
ICP &ECkZ6
1260 Lod%? fvred e0nvw*# 80 *he (Wcrry.
SOURCE SFAFY
Hearings
>
S.S.C.I. 6/20/75 , Conein, Dawson
Exhibit One , page 24.
KILE DATR: 6/30/15
PERSONS /KNTIiTES DATES CA'TEGORIRS;
GEN MAI HUU XUAN 11/2/63
1130 hours DIEM
NHU
OCCURIRENCE : TCp SeciXEt
8
!
9/1404] 31 Su Z042 '2 #a 4e"412 Mbich 120424 Dien 0)J
Ane Whl &t 0 "illx 00 QuW Xs 0403r in wlon_ funr
2Mte {J 008 3c0 :S] nmr kqf2; {4ir0 J2 den*h 2 &
1
Xi ii4a 185 Wkecn
4 1
SOURCE SfAFj Dawson 3
Hearings , S.S.C.I 6/20/75 , Conein,
Exhibit page 24 . 6
NILK: IJA FE: 6/30/75
€x
'J
one ,
==================================================
Page 151
==================================================
PERSONS /ENTTTIES : DATES CAIEGORIES :
11/2/63
NHU 1000 hours DIEM
TCCURRENCE TO SetrET
XoV? )*X ,unA0_ 410 4 08 Z4 m4a 10 uccorse
J:8t' 80 Qiw0 0WMX {m+ IS4 04 nue bWje Aez0d
SOURCE Hearings S .S.C.I _ 6/20/75 , Conein STAFF Dawson
Exhibit page 24 _
FILE DAFE
6/30/75
PERSONS /ENTIFTES : DA'ES CATECORTES
11/2/63
NHU 1000 hours DIEM
TCCURRENCE : 4
TUp SttreH
1
0J
Wu; Y0w*0 BN"h 23 Jo Dvs 16 uczonfl "3"
Xv 0r0 elwv TWn 0+ Ne 02 022 2w7e #S0#202
1
04 1
SURCE : Hearings S.S.C.I 6/20/75 Conein STAFF, Dawson
Exhibit One , page 24_
1
PIIE: DATE:
6/30/75
6
One ,
==================================================
Page 152
==================================================
VERSCUSTENTVTKS 2E8; Cn"wioxiks:
Vice President THO 11/2/63
0420 hours DIEM-
OCCURRKNCF : TOP SECRET
MmG R00i0 080 318 sccaple co,itio 88 {ine JMnis "
SOURCE SHAZ
Hearings
>
S .S.C.I 6/20/75 _
3
Conein, Dawson
Exhibit One , page 23 DATE; 6/30/75
FIIE:
HESE_l[K
24423 CAYKEQIES
11/2/63
1000 hours DIEM 4
QCCURRENCE:
1
TOP SECRE Y 1
I' {nlc {ii S+IW4 Xnu
1
1
SQURCF learings, S.5.C.I .
9
6/20/75 , Conein _ SFAFF
Damcon
5
0 >
==================================================
Page 153
==================================================
PEKSONs /ENTIFPIES : DATES CATEGORIES:
DON
CONEIN 2 Nov 1963 DIEM
OCCURRENCE
On 2 November 1963 GENERAL DON informed CONEIN that he needed mney to pay
the families of' persons killed during the coup CONEIN gave GENERAL DON an additional
1 750,000 ters One bundle of 250
>
000 piasters was overlooked and was' found later in
CONEIN' s safe '(The:,IG Report goes on to: note as follows : "The passing of' these funds 1s
obviously a very sensitive matter.")
TCP SEGIET
SOURCE STAFF:
CIA IG Report, 1967, pp. 40_41 R DAWSON
FILE DATE 29 June 1975
8
1
1
I: 1
1
E
pias
==================================================
Page 154
==================================================
HW 50955 DocId:32423615 Page 154
N
==================================================
Page 155
==================================================
PLRSONS /ENTI"TIES : DATES CATEGORIES :
KIJANH Jan . 1964 DIEM
MAJOR DANG SY
UC(URRETCE
At the trial of Sy by the Khanh thatesucceeded that of the
coup leaders temporary or provisional government_ Khanh prosecutor insisted that the:
deaths had been,caused_by Aerican-supplied grenades_ f the type known as MKIII whose
use had been ordered by Sy , and the conviction-by thesmilitary court Was that the 8
deaths were caused by these concussion grenades_ Higgins argues in her book that this
conviction is contrary to the Pentagon S assessment of the MKIII grenade which fouid that
at Iorst the effects: of such a grenade are non fatal Nor' does such a grenade have suffi
cient force to decapitate or mutilate persons ,
}
let alone bring down the ceilings doors
and windows that were adjacent to the veranda of the radio station (95-96) iliggins &iso
states that: "The conviction of Major Sy certainly throws no light on the matter
one way or anotler The trial was clearly rigged from the start. 1f (96-97)
SOURCE: STARF:
Qur_Viet_Nam_Nigh Higgins Harper and Row _ Dawvson , R
1965
FILE= DATE: 2 , 1975
3
!
Wp
2 4 1
1
2
Dang regime
Dang
Dang
tmare
July
==================================================
Page 156
==================================================
Mouiio/ ENF444L2: DAYES : CATEGORIES :
Thich Tri Quang Spring, 1965 Dtem
McNamara
Diem
TCCURRENCE
Higgins , in her book, quotes McNamara as stating In Spring of 1965 that: "Thich
Tri Quang has made: serious trouble for uS before and he Wwill again. Perhaps the
greatest mistake we made was_when we gave Thich Trf Quang at the U . S .
h Embassy . (from September through November 1963) 103
SOURCE Qur_ Vietnam_Nightmare by Marguerite Higgins STAFF Dawson
Harper and Rowe
FILE: DATE:
3 , 1975
3
1
1
1
2
Page
SECRET
Top
July
==================================================
Page 157
==================================================
VALE2: LATEGORIES
E.
Pearso, D_ Diem
Breckinridge 3/67
IX _ C - 2 _ b
Castro
OCCURRENCE :
Breckinridge actually put together the
I,G_ Reports and he did 80: in response to a March 1967 Drew Pearson colum to the effect
that the
was involved with criminal syndicates to assassinate
agency
of discussions caused by the
Castro As a result
office
Pearson column staff members in the I.G.'s were directed to together reports on CIA involvement in the assassination of Castro _
3
Trujillo_
3
and Diem (50 )
TOp SFECRET
SOURCE
STAFF
SSCI; testimony of Wm. E.
3'
6/4/75
JFD
FILE:
DATE 6/28/75
5
1
0
7
3
6
Colby Wm .
put
Colby
Cage
==================================================
Page 158
==================================================
PERSONS/ENTITIES : DATES CATEGORTES
IG REPORT
CONELN
SPERA 31 1967 DIEM_
DON
9
GENERAL
DIEM
OCCURRENCE :
In concluding, the IG Report makes the following observations "To recap :
(a) CIA was not in favor of the decisio to abandon the DIEM regime , but falthfully carried
out instructions (2) CIA officers CONEIN and SPERA were the contacts with the coup gener_
als , but only as: approved and under instructions_ (c) A CIA officer CONEIN was at the
3 generals' command post throughout the fighting: (d) CONEIN fumished GENERAL DON about
$65,000 to off opposition military units while the coup' was in progress. (e) CIA had:
no hand in the assassinations and had no forekowledge 0f them: M
Top SERREI
SOURCE STAFF
R DAWSON
CIA IG Report, 1967, p. 44
DATE:
FILE 29 June 1975
8
1
47J
7
1
1
May
buy
==================================================
Page 159
==================================================
ctiblmalWnw LLLLL DATES CATEGORIES
COLBY 1975 DIEM
FF4fF2 6ih
OCCURRENCE
COLBY stated in response to the difficulty for the United States once it has
sougnt to accomplish objectives through foreign nationalists to control the actions of ths
foreign nationalists that "Certainly the foreiger makes his
Own decisions at various tiv
the degree to wnich he is going to do one thing or the other_ The U.S cannot contrl it
The U, S ca1 assist ther, the U.8. can counsel him and advise him, pernaps influence hin
but: the control that is when you are dealing with essentially aother soverign_ why t;
): are limits to your degree of authority over them: " p. 76
SOURCE: STAFF
Hearings _ SSCL June 1975 , Colby
R DAWSON
FILE: DATE: 1 July 1975
3
1
07
7
16 1
1
1
20 ,