751G.5/9–2052: Telegram
The Ambassador at Saigon (Heath) to the Department of State
632. Rptd info Paris 129. Gen Salan returned yesterday. He called on me today to express his appreciation of action of US Govt, MAAG and Emb in expediting delivery of addit planes to permit more massive parachute operations. He said he had never seen such an enthusiastic “climate” with regard to continuance of Fr military effort in IC. Even the Socialist Party was favorable. He had been assured that the IC budget for 1953 wld be voted without difficulties. He was pleased with his reception by Gens Ridgway and Gruenther.
He thought Bao Dai had behaved very well during his stay in Fr. There had been some fear that there wld be gambling and night clubbing escapades in Paris. He made good impression on Fr officials with whom he had talked and on Fr press.
He was pleased with Gen Linares victories in Annam and with addit planes soon to arrive he looked forward with optimism to the fall and winter mil operations.
Letourneau will return Saigon Oct 6.