21. Memorandum From the Deputy Director of the Defense Intelligence Agency (Fitch) to Secretary of Defense McNamara1
Washington, April 9, 1964.
SUBJECT
- (TS) Cross Border Patrols in Southern Laos
Referenced attached Embtel Saigon cable 1913, 6 April 1964, para 10 (TS).2
- 1.
- In view of concern in Saigon that the Communists may be creating in Laos a capability for direct unit support to the Viet Cong (Para 7, Reftel), and fact that this concern can not be definitely dispelled by present all-source intelligence holdings, there is a requirement for cross-border air and ground intelligence collection missions. Laotian right-wing sources have repeatedly reported larger concentrations of troops and heavier supply activity (including air drops) in southeastern Laos than can be confirmed or are accepted. Our discounting of these reports is not based on first hand information, however, and could be dangerous. High-altitude photography has been of some assistance in this problem but because of the heavily-forested terrain their product is not conclusive. The photographs have shown truck activity on Route 12A but give no indication of cargo or destination.
- 2.
- A Viet Cong hospital and rehabilitation center has been reported in the Laos-Cambodia border area but never confirmed. It would be helpful to know the exact size, status and location of this facility—particularly whether it is in Cambodia.
- 3.
- It may also be that the value of logistic support to the Viet Cong via Laos has been overestimated and that in fact the bulk of this support arrives by sea or via Cambodia. Based on present intelligence holdings we are not able to arrive at a sound judgement on this question. Ground reconnaissance patrols into Laos would appear to be the best way to get detailed information on the extent of Communist activity there.
- 4.
- This information has been provided to the Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff and interested elements of the Joint Staff.
Alva R. Fitch
Lieutenant General, USA