Foreign Relations of the United States, 1964–1968, Volume XXVIII, Laos

213. Memorandum From James C. Thomson of the National Security Council Staff to Vice President Humphrey¹

Washington, December 21, 1965.

SUBJECT

• Helicopters for Laos

In response to your query of December 9th to Mac Bundy² regarding Bill Sullivan’s interest in meeting Souvanna’s request for more helicopters, here is a brief status report:

During his recent Saigon trip, Secretary McNamara decided to authorize delivery to the Laos Government of a total of 10 helicopters (in addition to the 2 they already have) as rapidly as the necessary ground and air crews can be found or trained. In fact, this will mean delivery of two additional helicopters in January, with the remaining 8 to be phased over an 18-month period. CINCPAC has now proposed a specific timetable to implement McNamara’s decision.

In short, Souvanna will be getting what he wants as rapidly as the Lao can operate the helicopters—which is probably somewhat less rapidly than Souvanna hopes.

James C. Thomson , Jr.³

1. Source: Johnson Library, National Security File, Country File, Laos, Vol. XV, Memos, 4/65–1/66. Confidential.
2. Not printed. (Ibid.)
3. Printed from a copy that bears this typed signature.