32. Memorandum From the Vice President’s Assistant (Burris) to Vice President Johnson0
RE
- SEATO Forces in Thailand
The build up of forces in Thailand continues although U.S. representation constitutes the majority of foreign personnel. The U.K., Australia and New Zealand in their capacities as members of SEATO, have sent token forces. France and Pakistan (also SEATO members) have declined to send any forces whatsoever. The Philippines is considering sending a token force—either an engineer or medical team.1
As of the 31st of May, Australia had dispatched 350 men, 8 fighter aircraft, 5 bombers and 2 transports. New Zealand had sent 35 paratroopers and 3 transports, while the U.K. had sent 20 fighter aircraft. By contrast, United States personnel in Thailand numbered more than 6,400, with a force of 9,200 authorized for the operation. The fighting element of U.S. forces is concentrated in the Marine group and the Army battle group of approximately 3,000 men, with 20 Marine aircraft and 20 Air Force aircraft to provide ground support. An Army Aviation Company, an evacuation hospital, and a light air transport squadron are enroute. Additionally, a fighter squadron and a transport squadron are in the Philippines for dispatch to Thailand if needed.
In contrast to the highly effective combat elements which the SEATO powers have sent into Thailand, the Lao forces across the Mekong River are wholly ineffective. They are demoralized, disorganized, and seemingly unwilling to fight.