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

58. Memorandum From the Deputy Director for Plans, Central Intelligence Agency (Helms) to the President’s Special Assistant for National Security Affairs (Bundy)¹

Washington, May 23, 1964.

SUBJECT

• CAS Vientiane Assessment of Situation in Plain of Jars and Immediate Requirements to Bolster Friendly Forces in Laos

1. Attached is the gist of a CAS Vientiane report² received this morning as an assessment of the situation in the Plain of Jars. This report confirms the disordered and disorganized condition of General Kong Le’s forces, and notes CAS support to the neutralists as well as to the Meo guerrilla forces. It concludes with CAS Vientiane’s belief that it would be a mistake to relax even for a moment in preparations for countering further Communist pushes against friendly forces. Vientiane notes there will be, among other requirements, a need for additional air support.

2. I believe this report is of particular significance as a candid assessment of the confused situation in Laos, with some thoughts as to what we can do about it. There was not sufficient time for CAS to clear with the Ambassador and other members of the Country Team although the report is being passed to them for their information.

Richard Helms

1. Source: Johnson Library, National Security File, Country File, Laos, Vol. V, Memos, 5/21/64–5/31/64. Secret. Also sent to Taylor, William Bundy, McNaughton, and Clay.
2. Attached, but not printed.