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1563068
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MIA/POW - National League of Families Convention (1)
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1563068
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document
title
MIA/POW - National League of Families Convention (1)
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collections
John O. Marsh Files (Ford Administration)
John Marsh's General Subject Files
subjects
Missing in action
Prisoners of war
Speeches, addresses, etc.
Vietnam War, 1961-1975
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1563068
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1976-08-31
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8
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1976
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1976-04-01
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4
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1976
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The original documents are located in Box 21, folder "MIA/POW - National League of
Families Convention (1)" of the John Marsh Files at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential
Library.
Copyright Notice
The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the making of
photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. Gerald R. Ford donated to the United
States of America his copyrights in all of his unpublished writings in National Archives collections.
Works prepared by U.S. Government employees as part of their official duties are in the public
domain. The copyrights to materials written by other individuals or organizations are presumed to
remain with them. If you think any of the information displayed in the PDF is subject to a valid
copyright claim, please contact the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
Digitized from Box 21 of The John Marsh Files at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library
Dr.
hears
OREGON
ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF DEFENSE
APR
1
19,0
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20301
STATES
$
2 9 MAR 1975
In reply refer to:
INTERNATIONAL
SECURITY AFFAIRS
1-3183/76
Mr. Earl P. Hopper, Sr.
Executive Director
National League of Families of
Prisoners and Missing in
Southeast Asia
1608 K Street, NW
Washington, D. C. 20006
Dear Earl:
This is in response to your letter of March 16, 1976 concerning your
request for COIN ASSIST travel.
In keeping with past DoD practices, the Services are authorized to
provide space available for all dependent wives, accompanying dependent
children, and dependent parents of military personnel who are PW/MIA.
This authorization extends to parents of married PW/MIA personnel whose
wives elect not to attend the convention and to families of missing
civilians. Excluded from the authorization are family members of
individuals formerly in a missing status who have been declared deceased,
and those of returned prisoners of war.
The Air Force will again act as the executive agent. Eligible PW/MIA
family members should be advised to contact their respective service
casualty officer regarding their travel plans as soon as possible, but
no later than June 10, 1976. Families should also be advised that a
maximum effort should be made to reduce the number of individuals who
fail to show for scheduled transportation.
We will continue to provide whatever COIN ASSIST air travel support we
can. The resultant scheduling information, following completion of
Service arrangements based upon their receipt of eligible family travel
intentions, will be forwarded to you for your convenience.
Sincerely,
RquE.Shill
ROGER E. SHIELDS
month
Deputy Assistant Secretary
AN
AMERICA
1775
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Dr. heares
TMENT DEPENSE
ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF DEFENSE
APR 1 19,0
WASHINGTON,D.C. 20301
STATE
STATELE
2 S MAR 1976
In reply refer to:
INTERNATIONAL
SECURITY AFFAIRS
1-3183/76
Mr. Earl P. Hopper, Sr.
Executive Director
National League of Families of
Prisoners and Missing in
Southeast Asia
1608 K Street, NW
Washington, D. C. 20006
Dear Earl:
This is in response to your letter of March 16, 1976 concerning your
request for COIN ASSIST travel.
In keeping with past DoD practices, the Services are authorized to
provide space available for all dependent wives, accompanying dependent
children, and dependent parents of military personnel who are PW/MIA.
This authorization extends to parents of married PW/MIA personnel whose
wives elect not to attend the convention and to families of missing
civilians. Excluded from the authorization are family members of
individuals formerly in a missing status who have been declared deceased,
and those of returned prisoners of war.
The Air Force will again act as the executive agent. Eligible PW/MIA
family members should be advised to contact their respective service
casualty officer regarding their travel plans as soon as possible, but
no later than June 10, 1976. Families should also be advised that a
maximum effort should be made to reduce the number of individuals who
fail to show for scheduled transportation.
We will continue to provide whatever COIN ASSIST air travel support we
can. The resultant scheduling information, following completion of
Service arrangements based upon their receipt of eligible family travel
intentions, will be forwarded to you for your convenience.
Sincerely,
RquE.Shill
ROGER E. SHIELDS
Deputy Assistant Secretary
ELENTE Moons
AME
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
June 18, 1976
MEMORANDUM TO:
JACK MARSH
FROM:
RUSS ROURKE
&
Jack, in Alan Wood's absence from the country, I gave
Robin West the green light on the MIA air support. This
will be a DOD initiative, and the President will be left
totally out of the picture.
cc: TMarrs
BGulley
MMitler
THE WHITE HOUSE
Tort
WASHINGTON
June 4, 1976
So/
MEMORANDUM TO:
JACK MARSH
FROM:
RUSS ROURKE
Jack, Bill Gulley advises that DOD did, in fact, roll over
on these MIA air support requests for the past five years.
This year, however, the Air Force General Counsel has taken a
particularly strong position, and has refused to budge in the absence
of a change in the regulations prohibiting such travel support.
A Presidential directive would, indeed, cut across the entire
dispute and authorize the requested aircraft. As I indicated,
however, Gulley advises that the White House turns down approxi-
mately 25 such requests a year.
Bottom line
a political/humanitarian judgement will now
have to be made as to whether or not the obvious upsides outweigh
the equally obvious downsides.
You might want to discuss this with Cheney et al.
When you advise me of your final decision on the matter, I
will get back with Alan Woods.
D-R/M
Run By R/C
R R
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
MIA's
&
alan Words- -
a) outlegal, not against
policy- - space available
space required only
way we can do it is
In will be ashed to try
to: sorry Montgomery
legislative soute.
JUN 24 1976
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
June 23, 1976
MEMORANDUM FOR:
JACK MARSH
MILT MITLER
FROM:
TED MARRS Jan
For your information, Hopper is pleased
with this arrangement.
Enclosure
BERALD ,ORD LIBRARY
alan
copy Woods & 6/25/y
Apecial 10:45 mess.
NATIONAL LEAGUE OF FAMILIES
OF AMERICAN PRISONERS AND MISSING IN SOUTHEAST ASIA
1608 K STREET, N.W., WASHINGTON, D. C. 20006 (202) 628-6811
22 June 76
all more
attached in Roger's
litty authorizing
Can Gasest travel
for Lenger members in
to our meeting 1
july requested. which your
Regards
ford
EARL P. HOPPER, Sr.
Colonel, AUS-Ret.
Executive Director
GERALD FORD
Dr. hears
OF DEFENSE
ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF DEFENSE
APR
1
19,0
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20301
AMERICA
24 MAR 1976
In reply refer to:
INTERNATIONAL
SECURITY AFFAIRS
1-3183/76
Mr. Earl P. Hopper, Sr.
Executive Director
National League of Families of
Prisoners and Missing in
Southeast Asia
1608 K Street, NW
Washington, D. C. 20006
Dear Earl:
This is in response to your letter of March 16, 1976 concerning your
request for COIN ASSIST travel.
In keeping with past DoD practices, the Services are authorized to
provide space available for all dependent wives, accompanying dependent
children, and dependent parents of military personnel who are PW/MIA.
This authorization extends to parents of married PW/MIA personnel whose
wives elect not to attend the convention and to families of missing
civilians. Excluded from the authorization are family members of
individuals formerly in a missing status who have been declared deceased,
and those of returned prisoners of war.
The Air Force will again act as the executive agent. Eligible PW/MIA
family members should be advised to contact their respective service
casualty officer regarding their travel plans as soon as possible, but
no later than June 10, 1976. Families should also be advised that a
maximum effort should be made to reduce the number of individuals who
fail to show for scheduled transportation.
We will continue to provide whatever COIN ASSIST air travel support we
can. The resultant scheduling information, following completion of
Service arrangements based upon their receipt of eligible family travel
intentions, will be forwarded to you for your convenience.
Sincerely,
RquE.Shill
ROGER E. SHIELDS
Deputy Assistant Secretary
READUTION
AME
1775
[7/76]
PRESIDENT'S REMARKS TO NATIONAL
LEAGUE OF FAMILIES
Ladies and gentlemen of the National League of Families,
I welcome this chance to meet with you again.
I met with some of you when I was a Congressman, here
in Washington and at times in Grand Rapids. And I remember
vividly my meeting with your Board of Directors just before
I became President. That was one of my very last meetings as
Vice President, and the memory of it has stayed with me during
my time in the White House. I also recall my visit to this
Convention just a year ago, and the meeting I had a few days
later in-the Cabinet Room with your Board of Directors.
So I know of your pain. I share it. The American people
share it.
2
You have borne your tragic burden with incredible courage.
There is no one in this country who does not admire your bravery
and the dignity and fortitude with which you have carried on your
heartbreaking quest.
Many Americans sacrificed for the sake of freedom during
the Indochina conflict. Hundreds of thousands served in the field
and in this country. Tens of thousands gave their lives. Other
thousands bear the scars and disabilities of combat. Hundreds
endured long years of confinement as prisoners of war, with a
steadfastness and gallantry which has inspired us all.
But the hundreds more who are missing or unaccounted for
have also paid a cruel price. Most of them have undoubtedly made
the ultimate sacrifice. Yet the compounded cruelty of this group
is that you - their loved ones must live with the special agony
of uncertainty.
3
And so, in a very real sense you the families are casualties
too. There is no way any of us can fully share your torment. But
we can offer you our hearts and our unending dedication to your
cause.
You have been sustained by love -- love of your men; love
of your country. I am proud of you, as I am proud of your men.
Indeed we should all be proud of all who served and sacrificed for
their country in a difficult conflict.
This nation fought for a good
and noble cause -- to prevent a people from being overrun by force
of arms. In pursuing that cause, this nation has nothing to
apologize for, nothing to be ashamed of.
But we owe you not just admiration, not just gratitude, but
also dedication to pressing to the limit for a full accounting for
those who are still missing. Your country can never thank you
3
And so, in a very real sense you the families are casualties
too. There is no way any of us can fully share your torment. But
we can offer you our hearts and our unending dedication to your
cause.
You have been sustained by love -- love of your men; love
of your country. I am proud of you, as I am proud of your men.
Indeed we should all be proud of all who served and sacrificed for
their country in a difficult conflict.
This nation fought for a good
and noble cause - - to prevent a people from being overrun by force
of arms. In pursuing that cause, this nation has nothing to
apologize for, nothing to be ashamed of.
But we owe you not just admiration, not just gratitude, but
also dedication to pressing to the limit for a full accounting for
those who are still missing. Your country can never thank you
4
adequately for your sacrifice. But we can and we will persist
in our efforts to learn the fate of our men. International law
condemns exploiting prisoners of war or missing in action for
political or economic objectives. In the Paris Agreement, the
North Vietnamese agreed unconditionally to fulfill this obligation.
A new provision on accounting for the missing in armed conflicts
on which our government has been working in Geneva begins by
declaring "The right of families to know the fate of their loved ones. 11
All of us in your government are determined to fulfill that right
to the fullest extent it is possible.
The Vietnamese have spoken of agencies they have established
to search for the missing. Earlier they said they had information
on graves of our men who died when their planes went down. There
can be no acceptable reason for withholding such information from
us, and from you.
6
remains of three Americans. Two of them had been known to be
dead but the return of the remains brought some comfort to all
their families.
The efforts of this Government will continue. On Thursday,
Secretary Kissinger declared publicly that there will be no progress
toward improved relations with Hanoi until we have a wholly
satisfactory accounting for the missing in action. We will not
yield to cynical attempts to use the anguish of American families
to extort concessions. If the Vietnamese meet our concerns for
the MIA and show restraint toward their neighbors, they will find
this nation ready to reciprocate and to join in the effort to turn
a new page in our relations.
When that day comes, the Indochina War will be truly over.
7
I know, though, that for you the pain will never be finally
over.
Many of you are concerned about reclassification of status.
I understand your feelings, and I want you to know there is no
intention at this time to initiate status reviews.
It is my ultimate
responsibility to consider the views and circumstances of the
families of all of our missing, and I want to remove any question
in this regard.
As you have suggested, and as recommended by
John Rhodes and Sonny Montgomery, I have directed the Secretary
of Defense not to initiate any status reviews except in cases where
the primary next of kin request such a review, or where new
definitive evidence of status is obtained. This policy will continue
until the Select Committee report has been issued. and its funding
reviewed.
You have also expressed concern about the declassification
of materials concerning our missing. In May, I asked the
GERALD FORD LIBRARY
8
Secretary of Defense to look into this matter. He has informed
me that the military services have assigned additional personnel
to this effort and that declassification of documents in this area
is proceeding at an accelerated pace.
Let me say, in conclusion, that as long as I am President,
you will not be abandoned. Your loved ones will not be forgotten.
I pledge to you without reservation that we will carry this effort
through. This is a matter of conscience, of moral duty, for
us all. The country is united on this principle.
I thank you for the example you have set. I honor your
courage, on behalf of all Americans. I pray for the day when
your quest, and our quest, will be over.
Thank you.
substitute for FIRST Two paragraphs of last page -
Many of you are concerned about status reclassifications. I am
aware of your feelings, and I want you to know that status reviews
are not being initiated by the government. Further, in line with my
continuing responsibility to consider the views and circumstances
of the families of all of our missing and in order to remove any
personally
possible policy question, I have/explicity directed the Secretary
of Defense not to initiate any status reviews except in cases where
new definitive and unquestionable evidence of status is obtained.
Primary next of kin would continue to be permitted to initiate requests
for status reviews. In addition, when the Select Committee has
issued its report, I pledge to you that I will personally review and
evaluate its content and recommendations.
DiD DRAFT
MANY OF YOU ARE CONCERNED ABOUT STATUS RECLASSIFICATIONS. 1 AM
AWARE OF YOUR FEELINGS, AND I WANT YOU TO KNOW THERE IS NO CURRENT INTEN-
TION TO INITIATE STATUS REVIEWS, JUST AS SUGGESTED BY YOUR LEADERSHIP,
AND BY MY VALUED CONGRESSIONAL COLLEAGUES REPS. JOHN RHODES AND SONNY
MONTGOMERY.
1 LINE WITH MY RESPONSIBILITY TO CONSIDER THE VIEWS AND CIRCUMSTANCES
OF THE FAMILIES OF ALL OF OUR MISSING, AND TO REMOVE ANY QUESTION IN THIS
REGARD I HAVE DIRECTED THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE NOT TO INITIATE ANY STATUS
REVIEWS EXCEPT IN THOSE CASES WHERE THE PRIMARY NEXT OF KIN REQUEST SUCH
A REVIEW OR WHERE NEW DEFINITIVE EVIDENCE OF STATUS IS OBTAINED. THIS POLICY
WILL CONTINUE UNTIL THE SELECT COMMITTEE REPORT HAS BEEN ISSUED, THE SECRE-
TARY OF DEFENSE HAS REVIEWED IT, AND HE HAS REPORTED TO ME PERSONALLY
CONCERNING THE VIEWS AND RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE.
YOU HAVE ALSO EXPRESSED CONCERN ABOUT THE DECLASSIFICATION OF MATERIALS
CONCERNING OUR MISSING. IN MAY I ASKED THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE TO LOOK
INTO THE CURRENT STATE OF THIS MATTER. HE HAS INFORMED ME THAT THE MILITARY
SERVICES HAVE ALLOCATED ADDITIONAL PERSONNEL TO THIS EFFORT AND THAT DECLAS-
SIFICATION OF DOCUMENTS IN THIS AREA IS PROCEEDING AT AN ACCELERATED PACE.
WE RECOGNIZE OUR OBLIGATION TO OUR MISSING AND TO YOU THEIR FAMILIES.
THE PATH BEFORE us IS HARD AND DIFFICULT, BUT I WANT YOU TO KNOW THAT YOU
WILL NOT BE ABANDONED. 1 RENEW MY PLEDGE TO YOU TO CONTINUE OUR EFFORTS
TO ACHIEVE THE MOST COMPLETE ACCOUNTING POSSIBLE FOR OUR MISSING.
[7/76]
HANOI COMMENTARY ON FORD'S MIA TALK
"GERALD FORD'S UNSUCCESSFUL PSYCHOLOGICAL ATTACK"
(TEXT) On Sunday U.S. President Gerald Ford summoned the
representatives of 800 families of Americans registered as
Missing in Southeast Asia to the White House to hear his words
of sympathy.
While talking nineteen to the dozen, the U.S. President did not
mention a word about the reason for the deaths or Missing in
Action of hundreds of thousands of American youths in a region
half a world away from the states. He also went to lengths making
slanders against the people of Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia with
regard to the Missing in Action problem. By so doing, Gerald Ford
probably wanted to incite the chauvinistic feelings among Americans
to buy votes in the November Presidential elections.
However, Ford's psychological blow has missed the target because
he uttered ambiguities and failed to provide any concrete evidence.
At this White House meeting, Gerald Ford also missed his mark when
he said that there is no normalization of relations between the
United States and Vietnam so long as the Missing in Action problem
has not been settled.
Ford's blackmail is too obvious to take anybody in. Everybody
in the world knows that he is eating the U.S. promise to
contribute to the healing of the wounds of war and reconstruction
in Vietnam. The question is how the United States could break its
solemn promise to contribute to healing the wounds of war and
to the rebuilding of Vietnam, which is the responsibility and
obligation and a point of honor for America.
It is certain that the compatroits of Mr. Gerald Ford, the
Vietnamese people and the world public will not let him do what
he likes.
[7/76]
HANOI COMMENTARY ON FORD'S MIA TALK
"GERALD FORD'S UNSUCCESSFUL PSYCHOLOGICAL ATTACK"
(TEXT) On Sunday U.S. President Gerald Ford summoned the
representatives of 800 families of Americans registered as
Missing in Southeast Asia to the White House to hear his words
of sympathy.
While talking nineteen to the dozen, the U.S. President did not
mention a word about the reason for the deaths or Missing in
Action of hundreds of thousands of American youths in a region
half a world away from the states. He also went to lengths making
slanders against the people of Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia with
regard to the Missing in Action problem. By so doing, Gerald Ford
probably wanted to incite the chauvinistic feelings among Americans
to buy votes in the November Presidential elections.
However, Ford's psychological blow has missed the target because
he uttered ambiguities and failed to provide any concrete evidence.
At this White House meeting, Gerald Ford also missed his mark when
he said that there is no normalization of relations between the
United States and Vietnam so long as the Missing in Action problem
has not been settled.
Ford's blackmail is too obvious to take anybody in. Everybody
in the world knows that he is eating the U.S. promise to
contribute to the healing of the wounds of war and reconstruction
in Vietnam. The question is how the United States could break its
solemn promise to contribute to healing the wounds of war and
to the rebuilding of Vietnam, which is the responsibility and
obligation and a point of honor for America.
It is certain that the compatroits of Mr. Gerald Ford, the
Vietnamese people and the world public will not let him do what
he likes.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
July 8, 1976
MEMORANDUM TO:
JACK MARSH
FROM:
RUSS ROURKE
Jack, I have covered the waterfront again today on the MIA
transportation issue. Alan Woods has agreed to render a
final DOD judgement by Monday morning at the latest. Quite
understandably I am leaning very hard on Alan and DOD. I
have spoken today with the offices of Congressmen Sonny
Mongtomery and Ben Gilman and with Earl Hopper. In the
event a decision is not reached on this issue until Monday, I
have briefed Milt Mitler in great detail on the entire matter.
I have also advised Milt where to contact me at Quantico, if
necessary, on Monday.
I am presently optimistic about our chances for putting this
transportation request together.
FORD i LIBRARY GERVIC
July 8, 1976
MEMORANDUM TO:
JACK MARSH
FROM:
RUSS ROURKE
Jack, I have covered the water!funit again today on the MIA
transportation issue. Alan Woods has agreed to reader &
final DOD judgement by Monday morning at the latest. Quite
understandably I am leaning very hard on Alaa and DOD. I
have spoken today with the offices of Congressmen Seany
Mongtomery and Ben Gilman and with Earl Hopper. In the
event a decision is not reached on this issue until Monday, I
have briefed Milt Mitler in great detail on the entire matter.
I have also advised Milt where to contact me at Quantice, If
necessary, on Monday.
I am presently optimistic about our chances for putting this
transportation request together.
RAR:cb
GERALD FORD LIBRARY
To Russ
Date 7-8-76
Time 1:47
WHILE YOU WERE OUT
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THE WHITE HOUSE
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Sonny Montgomery
COINASSIST
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EFFICIENCY R LINE NO. 4725 AN AMPAD PRODUCT
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Transportation
1970
22-25 JULY
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THE WHITE HOUSE
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BERALD R. FORD)
13
all odds and the predictions of all the experts, that's just what the
colonists had done.
Well, we can turn the world right side up; the world of the family
and the neighborhood and the America we love.
It may take a struggle and some sacrifice, but isn't it worth it?
We can do it for ourselves, for our children and in repayment for all those
who did the back-breaking jobs that built this nation. They worked their
hearts out to give us a country where the right to be left alone, to pursue
happiness as we defined it, would be respected by men and by the law.
We ask nothing of freedom but freedom itself and that means the right
to control our own destiny without undue interference by an arrogant
officialdom.
There are those who no longer have faith in our ability to do this.
They still believe in government for the people, but of and by themselves;
that, given freedom of choice, we'll choose unwisely; that ours is a sick
society, salvageable only by their omnipotence.
Well, let them explain how a sick society produced the men who journeyed
out into space and set foot on the moon; or those other men, the ones we
waited for a few years ago, who came back to us proud and unbroken after
enduring torture at the hands of savage captors for a longer period than
any men in our history.
Have we forgotten how we waited in front of our TV sets through the
long night hours for that first plane to land at Clark Field in the Philippines?
We were filled with hope and fear; fear of what we might see; of what the
years of torture might have done to those we called the P.O.W.s.
Finally, the moment arrived. The plane was on the ground and we
waited-it seemed forever--for the door to open and the first man to appear.
(More)
- 14 -
Then, with some difficulty--but on his own-Jeremiah Denton, now Rear
Admiral Jeremiah Denton, made his way down the ramp. He saluted our country's
flag, thanked us for bringing them all home and then asked God's blessing
on America.
As the planes continued to bring our men home, Nancy and I were to
share an experience that will live in our hearts forever. We were permitted
to officially welcome the more than 250 who were Californians by having them
as guests in our home. Not all together, but in groups, on four such
occasions in all, until we had been privileged to meet and know all of them.
It was an unforgettable and inspiring experience. -On one of those evenings,
we watched two of our guests come together in our living room, apparently
strangers until they heard each other's names. Then they threw their arms
around each other. They were the closest of friends, knew the most intimate
details of each other's lives and families. Their friendship had been built
over the years of imprisonment by tapping coded messages on the mud and
bamboo wall that separated their cells. They had never seen each other
until they came face-to-face there in our living room.
On those four occasions, we heard tales of indescribable torture told
without any attempt at dramatics, with no rancor or bitterness and definitely
no attempt to beg sympathy. One man, for trying to escape, had been
buried up to his neck and left for weeks, his food thrown on the ground before
his face.
We heard of men tortured beyond the breaking point until lying on their
cell floors, they wanted to die because they had eventually told their
(More)
- 15 -
captors some of what they wanted to know. But in the adjoining cells,
others who had the same experience at one time or another took turns hour
after hour just tapping on the wall to let them know they understood
and to hang in there and not give up.
When they were asked why, if they knew they'd eventually break, why
they didn't give their captors the information they wanted without under-
going the torture, they seemed surprised. They said, "We were prisoners.
The only way we had left to fight the enemy was to hold out as long as we
could."
One young man (a fighter pilot who looked as if he should be a cheer
leader, maybe on a college campus) had shattered his arm and shoulder when
he bailed out after his plane was hit by anti-aircraft fire. They wanted
him to talk to two of our anti-war protesters who were guests in Hanoi.
He refused. They stood him on a stool, tied his shattered arm to a hook
in the wall and then kicked the stool from beneath his feet-not once, but
time after time until he gave in. In the meeting that followed, knowing his
words were being carefully monitored, he said he tried in every way he could
to indicate to these fellow Americans they weren't hearing the truth, but
he said, "I spoke to ears that refused to hear".
One night after our guests had gone and Nancy and I were alone, I
asked, "where did we find them, where did we find such men?" The answer
came to me almost as quickly as I'd asked the question. We found them
where we've always found them when such men are needed--on Main Street, on
our farms, in shops and stores, in offices, oil stations and factories.
They are simply the product of the freest society man has ever known.
(More)
-- 16 - -
In the darks days following World War II, when we alone, with our
industrial power and military might, stood between the world and a return
to the dark ages, Pope Pius the XII said, "The American people have a
genius for great and unselfish deeds. Into the hands of America God has
placed the destiny of an afflicted mankind."
God Bless America.
######
THE WHITE HOUSE
SCHEDULE PROPOSAL FOR THE PRESIDENT
WASHINGTON
DATE: July 14, 1976
FROM: Milton E. Mitler
May
THRU: John O. Marsh, Jr
VIA: William W. Nicholson
DROP BY:
Annual Meeting, National League of Families, Washington
Hilton Hotel, to give short remarks at Banquet
expressing continued interest of administration
in Missing In Action matters.
DATE:
Saturday, July 24, 1976 at approximately 8:30 pm.
PURPOSE:
To reassure members of the National League of.
Families that the administration continues to
have concern about those who are designated as
Missing In Action from the Southeast Asian conflict;
to emphasize the importance the President attaches
to this problem; and to reiterate the pledge that
the administration will continue efforts toward
obtaining as full an accounting as possible for all
our missing men.
FORMAT:
- location: Presidential Ballroom, Statler-Hilton
Hotel, Washington, D.C.
- participants: Members of the National League of
Families and their guests - approximately
550
- expected length: 10-15 minutes.
CABINET
PARTICIPATION:
None
SPEECH
MATERIAL:
To be supplied by NSC
PRESS
COVERAGE
Full Press
STAFF:
John 0. Marsh, Jr.
Milton E. Mitler
RECOMMEND:
John 0. Marsh, Jr.
Milton E. Mitler
Kenneth Quinn
OPPOSED:
None
Page 2
PREVIOUS
PARTICIPATION:
Last summer, the Presisent dropped-by the hotel
where the National League was meeting and had a
short, somewhat impromptu session with many
of their members. On July 22, 1976, the President
met with League leaders in the Cabinet Room.
BACKGROUND:
This organization, which is composed primarily of
wives and parents of those military men who have
been designated as Missing In Action in the Southeast
Asia conflict, has indicated satisfaction with
the response they have been receiving from this
administration in context with their concerns.
A willingness to open dialogue with North Vietnam,
cooperation with the Congressional Select Committee
headed by Congressman G.V. Montgomery (D-MS), and
recent references to the problem in speeches have
favorably impressed most of the members.
There are some members of the organization who are
pressing for an Executive Order instructing the
Department of Defense to halt changing the status
of some of the men from missing to dead. They have
also requested the release of all information in
the dossiers of these men.
The Department of Defense, at this point, has slowed
down its status change program and does not believe
an Executive Order is needed. They are also making
available as much information as is possible, trying
to satisfy the requests which they are receiving.
The obvious emotional factors involved with this,
the length of time which has now passed since the
designations were established, and the difficulty
which exists in securing sufficient information from
North Vietnam, all indicate the importance of the
President addressing the League.
During this annual meeting, the League will meet with
the Congressional Select Committee and will receive
briefings from State and Defense.
Page 3
An alternative to the annual banquet on Saturday,
July 24th, would be their general meeting on
Friday, July 23rd from 1:30-2:30 p.m. The League,
however, would much prefer the Saturday night
participation.
APPROVE
DISAPPROVE
NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL
July 14, 1976
TO:
MILT MITLER
FROM:
KEN QUINN
Presidential Meeting with National League of Families
Last Meeting:
You last met with the representatives of the National
League when you dropped in on thier 1975 annual convention
in Washington last summer.
Purpose:
To emphasize the importance which you continue to
attach to this problem and to reiterate your pledge that we
as
will continue efforts to obtain full accounting as possible
for all our missing men.
Background:
The National League of Families' members are
extremely pleased with the attention you have given
this issue and your efforts to resolve it. Your willingness
to open a dialogue with North Vietnam, cooperation
with the Montgomery Committee, and recent references
to the problem in speeches have all favorably impressed
the League. Nevertheless, some of the members and
the League leadership are pressing for an Executive Order
instructing the Defense Department to halt changing
the status of some of them from missing to dead
and for release of all information in the dossiers
of these men. Defense has slowed down its status
changes and does not believe an Executive Order is
needed. It is aleo moving to make available as much
is
information as/possible.
$PPr Droply at Barquet
of nott League of families
at statter Juding
July 2 SCHEDULING or ROUTING MEMO
7/15/76
Subject: July 23 1 1:30- 2:80 Originator: mitter
To Individual
Processed
Comments & March
1 W. Nicholson
W. Hendriks
Staff to:
H. Donaldson
M. Widner
M. Rawlins
N. Gemmell
L. Goltra
FORD LIBRARI
Return to:
Action:
GPO : 1976 O-213-139
THE WHITE HOUSE
SCHEDULE PROPOSAL FOR THE PRESIDENT
WASHINGTON
DATE: July 14, 1976
FROM: Milton E. Mitler
THRU: John 0. Marsh, Jr.
VIA: William W. Nicholson
DROP BY:
Annual Meeting, National League of Families, Washington
Hilton Hotel, to give short remarks at Banquet
expressing continued interest of administration
in Missing In Action matters.
DATE:
Saturday, July 24, 1976 at approximately 8:30 pm.
PURPOSE:
To reassure members of the National League of
Families that the administration continues to
have concern about those who are designated as
Missing In Action from the Southeast Asian conflict;
to emphasize the importance the President attaches
to this problem; and to reiterate the pledge that
the administration will continue efforts toward
obtaining as full an accounting as possible for all
our missing men.
FORMAT:
- location: Presidential Ballroom, Statler-Hilton
Hotel, Washington, D.C.
- participants: Members of the National League of
Families and their guests - approximately
550
- expected length: 10-15 minutes.
CABINET
PARTICIPATION:
None
SPEECH
MATERIAL:
To be supplied by NSC
PRESS
COVERAGE
Full Press
STAFF:
John 0. Marsh, Jr.
Milton E. Mitler
RECOMMEND:
John 0. Marsh, Jr.
Milton E. Mitler
OPPOSED:
None
Page 2
PREVIOUS
PARTICIPATION:
Last summer, the Presisent dropped-by the hotel
where the National League was meeting and had a
short, somewhat impromptu session with many
of their members. On July 22, 1976, the President
met with League leaders in the Cabinet Room.
BACKGROUND:
This organization, which is composed primarily of
wives and parents of those military men who have
been designated as Missing In Action in the Southeast
Asia conflict, has indicated satisfaction with
the response they have been receiving from this
administration in context with their concerns.
A willingness to open dialogue with North Vietnam,
cooperation with the Congressional Select Committee
headed by Congressman G.V. Montgomery (D-MS), and
recent references to the problem in speeches have
favorably impressed most of the members.
There are some members of the organization who are
pressing for an Executive Order instructing the
Department of Defense to halt changing the status
of some of the men from missing to dead. They have
also requested the release of all information in
the dossiers of these men.
The Department of Defense, at this point, has slowed
down its status change program and does not believe
an Executive Order is needed. They are also making
available as much information as is possible, trying
to satisfy the requests which they are receiving.
The obvious emotional factors involved with this,
the length of time which has now passed since the
designations were established, and the difficulty
which exists in securing sufficient information from
North Vietnam, all indicate the importance of the
President addressing the League.
During this annual meeting, the League will meet with
the Congressional Select Committee and will receive
briefings from State and Defense.
Page 3
An alternative to the annual banquet on Saturday,
July 24th, would be their general meeting on
Friday, July 23rd from 1:30-2:30 p.m. The League,
however, would much prefer the Saturday night
participation.
APPROVE
DISAPPROVE
NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL
July 14, 1976
TO:
MILT MITLER
FROM:
KEN QUINN
-
Presidential Meeting with National League of Families
Last Meeting:
You last met with the representatives of the National
League when you dropped in on thier 1975 annual convention
in Washington last summer.
Purpose:
To emphasize the importance which you continue to
attach to this problem and to reiterate your pledge that we
as
will continue efforts to obtain full accounting as possible
for all our missing men.
Background:
The National League of Families' members are
extremely pleased with the attention you have given
this issue and your efforts to resolve it. Your willingness
to open a dialogue with North Vietnam, cooperation
with the Montgomery Committee, and recent references
to the problem in speeches have all favorably impressed
the League. Nevertheless, some of the members and
the League leadership are pressing for an Executive Order
instructing the Defense Department to halt changing
the status of some of them from missing to dead
and for release of all information in the dossiers
of these men. Defense has slowed down its status
changes and does not believe an Executive Order is
needed. It is aleo moving to make available as much
is
information possible.
MIAS
July 15, 1976
ADMINISTRATIVELY CONFIDENTIAL
MEMORANDUM TO:
DICK CHENEY
FROM:
JACK MARSH
Dick, there is a Schedule Proposal on its way over in reference
to a drop by at the forthcoming National League of Families
Convention next week in Washington.
I believe there is some flexibility as to the time when the Presi-
dent might do this.
However, I think that in considering whether be does or does not
attend, there should be considered the fact that Reagan, in his
last statement, placed rather significant emphasis on the POWs'
return. Although the POW return is not directly related to the MIA
situation, nevertheless, there is a relationship between the two
which I think should be taken into account in preparing his schedule.
In the event the President does decide to do a drop by, I have asked
Breat to begin drafting appropriate remarks for him.
You should also be aware that we were able to work out with Defense
an arrangement for transportation for the eligible participants to
attend the Convention.
(Dictated over phone - not read)
AMOUNT GERALD 8 FORD
July 15, 1976
MEMORANDUM TO:
BRENT SCOWCROFT
FROM:
JACK MARSH
Breat, it has been proposed but not approved that the President
make a drop by at the National League of Families Convention
to be held in Washington next weekend. The drop by is for Satur-
day evening, but I believe this may be flexible.
In all events should a drop by be occurring, it would be helpful
if we could have prepared some appropriate remarks for the
President dealing with the MIA matter.
(Dictated but not read)
JOM:cb
FORD is LIBRARY 076839
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
'76 J'll 16 P:! 6
6 JUL 16 PM 6 07
LDX MESSAGE RECEIPT
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
SITUATION ROOM
SITE
TB3
DN
S/S #
LDX MESSAGE NO. 0827
7
CLASSIFICATION UNCLASSIELED
No. Pages
FROM: J.D. ROSENTHAL
EA/VLC
23132
5206
(Officer name)
(Office symbol) (Extension)
(Room number)
NESSAGE DESCRIPTION DRAFT
LDX TO: (Agency)
DELIVER TO:
Extension
Room No.
NSC
KEN QUINN
395-5628 369
REMARKS:
DRAFT REQUESTED BY MR. QUINN.
RECEIVED
JuL 16 6 21PH '76 21 PH *76
NATIONAL SECURITY
S/S Officer: HOW
TIONSCO
BERALO FORD TBRART
IT IS A PLEASURE TO BE HERE THIS EVENING TO JOIN WITH
FRIENDS OLD AND NEW TO TALK ABOUT OUR BRAVE MEN WHO REMAIN
UNACCOUNTED FOR IN SOUTHEAST ASIA, I MET WITH SOME OF YOU
WHEN I WAS A CONGRESSMAN FROM MICHIGAN, HERE IN WASHINGTON
AS WELL AS IN GRAND RAPIDS. FROM THOSE EARLY CONTACTS YOU
KNOW MY INTEREST IN OUR MISSING MEN IS OF LONG STANDING.
AND I REMEMBER MY MEETING WITH YOUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS
JUST BEFORE I BECAME PRESIDENT. THIS WAS ONE OF MY VERY LAST
MEETINGS AS VICE PRESIDENT, AND THE MEMORY OF IT HAS STAYED
WITH ME DURING MY TIME IN THE WHITE HOUSE. I ALSO RECALL
MY VISIT TO THIS CONVENTION JUST A YEAR AGO, AND THE MEETING
I HAD A FEW DAYS LATER IN THE CABINET ROOM WITH YOUR BOARD
OF DIRECTORS. THOSE MEETINGS WERE HELPFUL TO ME IN KEEPING
UP TO DATE ON YOUR CONCERNS, AND THEY CONFIRMED MY RESOLVE
TO CONTINUE OUR BEST EFFORTS TO OBTAIN THE FULLEST POSSIBLE
ACCOUNTING FOR OUR MEN,
MANY AMERICANS SACRIFICED MUCH FOR THE SAKE OF FREEDOM
DURING THE INDOCHINA CONFLICT. HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS SERVED
OUR COUNTRY IN THE FIELD AND AT HOME. THOUSANDS GAVE THEIR
LIVES OR BEAR THE SCARS OF INJURIES, HUNDREDS ENDURED LONG
YEARS OF CONFINEMENT AS PRISONERS OF WAR WITH A STEADFASTNESS
AND GALLANTRY WHICH HAS INSPIRED US ALL.
- 2 -
AND THERE ARE THE HUNDREDS MORE WHO HAVE BEEN LISTED
AS MISSING OR UNACCOUNTED FOR. IN A SENSE THEIR FATE IS THE
CRUELEST OF ALL. I AM SURE THAT IF THOSE MEN KNEW THE FRUS-
TRATION AND SUFFERING THAT THE LACK OF INFORMATION ABOUT
Hont
THEM HAS CAUSED, THEY WOULD HAVE PREFERRED THAT THEIR FATE
BE OTHERWISE, FOR THE SUFFERING IS NOT THEIRS so MUCH AS
YOURS -- THEIR LOVED ONES WHO HAVE WAITED THROUGH THE YEARS
FOR THE WORD THAT WOULD ANSWER THE QUESTIONS -- WHAT HAS
HAPPENED TO HIM, WHERE IS HE NOW?
A NEW PROVISION ON ACCOUNTING FOR THE MISSING IN ARMED
CONFLICTS ON WHICH OUR GOVERNMENT HAS BEEN WORKING IN GENEVA
BEGINS BY STATING "THE RIGHT OF FAMILIES TO KNOW THE FATE OF
THEIR LOVED ONES," I KNOW THAT ALL OF YOU HERE TODAY CAN
ATTEST FROM YOUR HEARTS AS TO THE IMPORTANCE OF THAT RIGHT.
AND ALL OF US IN YOUR GOVERNMENT ARE DETERMINED TO FULFILL
IT TO THE FULLEST POSSIBLE EXTENT.
AT THE SAME TIME, WE RECOGNIZE THAT INFORMATION ON EVERY
MISSING MAN MAY NEVER BE AVAILABLE, SOME WERE LOST OVER
WATER, OR IN FORESTS AND MOUNTAINS WHERE SEARCH IS PRACTICALLY
IMPOSSIBLE. WE KNOW OF CASES WHERE AIRCRAFT HAVE BEEN LOST
WITH NO TRACE, WITH WRECKAGE SOMETIMES FOUND MANY YEARS LATER.
AND WE UNDERSTAND SUCH CIRCUMSTANCES ALSO EXIST IN SOUTHEAST
ASIA.
-3-
BUT THE FACT THAT THE SEARCH MAY BE DIFFICULT IS NOT A
REASON NOT TO TRY, WE HAVE OFFERED TO CARRY OUT THE SEARCHES
OURSELF, OR TO ENLIST ANOTHER GOVERNMENT, OR THE RED CROSS,
FOR THIS PURPOSE. ANY OF THESE POSSIBILITIES WOULD HELP
ACCOUNT FOR OUR MEN,
THE VIETNAMESE AUTHORITIES HAVE SPOKEN OF AGENCIES THEY
HAVE ESTABLISHED TO SEARCH FOR THE MISSING, EARLIER THEY
SAID THEY HAVE INFORMATION ON GRAVES OF OUR MEN WHO DIED
WHEN THEIR PLANES WENT DOWN. THERE CAN BE NO VALID REASON
TO KEEP SUCH INFORMATION FROM THE FAMILIES IN THE MISTAKEN
BELIEF THAT IT CAN BE USED FOR BARGAINING PURPOSES,
WE RECALL HOW THE AUTHORITIES OF NORTH VIETNAM SOUGHT
TO EXPLOIT OUR PRISONERS OF WAR IN PURSUIT OF NEGOTIATING
ADVANTAGE. WE RESISTED THAT AND TOOK STEPS TO INSURE THAT
THE RELEASE OF OUR MEN WOULD TAKE PLACE WITHOUT DELAY AS
PART OF THE INDOCHINA SETTLEMENT.
ATTEMPTS TO USE A HUMANITARIAN SUBJECT LIKE PRISONERS
OF WAR AND THE MISSING IN ACTION TO GAIN POLITICAL OBJECTIVES
FLY IN THE FACE OF BASIC CONCEPTS OF INTERNATIONAL HUMANI-
TARIAN LAW, THE GENEVA CONVENTIONS OF 1949, WHICH VIETNAM
HAS SIGNED, SHOULD BE IMPLEMENTED WITHOUT RESORT TO BARGAINING
OR UNRELATED RECIPROCITY. I FIND IT SERIOUSLY DISTURBING
-4-
THAT THE NEW AUTHORITIES IN INDOCHINA SHOULD TRY TO USE
THIS HUMANITARIAN SUBJECT TO PRESS FOR POLITICAL OR
ECONOMIC ADVANTAGE.
I HAVE SAID BEFORE THAT WE ARE PREPARED TO RESPOND
TO GESTURES OF GOOD WILL IN THE ACCOUNTING FOR THE MISSING
AND THE RETURN OF THE REMAINS OF THE DEAD. SAD TO REPORT,
DESPITE THE LARGE NUMBERS OF MEN WHO REMAIN UNACCOUNTED FOR
IN INDOCHINA, VIRTUALLY NO INFORMATION HAS BEEN RECEIVED SINCE
I MADE THAT STATEMENT, AND THE SMALL NUMBER OF REMAINS THAT
HAVE BEEN RETURNED WERE OF MEN ON WHOM INFORMATION HAD
EARLIER BEEN MADE AVAILABLE.
I WANT TO PAY TRIBUTE TO THE WORK OF THE HOUSE
SELECT COMMITTEE ON MISSING PERSONS IN SOUTHEAST ASIA, AND
TO ITS DISTINGUISHED CHAIRMAN, G.V. "SONNY" MONTGOMERY, MY
COLLEAGUE AND CLOSE FRIEND DURING MANY YEARS IN THE HOUSE
OF REPRESENTATIVES. CONGRESSMAN MONTGOMERY WAS INSTRUMENTAL
IN ESTABLISHING THIS COMMITTEE, AND UNDER HIS LEADERSHIP IT
HAS DONE MUCH TO ENCOURAGE PROGRESS TOWARDS RESOLUTION OF
THIS HUMANITARIAN PROBLEM.
THIS COMMITTEE TOOK THE INITIATIVE TO OPEN CONTACT WITH
THE AUTHORITIES OF NORTH VIETNAM, AT A TIME WHEN OUR OWN EFFORTS
TO OBTAIN AN ACCOUNTING WERE LARGELY FRUSTRATED. MEMBERS OF
THE COMMITTEE MET WITH NORTH VIETNAMESE OFFICIALS IN PARIS
-5-
AND HANOI, AND WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF THE U.N. HIGH COMMISSIONER
FOR REFUGEES, ARRANGED FOR THE RETURN OF THE REMAINS OF THREE
AMERICANS FROM NORTH VIETNAM. ALTHOUGH TWO OF THOSE THREE
HAD PREVIOUSLY BEEN DECLARED DEAD, THE RETURN OF THE REMAINS
BROUGHT COMFORT TO ALL THEIR FAMILIES,
THE SELECT COMMITTEE HAS CONTINUED ITS EFFORTS TO PRESS
THE COMMUNIST AUTHORITIES ON ACCOUNTING FOR THE MISSING,
AND ON THE DEPARTURE OF AMERICANS STILL STRANDED IN SOUTH
VIETNAM. SONNY MONTGOMERY AND HIS COLLEAGUES HAVE KEPT ME
INFORMED ABOUT THEIR EFFORTS, AND I WANT TO TAKE THIS MOMENT
TO THANK THEM FOR THE SKILL AND DEDICATION THEY HAVE BROUGHT
TO BEAR ON THIS DIFFICULT PROBLEM.
OUR OWN EFFORTS ARE CONTINUING. WE HAVE SENT MESSAGES TO
THE VIETNAMESE INDICATING OUR WILLINGNESS TO DISCUSS OUTSTANDING
ISSUES. IN THIS ONGOING EXCHANGE WE HAVE MADE CLEAR THAT OUR
PRIMARY CONCERN IS OBTAINING AN ACCOUNTING FOR OUR MISSING-
IN-ACTION AND THE RETURN OF OUR SERVICEMEN WHO GAVE THEIR LIVES
FOR OUR COUNTRY, WE ARE WILLING TO TALK WITH THE VIETNAMESE,
BUT WITHOUT A SATISFACTORY RESOLUTION OF THE MIA ISSUE, NO
FURTHER PROGRESS IN OUR RELATIONS IS POSSIBLE. THERE ARE OTHER
PROBLEMS AS WELL, BUT SURELY PROGRESS ON THIS HUMANITARIAN
SUBJECT IS THE ESSENTIAL FIRST STEP,
-6-
Exception cases where the primary.net
of kin requests status remow or where new
definitive endire is affaird
MANY OF YOU ARE CONCERNED ABOUT STATUS RECLASSIFICATIONS.
I AM AWARE OF YOUR FEELINGS, AND I WANT YOU TO KNOW THERE IS
NO CURRENT INTENTION TO INITIATE STATUS REVIEWS, As SUGGESTED
BY YOUR LEADERSHIP, AND BY MY VALUED CONGRESSIONAL COLLEAGUES
REPS, JOHN RHODES AND SONNY MONTGOMERY, WE WILL WAIT BEFORE
CONSIDERING THIS QUESTION UNTIL THE FINAL REPORT OF THE
SELECT COMMITTEE HAS BEEN PUBLISHED My ASSURANCE TO YOU ON
THIS ACCOMPLISHES THE PURPOSE OF THE EXECUTIVE ORDER THAT SOME
OF YOU HAVE SUGGESTED, IT PROVIDES ADDITIONAL TIME FOR
REFLECTION AND CONSIDERATION OF THE DIFFICULT QUESTIONS
INVOLVED.
AT THE SAME TIME YOU HAVE MY ASSURANCE WE WILL CONTINUE
TO USE ALL AVAILABLE MEANS TO PRESS FORWARD ON THIS SUBJECT,
FOR WE RECOGNIZE OUR OBLIGATION TO OUR MEN, AND TO THEIR FAMILIES
WHO CONTINUE TO WAIT, THEIR COURAGE IS MATCHED BY YOURS, AND ME
HONOR YOU FOR IT.
IN A SENSE THOSE WHO REMAIN UNACCOUNTED FOR ARE THE TRUE
UNKOWN SOLDIERS OF THIS CONFLICT. SINCE THEY ARE THE ONES WHOSE
REMAINS HAVE NOT FOUND A SAFE RESTING PLACE IN OUR HOMELAND.
powl MMA
changetend out
LIBRARY GERALD FORD
-7-
WE WILL REMAIN TRUE TO THEIR MEMORY BY CONTINUING
OUR EFFORTS TO SEEK INFORMATION ABOUT THEM UNTIL WE ARE
SATISFIED THAT THE FULLEST POSSIBLE ACCOUNTING HAS BEEN
ACHIEVED,