Folder, "Memos, [Cables, memos, reports, and other material, 11/63-5/67] Vol. XVI, 8/16‑31/64, 2 of 2," Vietnam Country File, NSF, Box 7

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4478 175 SPECIAL ASSISTANT TO THE SECRETARY OF STATE WASHINGTON CONFIDENTIAL August 24, 1964 DECLASSIFIED Authority State lu 2/20/188 By ring NARS, Date 4/10/78 MEMORANDUM FOR: Mr. McGeorge Bundy FROM: Mr. Michael V. Forrestal up SUBJECT: Q and A and Historical Background Paper on Vietnam I attach two documents prepared by people in Bob Manning's and my offices: a Q and A paper on policy toward South Vietnam and an historical background paper setting forth the official view of past events. Both these documents have been reviewed ex- tensively here, in DOD, the Agency, AID and USIA. The Q and A is the more politically important of the two, since it deals with the present and future in terms of policy. I have read it quite carefully, and I think it is a good job. It is ready for printing and could be distributed at the end of the week. I think time is important, because the longer we wait, the more it looks like a campaign document. Could you take a look at it this evening, and let me know tomorrow what you think? The historical background paper has been checked by "scholars" in INR and the Agency for historical accuracy. It appears to me to be internally consistent, and I think is worth getting out at the same time as the Q and A, since it would stand as a companion piece. Both will be made available to newspapermen and scholars. The background paper would go to libraries and educational institutions as well. Bob Manning assures me that both papers will be attractively presented and will include suitable maps, pictures and charts. Attachments CONFIDENTIAL COPYLBJLIBRARY

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