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4/29/75 - Final Evacuation of Saigon (2)
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4/29/75 - Final Evacuation of Saigon (2)
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John O. Marsh Files (Ford Administration)
John Marsh's War Powers Notifications Files
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The original documents are located in Box 122, folder "4/29/75 - Final Evacuation of
Saigon (2)" 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States of America his copyrights in all of his unpublished writings in National Archives collections.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 122 of The John Marsh Files at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library
Conversation Memo
0:900
4-29-75
The air evacuation by helicopter which you were advised of last night is still
underway and is expected to be completed by about mid-day.
The evacuation is located principally at two places: the airport and the Embassy
is being
complex. It is understood that the airport
completed
are being
and security forces have been withdrawn from there.
Approximately 35 Americans were removed by boat from Can Tho in the Delta
when the evacuation began.
FORD & LIBRAR GERALD RALD
At this time the evacuation is continuing from the Embassy where it is estimated
about 2, 000 persons are scheduled to be airlifted, of which about 200 are American
evacuees and approximately 200 are security forces.
Since the evacuation began, it has been learned that the number of Vietnamese
represent a substantial portion of those leaving. Any figures that we now have
are merely estimates. However, at the Leader ship Meeting which you at are invited
to attend at 11:30, you will be given more precise figures on evacuees including
10:05 Mcclellan- I just to make sure weget
all american out
Americans and Vietnamese.
10: Am Stennis - no problems or comment
10:08 Eastland - that means they are going
to occupy saigou.
-2-
The local situation in Saigon at the time of the evacuation necessitated a change
in evacuation plans to include substantially larger numbers of Vietnamese than
originally estimated last night.
Insofar as U.S. casualties are concerned, these include the two U.S. Marines that
were killed earlier yesterday before the evacuation began, and a fighter bomber is
reported to be lost into the sea but the circumstances of its crash have not been
determined insofar as hostile action is concerned. With these two exceptions,
there are no other U.S. casulaties.
FORD & LIBRARY RALD
33
About 10:00 AM
29 Apr. '75
The air evacuation by helicopter which you were advised of last night is still
underway and is expected to be completed by about mid-day.
The evacuation is located principally at two places: the airport and the Embassy
complex. It is understood that the airport evacuation is being completed and
security forces are being withdrawn from there. Approximately 35 Americans
were removed by boat from Can Tho in the Delta when the evacuation began.
At this time the evacuation is continuing from the Embassy where it is estimated
about 2,000 persons are scheduled to be airlifted, of which about 200 are American
evacuees and approximately 200 are security forces.
Since the evacuation began, it has been learned that the number of Vietnamese
represent a substantial portion of those leaving. Any figures that we now have
are merely estimated. However, at the Leadership Meeting which you are invited
to attend at 11: 30, you will be given more precise figures on evacuees including
Americans and Vietnamese.
FORD is LIBRARY RALD
39
-2-
The local situation in Saigon at the time of the evacuation necessitated a change
in evacuation plans to include substantially larger numbers of Vietnamese than
originally estimated last night.
Insofar as U.S. casualties are concerned, these include the two U.S. Marines that
were killed earlier yesterday before the evacuation began, and a fighter bomber is
reported to be lost into the sea but the circumstances of its crash have not been
determined insofar as hostile action is concerned. With these two exceptions,
there are no other U.S. casualties.
GE GERALD
RALD R. FORD LIBRAR r
Memo to President, re:
Leadership mtg, War Power
Act (w/2 attachments)
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
April 29, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR:
THE PRESIDENT
RALD GE R. FORD SBRART
FROM:
JACK MARSH
As you are aware there is a question as to whether the War Powers Act applies
in a rescue operation involving American citizens; however, to be on the safe
side, we proceeded as though it does and consequently sought to comply with
the Consultation Provision of the Act on the Saigon airlift.
These phone consultations began earlier this morning at about 12: 30 a.m. shortly
before the carrier lift off of the helicopters participating in the operation.
Leadership of the House and Senate and Jurisdictional Committees to include
Appropriations were called by members of the White House Congressional Staff.
There were a few cases where members could not be reached either because they
were out of the City or their phone did not answer. Where a member could not
be reached, a senior member of their staff was contacted, except in the case of
three members in the Senate.
There is attached a summary of these early morning notifications.
Because the large number of Vietnamese evacuated exceeded initial plans
and the advice given on the first notification to the Congressional leaders, a
second consultation call was made at about 10: 00 this morning to update these
individuals. You are familar with the message contained in the second conversa-
tion and a copy is attached.
It is important should the question occur as to why consultations or notifications
did not occur earlier, for you to point out that in your public statements over the
past several weeks, as well as statements by members of the Administration and
your request for legislation for evacuation and the statements before Congressional
Committees by witnesses clearly put the Congress on notice of the impending
evacuation operation.
You might expect questions on the status and future of pending legislation related
to this subject matter.
The air evacuation by helicopter which you were advised of last night is still
underway and is expected to be completed by about mid-day.
The evacuation is located principally at two places: the airport and the Embassy
complex. It is understood that the airport evacuation is being completed and
security forces are being withdrawn from there. Approximately 35 Americans
were removed by boat from Can Tho in the Delta when the evacuation began.
At this time the evacuation is continuing from the Embassy where it is estimated
about 2,000 persons are scheduled to be airlifted, of which about 200 are American
evacuees and approximately 200 are security forces.
Since the evacuation began, it has been learned that the number of Vietnamese
represent a substantial portion of those leaving. Any figures that we now have
are merely estimated. However, at the Leadership Meeting which you are invited
to attend at 11: 30, you will be given more precise figures on evacuees including
Americans and Vietnamese.
FORD & LIBRARY RALD
-2-
The local situation in Saigon at the time of the evacuation necessitated a change
in evacuation plans to include substantially larger numbers of Vietnamese than
originally estimated last night.
Insofar as U.S. casualties are concerned, these include the two U.S. Marines that
were killed earlier yesterday before the evacuation began, and a fighter bomber is
reported to be lost into the sea but the circumstances of its crash have not been
determined insofar as hostile action is concerned. With these two exceptions,
there are no other U.S. casualties.
A
FORD
RALD
WIT
3)
W
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
April 29, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR:
JOHN MARSH
THROUGH:
MAX FRIEDERSDORF
VERN LOEN VL
FROM:
SUBJECT:
Congressional calls on the Vietnam
evacuation - April 29
GERALD 10 R. FORD LIBE
MEMBER:
Speaker Albert
DATE:
4/29/75
TIME:
12:45 a.m.
PLACE:
At the home of Mike Reed
CONTACT:
Vern Loen spoke with Mike Reed who is
Administrative Assistant to the Speaker
COMMENTS:
O.K. - Speaker is out of town, will relay word.
FORD A LIBRA 97
MEMBER:
Minority Leader John Rhodes
DATE:
4/29/75
TIME:
12:30 a.m.
PLACE:
At his home asleep
CONTACT:
Vern Loen spoke personally with Mr. Rhodes
COMMENTS:
It's about time
RALD R. FORD
MEMBER:
Rep. George Mahon
DATE:
4/29/75
TIME:
12:55 a. m.
PLACE:
At the home of Keith Mainland
CONTACT:
Vern Loen spoke with Keith Mainland who is
Chief Counsel - Appropriations Committee
COMMENTS:
Good under circumstances. You've heard
reaction on Hill.
FORD A GALD LIBRAR
MEMBER:
Rep. William Broomfield
DATE:
4/29/75
TIME:
12:48 a.m.
PLACE:
At the home of Everett Bierman
CONTACT:
Vern Loen spoke with Ev Bierman who is
Minority Counsel for the International Relations Committee
COMMENTS:
All Americans? Broomfield on red-eye special
coming in from San Francisco.
FORD of RALD LIBRA
MEMBER:
Rep. Elford Cederberg
DATE:
4/29/75
TIME:
12:40 a.m.
PLACE:
At his home asleep
CONTACT:
Vern Loen spoke personally with Rep. Cederberg
COMMENTS:
Sending troops in? O.K., Thanks.
FORD of RALD LIBRA
MEMBER:
Rep. John McFall
DATE:
4/29/75
TIME:
12:41 a.m.
PLACE:
Residence
CONTACT:
Doug Bennett talked personally with Rep. McFall
COMMENTS:
Thank you - good luck.
RALD R. FORD LIBRART r
GE
MEMBER:
Rep. Mel Price
DATE:
4/29/75
TIME:
12:38 a. m.
PLACE:
Residence
CONTACT:
Doug Bennet talked personally with Rep. Price
COMMENTS:
Thank you, sorry you have to work so late.
FORD & HALD LIBRAR
&
MEMBER:
Rep. Bob Wilson
DATE:
4/29/75
TIME:
12:35 a. m.
PLACE:
Residence
CONTACT:
Doug Bennett talked personally with Rep. Wilson
COMMENTS:
Q - Does this mean evacuation of South Vietnamese
will not continue?
A - I don't know - probably will depend upon situation
in Saigon after the extraction.
FORD A LIBRAR RALD
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
April 29, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR:
MAX L. FRIEDERSDORF
FROM:
WILLIAM T. KENDALL WIK
SUBJECT:
Notification of Senate Leadership
of the evacuation of Saigon
The attached log indicates the Senators reached by William Kendall,
Pat O'Donnell, and Bob Wolthuis this day relative to the notification
of the Leadership of the evacuation of Saigon.
FORD A RALD LIBRARY 30
I
April 29, 1975
SENATOR
TIME
W.H. CALLER
COMMENT
Mansfield
12:30 a.m.
WK
Oh Lord -- Thanks for calling.
Scott
12:35 a. m.
WK
Expected it. Called for it yesterda
Thurmond
7:15 a.m.
WK
Approved. Asked questions about
military situation near Saigon
Stennis
12:35 a. m.
RKW
Hope all goes well. Thanks
McClellan
12:30 a.m.
RKW
Good luck. Thank you
Eastland
12:38 a.m.
RKW
Not available. Talked to Courtney
Pace. Did not give notice, but
tried to find whereabouts of
Eastland.
Griffin
12:22 a.m.
POD
"Thank you-hope it works out. "
Sparkman
12:30 a.m.
POD
"Thanks for letting me know;
I'll be relieved when we get
the last American out. "
Case
12:35 a.m.
POD
"Thanks very much; I appreciate
your letting me know. 11
Byrd
7:20 a.m.
WK
Glad we are doing it. Asked if
Vietnamese were included.
Young
12:30 - 1:00 a.m. POD
Not reachable
FORD HALD & RALD LIBRARY
Second Notification
Vietnam Evacuation (Saigon)
Tuesday, Morning 4/29
SENATOR
TIME
W.H. CALLER
COMMENT
Griffin
10:15 a. m.
POD
"chank you -- I'll look forward
to details at the 11:30 Bipartisan
Leadership meeting. "
Robert Byrd
10:24 a. m.
POD
"Thank you; how many VN went
out last night and this morning? "
Sparkman
10:20 a.m.
POD
"Thank you for letting me know.
I'll have to leave the 11:30
meeting early--am hosting
luncheon for King Hussain. 11
Young
10:22
POD
Senator on plane back to D.C.
from Minneapolis. Gave
statement to Gordon West
who will meet at airport and
drive him to 11: 30 Bipartisan
Leadership Meeting.
Case
10:18
POD
Francis Henderson, A.A. advises
that Bill Kendall has already
called with the information
Mansfield
10:15
WK
Thanked WK. No comment.
Looking forward to 11:30
meeting.
Scott
10:44
WK
Took information. No comment
General approval of the way things
were going so far.
Thurmond
10:30
WK
No comment. Asked if South
Vietnamese Air Force could
get heavy equipment out.
FORD A RALD LIBRAR or
Case
10:35
WK
Not available. Gave information to AA
(Frances Henderson) who said it would be
transmitted to Senator Case as soon as he
arrived.
McClellan
10:05
RKW
Just want to make sure all Americans get out
Stennis
10:00
RKW
No comment
Eastland
10:08
RKW
This means they will occupy Saigon. Tragic.
Humphrey
10:45
WK
(at request of
He thanked for a very complete briefing.
Appreciated Secretary's thoughtfulness.
Sec: Kissinger)
FORD III O7 LIBRAR
MEMBER:
Rep. Bob Michel
DATE:
4/29/75
TIME:
12:28 a. m.
PLACE:
At his home in Washington, D. C.
CONTACT:
Charles Leppert spoke personally with Rep. Michel
COMMENTS:
I guess that helo operations means the use of troops?
Yes, to secure landing zones.
How many?
Approximately 1200 Marines will be used to secure the
landing zones. The operation will also have U.S.
tactical air support.
How many do we have to get out?
Approximately 900 Americans and some Vietnamese
personnel but primarily - 98% U.S. personnel.
When will this take place?
Operation will begin at approximately 12:45 to 1:00 a.m.
our time tonight EDST.
FORD IN LIBRANT RALD of
MEMBER:
Rep. Thomas E. Morgan
DATE:
4/29/75
TIME:
12:42 a. m.
PLACE:
In Washington, D. C.
CONTACT:
Charles Leppert spoke with Rep. Morgan personally.
COMMENTS:
Going to use helicopters?
Yes.
That's too bad because I have that resolution on
humanitarian and evacuation aid up tomorrow.
I wish it could have been delayed another day at least.
R. FORD LIST
MEMBER:
Rep. Thomas P. "Tip" O'Neill
DATE:
4/29/75
TIME:
12:49 a.m.
PLACE:
Washington, D.C.
CONTACT:
Charles Leppert talked personally with Rep. O'Neill
COMMENTS:
How many Americans do we have to get out?
Approximately 900 Americans with some Vietnamese.
How many Vietnamese did we get out today?
Do not know the number taken out today but we have
evacuated approximately 38, 000 who are staged at
Subic Bay, Guam and Wake Island.
Do you expect some problems ?
We do expect some problems but are using approximately
1200 Marines and U.S. tactical air-support to secure the
operation.
"That's too bad that we have to go this route. "
"Charlie, tell the President thank you for informing me. 1
ALD LIBRA ? FORD
Memo to President, (short
one) re:conversation memo
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
April 29, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR:
THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
JACK MARSH
This is the final conversation guide used by the Cong-
ressional people in conferring by phone with the Leader-
ship.
FORD & LIBRARY RALO
GE
The air evacuation by helicopter which you were advised of last night is still
underway and is expected to be completed by about mid-day.
The evacuation is located principally at two places: the airport and the Embassy
complex. It is understood that the airport evacuation is being completed and
security forces are being withdrawn from there. Approximately 35 Americans
were removed by boat from Can Tho in the Delta when the evacuation began.
At this time the evacuation is continuing from the Embassy where it is estimated
about 2,000 persons are scheduled to be airlifted, of which about 200 are American
evacuees and approximately 200 are security forces.
Since the evacuation began, it has been learned that the number of Vietnamese
represent a substantial portion of those leaving. Any figures that we now have
are merely estimated. However, at the Leadership Meeting which you are invited
to attend at 11: 30, you will be given more precise figures on evacuees including
Americans and Vietnamese.
FORD & LIBRARY RALE
-2-
The local situation in Saigon at the time of the evacuation necessitated a change
in evacuation plans to include substantially larger numbers of Vietnamese than
originally estimated last night.
Insofar as U.S. casualties are concerned, these include the two U.S. Marines that
were killed earlier yesterday before the evacuation began, and a fighter bomber is
reported to be lost into the sea but the circumstances of its crash have not been
determined insofar as hostile action is concerned. With these two exceptions,
there are no other U.S. casualties.
FORD & LIBRA
Memo to Kissinger re:
conversation guide
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
April 29, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR:
SECRETARY KISSINGER
FROM:
JACK MARSH
This is the final conversation guide used by the Cong-
ressional people in conferring by phone with the Leader-
ship.
RALD LERAM ? FORD
E
The air evacuation by helicopter which you were advised of last night is still
underway and is expected to be completed by about mid-day.
The evacuation is located principally at two places: the airport and the Embassy
complex. It is understood that the airport evacuation is being completed and
security forces are being withdrawn from there. Approximately 35 Americans
were removed by boat from Can Tho in the Delta when the evacuation began.
At this time the evacuation is continuing from the Embassy where it is estimated
about 2,000 persons are scheduled to be airlifted, of which about 200 are American
evacuees and approximately 200 are security forces.
Since the evacuation began, it has been learned that the number of Vietnamese
represent a substantial portion of those leaving. Any figures that we now have
are merely estimated. However, at the Leadership Meeting which you are invited
to attend at 11: 30, you will be given more precise figures on evacuees including
Americans and Vietnamese.
07 R. FORD LIB
-2-
The local situation in Saigon at the time of the evacuation necessitated a change
in evacuation plans to include substantially larger numbers of Vietnamese than
originally estimated last night.
Insofar as U.S. casualties are concerned, these include the two U.S. Marines that
were killed earlier yesterday before the evacuation began, and a fighter bomber is
reported to be lost into the sea but the circumstances of its crash have not been
determined insofar as hostile action is concerned. With these two exceptions,
there are no other U.S. casualties.
FORD OF A LIBRA 0
Statement by the
President, April 29, 1975
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
APRIL 29, 1975
Office of the White House Press Secretary
THE WHITE HOUSE
STATEMENT BY THE PRESIDENT
During the past week, I had ordered the reduction of American personnel in
the United States mission in Saigon to levels that could be quickly evacuated
during an emergency, while enabling that mission to continue to fulfill its duties
During the day on Monday, Washington time, the airport at Saigon came under
persistent rocket as well as artillery fire and was effectively closed. The
military situation in the area deteriorated rapidly.
I, therefore, ordered the evacuation of all American personnel remaining in
South Viet Nam.
The evacuation has been completed. I commend the personnel of the Armed
Forces who accomplished it, as well as Ambassador Graham Martin and the
staff of his mission who served so well under difficult conditions.
This action closes a chapter in the American experience. I ask all Americans
to close ranks, to avoid recrimination about the past, to look ahead to the
many goals we share and to work together on the great tasks that remain to
be accomplished.
#
#
#
RALD LIBRA A. FORD
Ltr. from Presiden to
Speaker & President Pro
Tem. 4/30/75
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
April 30, 1975
Dear Mr. President:
On April 4, 1975, I reported that U.S. naval vessels had
been ordered to participate in an international humanitarian
relief effort to transport refugees and U.S. nationals to
safety from Danang and other seaports in South Vietnam.
This effort was undertaken in response to urgent appeals
from the Government of South Vietnam and in recognition of
the large-scale violations by the North Vietnamese of the
Agreement Ending the War and Restoring the Peace in Vietnam.
In the days and weeks that followed, the massive North
Vietnamese attacks continued. As the forces of the Government
of South Vietnam were pushed further back toward Saigon, we
began a progressive withdrawal of U.S. citizens and their
dependents in South Vietnam, together with foreign nationals
whose lives were in jeopardy.
On April 28, the defensive lines to the northwest and south
of Saigon were breached. Tan Son Nhut Airfield and Saigon
came under increased rocket attack and for the first time
received artillery fire. NVA forces were approaching within
mortar and anti-aircraft missile range. The situation at
Tan Son Nhut Airfield deteriorated to the extent that it
became unusable. Crowd control on the airfield was breaking
down and the collapse of the Government forces within Saigon
appeared imminent. The situation presented a direct and
imminent threat to the remaining U.S. citizens and their
dependents in and around Saigon.
On the recommendation of the American Ambassador there, I
ordered U.S. military forces to proceed by means of rotary
wing aircraft with an emergency final evacuation out of
consideration for the safety of U.S. citizens.
In accordance with my desire to keep the Congress fully
informed on this matter, and taking note of the provision
of section 4 of the War Powers Resolution (Public Law 93-148),
I wish to report to you that at about 1:00 A.M. EDT,
April 29, 1975, U.S. forces entered South Vietnam airspace.
10 R. FORD LTC
2-
A force of 70 evacuation helicopters and 865 Marines
evacuated about 1400 U.S. citizens, together with
approximately 5500 third country nationals and South
Vietnamese, from landing zones in the vicinity of the
U.S. Embassy, Saigon, and the Defense Attache Office at
Tan Son Nhut Airfield. The last elements of the ground
security force departed Saigon at 7:46 P.M. EDT April 29,
1975. Two crew members of a Navy search and rescue
helicopter are missing at sea. There are no other known
U.S. casualties from this operation, although two U.S.
Marines on regular duty in the compound of the Defense
Attache Office at Tan Son Nhut Airfield had been killed
on the afternoon (EDT) of April 28, 1975, by rocket attacks
into a refugee staging area. U.S. fighter aircraft provided
protective air cover for this operation, and for the with-
drawal by water of a few Americans from Can Tho, and in one
instance suppressed North Vietnamese anti-aircraft artillery
firing upon evacuation helicopters as they departed. The
ground security forces on occasion returned fire during the
course of the evacuation operation.
The operation was ordered and conducted pursuant to the
President's Constitutional executive power and his authority
as Commander-in-Chief of U.S. Armed Forces.
The United States Armed Forces performed a very difficult
mission most successfully. Their exemplary courage and
discipline are deserving of the nation's highest grati
Sincerely,
GERALD R. FORD
The Honorable James O. Eastland
President Pro Tempore of the Senate
United States Senate
Washington, D. C.
&
FORD
HALD
LIBRA
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
April 30, 1975
Dear Mr. Speaker:
On April 4, 1975, I reported that U.S. naval vessels had
been ordered to participate in an international humanitarian
relief effort to transport refugees and U.S. nationals to
safety from Danang and other seaports in South Vietnam.
This effort was undertaken in response to urgent appeals
from the Government of South Vietnam and in recognition of
the large-scale violations by the North Vietnamese of the
Agreement Ending the War and Restoring the Peace in Vietnam.
In the days and weeks that followed, the massive North
Vietnamese attacks continued. As the forces of the Government
of South Vietnam were pushed further back toward Saigon, we
began a progressive withdrawal of U.S. citizens and their
dependents in South Vietnam, together with foreign nationals
whose lives were in jeopardy.
On April 28, the defensive lines to the northwest and south
of Saigon were breached. Tan Son Nhut Airfield and Saigon
came under increased rocket attack and for the first time
received artillery fire. NVA forces were approaching within
mortar and anti-aircraft missile range. The situation at
Tan Son Nhut Airfield deteriorated to the extent that it
became unusable. Crowd control on the airfield was breaking
down and the collapse of the Government forces within Saigon
appeared imminent. The situation presented a direct and
imminent threat to the remaining U.S. citizens and their
dependents in and around Saigon.
On the recommendation of the American Ambassador there, I
FORD A RALD LIBRARY
ordered U.S. military forces to proceed by means of rotary
wing aircraft with an emergency final evacuation out of
consideration for the safety of U.S. citizens.
In accordance with my desire to keep the Congress fully
informed on this matter, and taking note of the provision
of section 4 of the War Powers Resolution (Public Law 93-148),
I wish to report to you that at about 1:00 A.M. EDT,
April 29, 1975, U.S. forces entered South Vietnam airspace.
-2-
A force of 70 evacuation helicopters and 865 Marines
evacuated about 1400 U.S. citizens, together with
approximately 5500 third country nationals and South
Vietnamese, from landing zones in the vicinity of the
U.S. Embassy, Saigon, and the Defense Attache Office at
Tan Son Nhut Airfield. The last elements of the ground
security force departed Saigon at 7:46 P.M. EDT April 29,
1975. Two crew members of a Navy search and rescue
helicopter are missing at sea. There are no other known
U.S. casualties from this operation, although two U.S.
Marines on regular duty in the compound of the Defense
Attache Office at Tan Son Nhut Airfield had been killed
on the afternoon (EDT) of April 28, 1975, by rocket attacks
into a refugee staging area. U.S. fighter aircraft provided
protective air cover for this operation, and for the with-
drawal by water of a few Americans from Can Tho, and in one
instance suppressed North Vietnamese anti-aircraft artillery
firing upon evacuation helicopters as they departed. The
ground security forces on occasion returned fire during the
course of the evacuation operation.
The operation was ordered and conducted pursuant to the
President's Constitutional executive power and his authority
as Commander-in-Chief of U.S. Armed Forces.
The United States Armed Forces performed a very difficult
mission most successfully. Their exemplary courage and
discipline are deserving of the nation's highest gratitude.
Sincerely,
GERALD R. FORD
The Honorable
The Speaker
United States House of Representatives
Washington, D. C. 20515
A
FORD
5
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
April 30, 1975
To:
John Marsh
General Scowcroft
From: Phil Buchen
Attached is a copy of my
redraft -- for our 12:45
meeting.
FORD
&
RALD 35
LIBRARY
On 4 April 1975, I reported that US naval vessels had
been ordered to participate in an international humanitarian
relief effort to transport refugees and US nationals to
safety from Danang and other seaports in South Vietnam.
This effort was undertaken in response to urgent appeals
from the Government of South Vietnam and in recognition of
the large-scale violations by the North Vietnamese of the
Agreement Ending the War and Restoring the Peace in Vietnam.
In the days and weeks that followed, the massive North
Vietnamese attacks continued. As the forces of the Government
of South Vietnam were pushed further back toward Saigon, a
drawdown of US personnel and their dependents was conducted.
On 28 April, the defensive lines to the northwest and
south of Saigon were breached. Tan Son Nhut Airfield and
Saigon came under increased rocket fire and for the first
time received artillery fire. NVA forces were approaching
within mortar and anti-aircraft missile range, The situation
at Tan Son Nhut Airfield deteriorated to the extent that the
airfield was unusable. Crowd control on the airfield was
breaking down and the collapse of the Government forces
within Saigon appeared imminent.
Notwithstanding the use of diplomatic and other means
to terminate the conflict, the situation presented a direct
and imminent threat to the remaining US citizens and their
dependents in and around Saidon. In view of this situation, and on the
recommendation of the American Ambassador there, I ordered U. S.
FORD A. LIBRAR RALD
-2-
military to proceed by means of rotary wing aircraft with an emergency
final evacuation out of consideration for the safety of U.S. citizens.
In accordance with my desire to keep the Congress fully informed
on this matter, and taking note of the provision of section 4 of the War
Powers Resolution (Public Law 93-148), I wish to report to you that at
about 1:00 AM EDT, 29 April 1975, US armed forces rotary wing aircraft
entered South Vietnam airspace. Preliminary reports indicate that
approximately 70 helicopters protected by an armed security force of about
850 Marines evacuated nearly 1400 US citizens, together with approximately
5500 third country nationals and South Vietnamese from landing zones in the
vicinity of the US Embassy, Saigon, and the Defense Attache Office at
Tan Son Nhut Airfield. The last elements of the ground security force
departed Saigon at 7:46 PM EDT 29 April 1975. Two crew members of a
Navy search and I escue helicopter are missing at sea. There are no other
known US casualties, from this operation, although two US marines on regular
duty in the compound of the Defense Attache Office at Tan Son Nhut Airfield
and not equipped for combat, had been killed on the afternoon (EDT) of 28
April 1975, by rocket attacks into a refugee staging area. US fighter aircraft
were tasked to support the operation and in one instance were required to
silence North Vietnamese anti-aircraft artillery firing upon the civilian
laden helicopters as they departed. The ground security force was required
R. FORD <<
to return fire during their extraction.
The operation was ordered and conducted pursuant to the President's
Constitutional executive power and authority as Commander-in-Chief of US
Armed Forces.
-3-
The United States Armed Forces performed their difficult mission
most successfully and have once again earned the nation's gratitude.
RALD LISE II FORD
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
April 30, 1975
To:
John Marsh
General Scowcroft
From:
Phil Buchen
Attached is a copy of the
material we will be discussing
with Martin Hoffmann and
Monroe Leigh at 12:45 today.
Hope you can attend, or can
send someone.
GERALD RALD GE A. FORD BRARM
REQUEST/RECEIPT FOR LDX TRANSMISSION
300
ADDRESSEE: PLSE ENTER STATION, TOR.
CC STATION SERIAL NUMBER
OPERATORS SIGNATURE AND RETURN TO NMCC:
TIME PROCESSED NMGC
FROM:
30 APR75 75 AS
TOR:
NAME:
'75 ADD 30 AM 9:24
TO BE FILLED IN BY REQUESTER
FROM: Col Jane Finkelstein
OFFICE/DESK: OCTCS
PHONE NR: 0X7-1309
TO:
WHITE HOUSE M-76 Philis Buchen
DIA (PENT)
Cabinet Rame adviser
STATE DEPT mr. monre 302
DIA (ARL HALL)
segal advisor
CIA
632-9598
DNA
NSA
NPIC (NAVY YARD)
ANMCC
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS
CLASSIFICATION none
PAGES
3
On 4 April 1975, I reported that US naval vessels had
been ordered to participate in an international humanitarian
relief effort to transport refugees and US nationals to
safety from Danang and other seaports in South Vietnam.
This effort was undertaken in response to urgent appeals
from the Government of South Vietnam and in recognition of
the large-scale violations by the North Vietnamese of the
Agreement Ending the War and Restoring the Peace in Vietnam.
In the days and weeks that followed, the massive North
Vietnamese attacks continued. As the forces of the Government
of South Vietnam were pushed further back toward Saigon, a
drawdown of US personnel and their dependents was conducted.
On 28 April, the defensive lines to the northwest and
south of Saigon were breached. Tan Son Nhut Airfield and
Saigon came under increased rocket fire and for the first
time received artillery fire. NVA forces were approaching
within mortar and anti-aircraft missile range. The situation
at Tan Son Nhut Airfield deteriorated to the extent that the
airfield was unusable. Crowd control on the airfield was
breaking down and the collapse of the Government forces
within Saigon appeared imminent.
Notwithstanding the use of diplomatic and other means
to terminate the conflict, the situation presented a direct
and imminent threat to the remaining US citizens and their
dependents.
FORD TOT A LIBRA
In accordance with my desire to keep the Congress fully
informed on this matter, and taking note of the provision of
section 4 of the War Powers Resolution (Public Law 93-148),
I wish to report to you that I ordered the US Armed Forces
to evacuate US nationals and dependents of US nationals,
together with foreign nationals, including South Vietnamesc
to whose lives a direct and imminent threat existed and who
could be accommodated by the operation. At about 1:00 AM
EDT, 29 April 1975, US armed forces rotary wing aircraft
entered South Vietnam airspace. Preliminary reports indicate
that approximately 70 helicopters protected by an armed
security force of about 850 Marines evacuated nearly 1400 US
citizens, together with approximately 5500 third country
nationals and South Vietnamese from landing zones in the
vicinity of the US Embassy, Saigon, and the Defense Attache
Office at Tan Son Nhut. The last elements of the ground
security force departed Saigon at 7:46 PM EDT 29 April 1975.
Two US Marines were killed in the early afternoon (EDT) of
28 April 1975 as a result of North Vietnamese rocket attacks
on refugee staging area in the Defense Attache Office compound.
Two crew members of a Navy search and rescue helicopter are
missing at sea. There are no other known US casualties. US
fighter aircraft were tasked to support the operation and in
one instance were required to silence North Vietnamese anti-
aircraft artillery firing upon the civilian laden helicopters
as they departed. The ground security force was required to
a
FORD
return fire during their extraction.
10
BRAS
2
The reason for the introduction of US military forces
equipped for combat into the Saigon area was to bring about
the evacuation of US citizens and their dependents, together
with certain other alien noncombatants whose lives were
directly and imminently threatened. The operation was
ordered and conducted pursuant to the President's Constitutional
executive power and authority as Commander-in-Chief of US
Armed Forces.
In the proud tradition of professionalism that has
characterized their performance in Southeast Asia and elsewhere,
the United States Armed Forces performed the difficult and
hazardous mission with discrimination and dispatch. They
have once again earned the nation's gratitude.
FORD & LIBRA RALD
3
Memo for the Files
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
April 29, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR:
THE FILES
FROM:
JACK MARSH
ur
The attached is a conversation summary of the information
conveyed through the Congressional Relations Staff for the
purpose of advising Congressional Leaders on the Saigon
evacuation. Attached also is a draft of a memo prepared
by the National Security Council several days previously
and passed out on the evening of the notification.
RALD LIST H. FORD
The President has asked me to advise you that he has ordered the evacuation of
all Americans located in the Saigon area.
To accomplish this, a helicopter lift from carriers off-shore will begin on or about
12: 45 a.m. and will proceed to two major landing zones in the Saigon area after a
flight of approximately 25 to 30 minutes. The two landing areas are the U.S.
Embassy and Tan Son Nhut Airport.
It is expected there will be evacuated approximately 900 U.S. Nationals and
possibly some Vietnamese incidental to the lift, but it will principally evacuate
Americans at the two sites.
To assist in this operation will be approximately 1, 200 U.S. Marines who will
have the task of securing the landing zones. The airlift and evacuation will be
provided tactical air support and is expected that its duration will be from two and
one half to four hours from liftoff time if all goes well.
For your information, there is a 12 hour time difference with Saigon and it is
also requested that you keep a close hold on this information for at least one
hour after this call.
Comment: In the event you are asked as to why there are news reports on the
evacuation, you may indicate it is your understanding that local correspondents
in Saigon intercepted radio transmissions from the Embassy to the contigent at the
Airport and reported through press means the information learned from these
transmissions.
FORD A LIBR 07.
1. Lift begin About 1:00 Am
S
2 Embassy compound
l
3, Other
4, U.S.A App. 900/total 14+
5 4.3. canins
> C. usme seem lady 20ml
7. Tactical air spt.
Y
8. Only
9. 2 1/2 - 3hrs. if Gas was
10, Possible oulnde - 1200
11, 12 has, difference.
FORD A ETC RALD
n. 25min frt.
13. Close hold// hr.