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 :. To withdraw all U.S. support from South Vietnam and concentrate on saving the remainder of Southeast Asia.

Included in the discussion attached hereto are some of the advantages and disadvantages of each course.

4. Although national policy prescribes making every possible effort to prevent South Vietnam falling to the Communists, the degree to which the United States is willing to support this policy in men, money, materials, and acceptance of additional war risks is not readily apparent. Prior to consideration of military courses of action with respect to this area, a firm decision at national level as to implementation of U.S. policy in Southeast Asia is mandatory. In this connection, the Joint Chiefs of Staff have recommended previously against a "static" defense for this area and therefore reiterate the previously recommended adoption of a concept of offensive actions against the "military power of the aggressor".

Enclosure Rh