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4. Although the invitation upon which the mission is based was conveyed by the French Prime Minister acting unilaterally for France, it is essential that the military authorities of Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia be given a maximum sense of participation consistent with security requirements. The Chief of Mission will wish to take a very early opportunity of discussing this aspect of his task with General Navarre.

5. The Chief of Mission will be supported by a carefully selected group of military personnel representing all three Services and with special knowledge of the problems associated with Indochina. The delicate nature of the mission and the difficulty of accommodating a large group in a war area dictates that the party be kept as small as possible consistent with this requirement. The mission will comprise approximately the following personnel, to be designated by their respective Services: Army — Chief of Mission plus two officers; Air Force — two officers; Navy — two officers; State Department — one representative. It is essential that all members of the mission be aware that this is a highly important military mission concerned with reexamination of U.S. military policy toward this area of critical significance to U.S. security.

6. Prior to his departure from Washington, D.C., the Chief of Mission will be briefed by both military and political officers with respect to the U.S. position regarding the situation in Indochina. Enroute to Indochina the Chief of Mission will obtain the views of the Commander in Chief, Pacific.

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