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28 August 1953

MEMORANDUM FOR THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE




 * | Subject: || The Navarre Concept for Operations in Indochina.
 * }

1. In a memorandum for you, dated 11 August 1953, subject: "The Navarre Concept for Operations in Indochina," the Joint Chiefs of Staff commented on the Navarre concept and its "promise of success". It is understood that the Secretary of Defense contemplates sending a copy of the reference memorandum to the Secretary of State in the immediate future under cover of a memorandum (Enclosure) which was passed informally to the Chairman, Joint Chief. for comment by the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

2. Though the Joint Chiefs of Staff remain in general agreement with the memorandum of 11 August, it is believed that certain changes therein are appropriate prior to forwarding it to the Secretary of State, The Joint Chiefs of Staff consider the second sentence of paragraph 3 to be overly optimistic with respect to the "promise of success" offered by the Navarre concept. Though vigorous military prosecution in Indochina and political support of the Navarre concept in France are fundamental, it is believed a basic requirement for military success in Indochina is one of creating a political climate in that country which will provide the incentive for natives to wholeheartedly support the French and supply them with adequate intelligence vital to the successful conduct of military operations in that country.

3. In furtherance of the O'Daniel Mission the Joint Chiefs of Staff are receiving Progress Reports from Indochina. A report dated 24 August 1953 states that the French are not in fact pursuing agreements reached between General O'Daniel and General Navarre (including the Navarre concept) as vigorously as expected by General 0' Daniel and contemplated by him in his report. Specifically, General Trapnell, in his 24 August Progress Report, states that (a) the French have "no plans for a general fall offensive beyond limited objective Copy of copies each of page series.