711.551/1–1754: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Embassy at Saigon 1
1269. For information only. At its January 8 meeting NSC took following action:2
“Agreed that General O’Daniel should be stationed continuously in Indochina, under appropriate liaison arrangements and with sufficient authority to expedite the flexible provision of US assistance to the French Union forces.”
Purpose is to have O’Daniel function as CINCPAC’s liaison with Navarre. He would keep close contact with American Ambassador. Purpose of assignment would be to correlate US assistance and influence more closely than heretofore with demands of Indochina situation particularly in relation over-all strategy and training of native troops in order to make maximum contribution to successful conclusion.
As first step in implementation above NSC action, General O’Daniel is proceeding to make visit MAAGs in FE area beginning with MAAG/Saigon about January 25 (he will communicate directly with MAAG and has already advised Navarre informally of his plan). After a few days in Saigon, O’Daniel would proceed to Bangkok. Manila and Taipei returning later to Saigon for further discussion with General Navarre. Further steps will depend upon course O’Daniel conversations with Navarre. It is hoped that O’Daniel can persuade Navarre of desirability of O’Daniel’s indefinite stay in Indochina as contemplated by NSC and that Navarre will in fact make suitable recommendation to his government.
Meanwhile no action is required from addressees. Inquiries regarding O’Daniel plans should be answered to effect he is on routine visit to MAAGs in FE area for which he has administrative responsibilities as Commanding General U.S. Army Pacific. You will be kept closely informed on progress O’Daniel conversations with Navarre.