751G.00/5–754: Telegram
The Chargé at Saigon (McClintock) to the Department of State
[Received 10:48 a.m.]
2274. Sent Paris niact 783, Geneva niact 64, Tokyo niact 94, Manila niact 239, Singapore niact 76, Bangkok niact 159, Hong Kong niact 67, London niact 48. DeJean informed me at 2030 hours local time that central redoubt of Dien Bien Phu has fallen. There is no capitulation and fighting continues on basis of individual action. “Isabelle” continues to hold out. DeCastries as of 1630 when he made his last report was still alive and fighting.
DeJean said Press would not be informed until tomorrow morning. I asked if he or Navarre contemplated issuing an order of the day. He said it was under study.
I requested DeJean officially to inform Commander-in-Chief that I saluted the gallantry of DeCastries and his men at Dien Bien Phu.