751G.00/6–2054: Telegram
The Consul at Hanoi (Cameron) to the Department of State
750. Repeated information Saigon 685, Paris 332. Tri sent me copy of secret letter to Buu Loc dated June 19 in which he strongly urged latter obtain solemn assurances from French re their intentions defend delta. At very least, he felt Vietnamese Government could obtain formal French commitment not only to hold firm until Vietnamese army is in position relieve French Union Forces but also to inform Vietnamese Government in advance of withdrawals which should no longer be decided unilaterally and secretly by French High Command.
Governor also strongly suggested approach to United States Government which would distinguish between request for United States intervention in Vietnam and United States military assistance. According Tri, request for United States armed intervention would have chance of being accepted only in extreme case massive and open Chinese–Soviet participation present conflict. Tri felt, however, that assurances to this effect, if given now, would have great morale value.
He then pointed out it would be more timely and more practicable to request an increase and acceleration of United States military aid both in form of technical training and supply of arms, munitions and equipment. He emphasized strongly that this aid was needed immediately and in large quantities.