Office of the Historian

156. Telegram From the Chief of the Military Assistance Advisory Group in Indochina (O’Daniel) to the Chief of Naval Operations (Carney)1

Saigon, April 29, 1955—7:40 p.m.

MG 376–P, DTG 291140Z (Army message). Following is a résumé of Saigon–Cholon conflict between VNA and Binh Xuyen forces which began 1315 hours local 29 [28] April with mortar shelling of Palace following numerous small fire fights of recent days.

Prior 1400 hours, General Gambiez called VNA Headquarters on Rue Gallieni and inspected mortars. Mortars had not been fired but shortly after Gambiez departed Binh Xuyen mortar fire received in Headquarters area which then returned by VNA and concentrated battle began along Rue Gallieni. Binh Xuyen reportedly set fire huts around motor pool at VNA Headquarters but VNA succeeded in getting out all but two vehicles. Extensive area between Rue Gallieni and Chinois Arroyo burned out during afternoon. At 1700 hours, President ordered VNA to clean out Binh Xuyen and VNA went on offensive with four parachute battalions. VNA succeeded in gaining objective of banks of Chinois Arroyo by 1300 hours, 29 April, having overcome Binh Xuyen Headquarters on Rue Gallieni and most other Binh Xuyen strong points in city. In separate action VNA captured Binh Xuyen post at Lycee Petrus Ky. Grande Monde, a Binh Xuyen stronghold, burned out. Timber span of Y bridge leading to Binh Xuyen posts south of Chinois Arroyo blown by Binh Xuyen, temporarily out of use. Fires along Rue Gallieni had burned out by morning [Page 325] April 29. Fighting died down about 1200 hours local April 29, resumed 1700 hours. VNA expects mop up areas already engaged afternoon April 29. VNA estimates their casualties 20–30 killed, 150 hospitalized, Binh Xuyen casualties 100 killed, 400 wounded. Heavy civilian casualties.

At 1430 hours 29 April, French started deploying heavily armed soldiers along principal boundaries of European Sector in Saigon, possibly concerned about flanking movements or to prevent spreading fight to European Zone. VNA reports Binh Xuyen posts in Saigon area controlled by French contain three companies of Binh Xuyen. This provides tense situation.

VNA appears have capability, morale and desire to finish Binh Xuyen now. Having taken many casualties during past month adds to VNA incentives, however, recent orders from Bao Dai concerning consultations in France have apparently produced some dismay and indecision which could be dispelled by strong US stand in support of government. Any change in leadership or command at this time could result in chaos.

  1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 751G.00/4–3055. Secret; Priority. Repeated for information to CINCPAC, Chief of Staff of the Army, the Intelligence Departments of the U.S. Air Force and the Far East Air Force, and the Departments of the Army and State.

    According to telegram MG 377P DTG 300145Z (Army message), CHMAAG Saigon, April 30, this telegram was a joint message of MAAG Chief, the Army, Navy, Air Attachés, and Colonel Lansdale. (ibid.)

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