465. Instruction From the Department of State to the Embassy in Thailand1
At conference March 17, Walter Reed authorities informed Sarit and his private physicians along following lines:
He should call upon the Walter Reed staff at any time in event of further illness associated with [less than 1 line of source text not declassified] and anything consequent to surgery. He should have regular diet [1½ lines of source text not declassified] and should not permit weight exceed that of present. [5½ lines of source text not declassified] Physical activity need be limited only by his endurance but should not exercise beyond the limits of tolerance or to point of fatigue. No admonition against mental activity. [4 lines of source text not declassified]
The above information was provided to Sarit orally and in written form at private requests from Sarit’s aide and wife who intimated he likely forget or deny the limitations prescribed as necessary for his continued health. Provided Sarit conforms to above orders and avoids excesses, including intense and prolonged activity, the medical authorities seem satisfied he can carry on normal activities. Given these precautions, there appears at this time to be no reason to assume that Sarit cannot serve as an active political and military leader upon his return to Thailand. Should any adverse indications develop, the Embassy will be informed.
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 792.551/3–2658. Confidential. Drafted by Bushner, cleared in substance by Colonel Voegtly of Walter Reed Army Hospital, and approved by Floyd L. Whittington, Deputy Director of the Office of Southeast Asian Affairs. Repeated to CINCPAC for POLAD.↩