171. Editorial Note
In early 1968 the search for a replacement for Ellsworth Bunker as coordinator for the Israeli desalting project continued. Rostow sent the results of an “informal in-house canvas” to the President on February 29. Johnson indicated that his first choice was Walter Heller and that Rostow should again check with Feinberg about the selection. (Memorandum from Rostow to Johnson, February 29; Johnson Library, National Security File, Subject File, Desalting Projects, Vol. II) The issue was still unresolved in April, when several prominent candidates were unable to commit the necessary time to the project. (Memorandum from Saunders to Rostow, April 18; ibid.) On May 6 the President approved the selection of George D. Woods, former President of the World Bank, for the position. (Memorandum from Rostow to the President, May 6; ibid.)