NND Project Number: NND 63316. By: NWD Date: 2011
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experiment in the three provinces which had been entrusted largely to Vietnamese hands would be of utmost importance in developing future guidance in the realm of psychological warfare.
In response to my question, Dr. Quat likewise indicated that his Ministry was preparing plans for training in guerrilla warfare. He was interested in the suggestion, although it did not apply specifically to Vietnam, that in the present conflict in middle Laos prompt action in bringing Laotian guerrillas, backed up by regular battalions, to confront the Viet Minh who had invaded that area might be successful in preventing the Viet Minh from settling down in these remote jungles and mountains and so establishing themselves that their eradication would prove a time-consuming and difficult problem.
The over-all impress ion given by Minister Quat was one of quiet self-confidence in his ability to get on with the war and to succeed in his program provided that he had sufficient backing from the French High Command and if an increased amount of American aid, both in officer training instructors and in arms for his proposed militia, were forthcoming.
Acknowledgment for this detailed report of my meeting is made to Mr. McClintock, Deputy Chief of Mission, American Embassy, Saigon.
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