Declassified per Executive Order 13526, Section 3.3
NND Project Number: NND 63316. By: NWD Date: 2011
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areas except in exceptional circumstances. While I feel that this is a major step forward in the more effective utilization of MAAG advisors, I am concerned that this forward looking authorization is not being fully implemented. The implementing directive (RVNAF Memorandum, Number 563/TTM/P3/1, dated 5 May 1961) reserves the decision as to whether or not MAAG advisors are permitted to accompany units, largely to ARVN field commanders - based on their estimate of "security limits imposed by battlefield conditions." While I recognize and concur in the concern of the GVN at all levels regarding the security of U.S. military personnel, I feel that ARVN commanders are often over zealous in their desire to insure the one hundred percent security of MAAG advisors in operational areas - a condition which cannot be attained under current circumstances. Of course, I do not wish advisors to engage in actual combat except in self defense. However, I feel that lack of absolute security measures should not preclude them from performing their mission. In the future, I am hopeful that ARVN commanders will avail themselves more frequently of the professional competence available to them through MAAG advisory assistance in both the planning and conduce of tactical operations.
I am convinced that the most fundamental military recommendations contained in the Counter-Insurgency Plan are those pertaining to reorganization of the command structure and a single chain of command. As you know, in my military assessment of the situation last September, one of my basic conclusions was the absolute necessity for a single, inviolate chain of command, which could implement an integrated national plan for counter-insurgency. You will recall our numerous discussions and conferences on this subject prior to your decree 98/QP and the directives which were derived therefrom. In essence, this important decree resulted in elimination of Military Regions and placed three Corps under an operational Field Command, charged with the conduct of military operations. Province Chiefs retained certain military responsibilities, however, the DOD directive specifically placed them within the military chain of command for military matters. As you know, MAAG was apprehensive about the retention of Province Chiefs in the military chain of command. However, we felt that your decree represented a workable solution and were enthusiastic about the opportunity for improvement in this vital area. In recent weeks, however, during the detailed implementation of these directives some tendencies have developed which, if not checked, will negate much we are both trying to accomplish. I refer specifically to some instances of violation of the officially established chain of command and to difficulties in isolating and defining the role of the Province Chief, as pertains to military affairs.
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