[National Security Action Memoranda (NSAMs)]
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON

June 22, 1964

NATIONAL SECURITY ACTION MEMORANDUM NO. 308

MEMORANDUM TO

Domestic understanding and support are essential to the success of United States operations in Southeast Asia. The national interest requires full understanding of our policy and purpose in this area. I am not satisfied with the performance of the several departments in this area; we require stronger arrangements.

I have therefore designated Mr. Robert J. Manning, Assistant Secretary of State for Public Affairs, to generate and to coordinate a broad program to bring to the American people a complete and accurate picture of the United States involvement in Southeast Asia, and to show why this involvement is essential.

Mr. Manning is instructed to draw as necessary upon the resources of all government agencies in obtaining and disseminating the facts needed by the American people. He will call as necessary upon the senior policy and information officers of your agency. I request that you take the steps necessary to ensure that he receives their unstinting cooperation on a priority basis. I have instructed Mr. Manning to inform me if he encounters any delays or obstructions.

Source: Department of State, S/S-NSC Files: Lot 72 D 316, NSAM 308. Secret (declassified).