Confidential Memo (note: this memo was later revealed to the public when the Pentagon Papers were published in American newspapers in 1971.)

John T. McNaughton, Assistant Secretary of Defense to Secretary of Defense Robert S. McNamara

March 24, 1965

U.S. aims:

1. 70% -- To avoid a humiliating U.S. defeat (to our reputation as a guarantor).
2. 20% -- To keep SVN [South Vietnam] and the adjacent territory from Chinese hands.
3. 10% -- To permit the people of SVN to enjoy a better, freer way of life.

ALSO – To emerge from crisis without unacceptable taint from methods used.

NOT – to “help a friend,” although it would be hard to stay in if asked out.