751G.00/12–154: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Embassy in Vietnam1
2213. Eyes only for McClintock from Robertson. Department concerned repercussions which might result if Cambodians pressed to agree to phase out all French instructors as desired by JCS.
In recent talks Mendes-France demonstrated French sensitivity over exclusive U.S. military training and this issue forced in Cambodia might have serious far-reaching effect U.S.-French relations, and U.S. objectives Associated States.
British already on record opposing U.S. MAAG Cambodia and exclusive U.S. training there probably would bring strong protests from UK as well as International Control Commission. Despite your belief Cambodia would agree to French training phase-out, your reports indicate the Cambodians would do so with great timerity and reluctance.
If you agree, Department might ask Defense reconsider JCS recommendation regarding French phase-out as prerequisite establishment MAAG and suggest compromise formula similar that Collins has suggested for Viet-Nam in which U.S. would have responsibility for training but French instructors also would be utilized under U.S. authority.
You may wish discuss problem with Collins and O’Daniel and solicit their recommendations direct to JCS through military channels.2