Opinion (Barry Zorthian): For 'Vietnam', Just Read 'Iraq'

Then, or now?

Barry Zorthian was on the U.S. Embassy staff in Saigon from 1964 to 1968, in charge of media relations and internal communications during the Vietnam War. On March 3, 1968, Zorthian wrote a memo to then-Ambassador Ellsworth Bunker about U.S. prospects in Vietnam in the wake of the Jan. 31, 1968, Tet offensive. The 1968 memo follows, but with insertions by Zorthian in capital letters.

March 3, 1968
MEMORANDUM FOR: THE AMBASSADOR

I believe the situation in South Vietnam (IRAQ) is extremely grave. The Viet Cong (INSURGENTS) have skillfully executed a well-planned campaign, designed to force the pace of the war and to bring about a conclusion favorable to them in the foreseeable future. Failing this, they will still have the options of negotiation or reversal to guerrilla warfare. Meanwhile, by forcing us to concentrate our strength in the cities and in outpost strong points, they have gained relative freedom in the countryside for their cadre. A second wave of considerable strength is in their capability, and the decision on the future course of the war is in their hands at this time.

Read the rest at the San Jose Mercury News

SPECIAL NOTE: the answer to the 'then or now' question posed underneath the picture is... now.