COMPLETION OF VIETNAM ORIENTATION NO. 8

• Document Type: CREST
• Collection: General CIA Records
• Document Number (FOIA) /ESDN (CREST): CIA-RDP78-03088A000100030031-6
• Release Decision: RIPPUB
• Original Classification: C
• Document Page Count: 1
• Document Creation Date: December 9, 2016
• Document Release Date: July 23, 2001
• Sequence Number: 31
• Publication Date: August 11, 1966
• Content Type: MEMO

?;T pp?roved For Releas~p 9001/ ~I1088A0001 0031-6
Memorandum
C/OBF/IS/OTR DATE: 11 August 1966
SUBJECT: Completion of Vietnam Orientation No. 8
1. The 8th running of the Vietnam Orientation, August
8-10, was a shortened and, in my opinion, an unsuccessful
version of the normal full week of instruction. The course
was shortened to fifteen hours spread over three days because
of the small registration It was unusccessful because
it lacked unity and comprehensiveness, as far as the coverage
of material was concerned; and it lacked these because I could
not draw from outside the for speakers, and that
desk lacks personnel who can speak knowingly of the land, the
people, the history, the culture, and the fundamental problems
of Vietnam. Even Agency operations were inadequately covered
because of the shortness of time.
2. I suppose one can take consolation in the fact that "some-
thing is better than nothing. " The new chief of the branch, Mr.
provided an introductory account of the Saigon station's
past, present, and likely future mission. Other branch personnel
spoke in more detail of the "revolutionary development cadres"
which are such a large element of station activity. Support
personnel gave helpful advice and information on personal
matters. Films and reading material hopefully provided some
insights and guidance for newcomers to Southeast Asia.
3. I am forwarding with this memorandum one copy of the
scheduled the orientation.
Approved For Release 2001/08/21 : CIA-RDP78-03088A000100030031-6