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Conversation 011-020

TapeTape 11StartThursday, October 7, 1971 at 9:52 PMEndThursday, October 7, 1971 at 9:53 PMTape start time00:31:39Tape end time00:32:44ParticipantsNixon, Richard M. (President);  Colson, Charles W.Recording deviceWhite House Telephone
AI Summary

President Nixon and Charles Colson discuss a military band concert being held at the Kennedy Center, prompted by conflicting reports regarding the event's nature and media coverage from the Washington Post. Nixon directs Colson to verify the event's dress code and private status, expressing potential interest in attending the end of the performance if appropriate. Colson agrees to investigate the details immediately and report back to the President.

Kennedy CenterMilitary bandsWashington PostWhite House protocolJohn Philip Sousa
AudioNARA Description

On October 7, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Charles W. Colson talked on the telephone from 9:52 pm to 9:53 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 011-020 of the White House Tapes.

Nixon Library Finding Aid
Conversation No. 011-020

 Date: October 7, 1971
 Time: 9:52 pm - 9:53 pm
 Location: White House Telephone

 The President talked with Charles W. Colson.

        Kennedy Center concert
            -Military bands
                  -Washington Post
                  -John Philip Sousa
                       -Attire
                       -The President’s schedule
Transcript (AI-Generated)

This transcript was generated automatically by AI and has not been reviewed for accuracy. Do not cite this transcript as authoritative. Consult the Finding Aid above for verified information.

Yes, sir, Mr. President.
You say the military bands are playing?
Yes, I should learn never to believe the Washington Post.
The Post this morning said it was the bands of Mexico City, but what it is, we've just found out by calling around, is a private concert of the military bands, dedicating the county center concert hall, I don't know, it was dedicating a tribute to John Philip Sousa.
And it was a private invitation that was there that started at 8.30, I don't know.
What part of it is that?
I think the concert hall, Mr. President, although none of the damn telephones answer over there, so I haven't been able to find out exactly.
It's a private military affair, apparently.
Call over there, get a hold of them, and see if the black tire or not will call me back for you.
Yes, sir.
Or you know it is?
I don't know whether it is, but I'll call right over and try to find out immediately.
If it is, I may go over for the last time.
All right, sir.
I'll check right now.
Call you back.
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