President Nixon and the White House operator coordinated an effort to contact Secretary of Defense Melvin Laird, who was attending a Senate Armed Services Committee meeting at the Capitol. Upon learning that Laird's availability was uncertain, the President instructed the operator to attempt to reach him at his location. This administrative exchange reflects the ongoing communication requirements between the White House and the Department of Defense regarding urgent business.
On April 18, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 9:27 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 023-016 of the White House Tapes.
Nixon Library Finding AidConversation No. 23-16 Date: April 18, 1972 Time: 9:27 am Location: White House Telephone The White House operator talked with the President. [See also Conversation No. 711-3C] Melvin R. Laird -Location -Return call
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 Do not cite this transcript as authoritative.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.