President Nixon consulted Admiral Arthur W. Radford regarding his recent, politically risky decision to escalate military action in Vietnam through the mining of North Vietnamese harbors. Nixon expressed confidence that the strategic move was necessary despite the potential domestic fallout and highlighted the importance of protecting American interests. The discussion centered on the military effectiveness of the mining operation and its broader geopolitical implications.
On May 9, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Arthur W. Radford met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 12:05 pm and 12:06 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 338-023 of the White House Tapes.
Nixon Library Finding AidConversation No. 338-23 Date: May 9, 1972 Time: Between 12:05 and 12:06 pm Location: Executive Office Building The President talked with Adm. Arthur W. Radford. [See Conversation No. 24-52]
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 Do not cite this transcript as authoritative.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.