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Saigon Military Mission

United States history

Quick Summary

The Saigon Military Mission was a covert U.S. operation launched on June 1, 1954, to conduct psychological warfare and paramilitary activities in South Vietnam. Commanded by U.S. Air Force Colonel Edward Lansdale, its goal was to counter communist influence following the division of Vietnam at the 17th parallel.

The mission aimed to bolster the State of Vietnam (South Vietnam) against the communist regime in the North and internal opposition. This involved influencing public opinion and engaging in clandestine operations. Despite these efforts, South Vietnam faced significant challenges, including internal political instability and the growing strength of the Viet Cong, leading to increased U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War.1

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