Transcript of pol_6-2_us_kennedy_06_14_1968_senator_robert_f._kennedy-part_3_of_5.pdf
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EZMORANDOH TOR MR, JOEN: B. RIRLLY
OFTICB O TIE VICB PRBBIDENT
Bubjeott Condolenco Manqage fren Dundoatag
Prealdent
I .Onoloce Rooeage trom Dr. Ehaca ' Gareeonnaterv
Prostdene 01 tha' Toderal Carran rar} anont teundogtag)
La: €ho nard 01 ehde bodx exeonding conddlanood On the
doath ot Conator Fonnady and axproroLns" oynepathy for
&ho) gonnady {anily, 4 sugoestod 'reply Ror eranonIdelon
to Dr: Cerotemiter] through our< Babajoy In Bonn 1o 0180
enoloped,
Banjrala Aa Rei4
Bxocuetve baaraeary
Enelosuroc}
1 Suggonted roply to Dr > doratonralor+
2, condolendo moeaagr Krom DI, Garsteunater,
EUR/GER: TJHtreenfeid: lpb Clearances : GER Mr _ Euhan 'E
6/11/68 EUR M e: KEAvD
s/s m' a
Faikcvly}
*-4901
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DEPARTASNT 0T STATB
Buggegted_Reelx
Dear Dr , Geratenmaler ,
Pleage aocepe MY Om hoart-folt thanke and tha
thanke of By Benate: colloaqua?v for Your thoughtful
condolencee Oa the tragle doath 08 Sahator Robort 7,
Ronnedy .
Stnaaraly,
Bubart 0; , Hunphrey
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DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Suggested_Replx
Dear Dr Gerstenmaier:
Please accept my own heart-felt thanks and the
thanks of my Senate colleagues for your thoughtful
condolences on the tragic death of Senator Robert F _
Kennedy .
Sincerely,
Hubert H. Humphrey
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WA SHINGTON @ne b, 193
dear Mr , Vice President:
Tne President of the German Bundestag has asked me to
transmit to you In your capacity as President of the
United States Senate the folloing nessage of condolence
of the German Bundestag:
"Tiefbewest spreche ich Ihnen, Herr Prasident, und den
Senat der Vereinigten Staaten von Amertka die auf -
richtige Anteilnarme des Dcutschen Bundestags aus zu
den iberaus scherzlicnen und tragischen Verlust, den
Sie und die Vereinigten staaten durch den Tod Von
Senator Robert Kennedy erlitten haben _ Der Deutsche
Bundest2g trauert mit Ihnen um eine groee Hoffnung
Inrcs Landes . Er gedenkt in] herzlicher Anteilnai:ne
auch der zweifach schwer €eprilften Fanilie Kennedy
Ihr eufrichtig ergcbener Gerstenmaler,
m Prisdent des Deutsenen Bundestass_
The English translatlon reads as follows:
"Deeply noved, I express to you, Mr = President, and to
the Senate of tbe Unfted States of America, the
sIncere participation of the German Bundestag in tre
painful and tragic loss whfch You and tne United states
have suffered througn tne death of Senator Robert
Kennedy . The German Bundestag 1s in mourning with you
over a great hope of your country. It also 1s thinking
Wlth heartfelt sympatny of the again So severely trfed
Kennedy fanfly.
Very sincerely yours,
Gerstenmaicr,
President of the Gernan Bundestag"
Respectfully yours,
The Vice President
sgd . Knappstein
The Capitol
NashIngton, D.C_
My
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'OP
5
Department of State
eo
TELEGRAM
0
UNcLASSIFIED 544
PAGE 01 StATEi 183883;
21
ORiGIN EUR 20
InFo CPRi 02+GPM 0#,NsC i0,P1 0h'RsCi 0i,88: 20, USIA; |2Hi 02*/075' R
DROFTED BY Eur/GER: TJHIRSCHEELD'
APPROVED: Ey Eur GeoRGe . S SPRINGSTEEN,
EVR/GER; MR, PUHAN'
8/S_MRs Divis:
VICE pres} DeNT ' 8: OFFICE:' MRi RIELLY'
R 742311 Jun 68
Fm SECSTATE WASHDC_
To AMEMbASSy BDNN
UNCLAS STATE 183883_
PLEASE' PAsS: FOLLOwING_MESSAGE; ERom: VICEI presIdeNT TOi
BuNDESTAG PRESIDENT GERSTENMA [ ERo
QTE DEAR; Dr. GERSTENMAIeR/
PLEASE Accept My OwN HeART-FELT THANKS: AnD: Thei ThaNKs of
My SENATE CGLLEAGuES For Youri Thoughteuli CONDOLENCES: ONi THE
TRAGIC Death: Qf' senaTOR: ROBERT Fx KENNEDY,
SINCERELN'
HubeRI H: Humphrey UNqTE:
2' VICE PRESIDENT ' S OFFICE Does Not' Plani Io RELEASE: MESSAGE,
Buv Has- Nq QBJECTTON: To RELEASE' By GERSTENMAIER'
38 EOLLOWJNG, Fyi' IS ENGLIShi TEXT Ofi CERSTENMIER'8' MESSAGE
TO ThE: VICE PRESIDENT)
QTe DeepLY Moved? I ExpresS_ To: Youg MRb PRESIDENi , AnDi Toi THE
sen- TE QF ThE UNiTED states: Ofi AmeRICA, THE- SiNCERE ParicipATION
0F The GeRMAN: bundestag IN; TheS PAINFULi ANDL TRAGTC' Lo6s WhicH
AnD' THE unITedi STATes HaVE SUFFERED Through; THE: DEATHi Of
SEnATOR' RQbERT' KENNEDY= THEI GERmAN: Bundestagi_is: INi MQVRNING
WITh Youi OvER A GReaT' HOpe qF Your Country it; ALbO: I8 THiNKING
wifh HeaRTFELT SYmPathY OE The AGAIN S0,' SEVERELY' Tried: KENNEDY
UNcLaSS IEIED:
'@ARTMBN?
1
STATES
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Department of State
TELEGRAM
WNcLA55JFLED
Page 02 STATEL 183883.
FAMILY'
VERY SINCERLY YDurs}
GERSTENMIER'
PRESIDENT Of; THEi GERMAN bundestag; NNQTE
Rusk
UncLaSSJEIER
Qrntlr
1
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Ys L l_ 2 4s / 'KANNEN <
Ro BER+
OUTGOING TELEGRAM
Department of State 3
INDICATE: COLLECT
CHARGE To
LIMITED OFFICIAL USE 8
Classification
Origin ACTION: Amembassy TOKYO
Jun &8 16 462 8
Into: STATE
PLEASE PASS FOLLOWING MESSAGE FROM SECRETARY TO FOREIGN MINISTER:
Thank you for your thoughtful message of condolence on
1S QTE XEEXEXXYXKXEXEXEKXXHXKXHKXKKXNEXEEEXEXXRKEKIXXRX
the EbeEegi;xdeatbr2&xSenetok.Bober Of Robert_ Exxegedgxxkorr sympathy at
thiextkuex?faBatiolekaBREE8kxeudeerlxap;reaiatedkz
8tul"#UII JHAD"#NARL#UUIHP Sincerely Dean Rusk # UNQTE _
4
CneKXTKeGKKXOXXAGKXAUKXEOEEEXARXAL EEIXXX
HXXXXKEKKXKNCUE
2 _ We do not plan to release message , but have no
objection to release Foreign Minister
3 Following , FYI, is text of Foreign Mnister S message
to the Secretary:
QTE I have learned with profound grief 0f the
un- timely and unfortunate death of Senator Robert F_
Kennedy , and I wish to express my deep sympathy and
sincere condolences to you and the people Of the
United States _ UNQTE
RuSK;
Dranted by: Tel_ Exl _ Telegraphic transmission and
EA/J :UAStraus:jk 6/11/68 6051
classilication approved by:
EA/J Richard L. Sneider
Clbarancos:
s/s Mr . Pabye
LIMITED OFFICIAL USE
FORM Classification
8-65
DS-322
4L
3
by
1
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Pol 6-2 us]xennesy @bert F.
11 8 3 4 7. 6
OUTGOING TELEGRAM
Department State 3
INDICATE: COLlECT LIMITED OFFTCAAT VS= 9
CHARGE To BNGLASST 8
Classifitation
Origin ACTION: Amembassy FORT LAMY Jun 20
498
Info:
PLEASE PASS FOLLOWING MESSAGE FROM SECRETARY TO FOREIGN MINISTER BAROUM:
1 QTE Thank you for your thoughtful message of condolence on the tragic
of Senator Robert F. Kennedy. Your sympathy at this time of national sorrow
datr
18
deeply appreciated. UNQTE
2 . QTE I shall, as you requested, transmit your message to Mr8 . Kennedy and
member8 of the Senator 8 family. Sincerely, Dean Rusk UNQTE
3_ Department does not to release message, but has no objection to relea8e
by Foreign Minister.
43 Following, FYI, is English trans lation of Foreign Minister 8 message to the
Secretary.
QTE Having learned of the tragic death of Senator Robert Kennedy, I have the
honor to expre8s my very sincere condolences and you to convey to the Kennedy
family that with sorrow I share their f. Dr . Jacques Baroum, Minister
of Foreign Affairs UNQTE
END
Drafted by: Tel_ Ext_ Telegraphic transmission and
AFCW/MCook:dls 6/13/68 4323 classilication approved by:
AFCW William E Ischau fele, Jr,
Cloarancos:
s/s AParker AF Mr _ Hadsel G`
LIMITED OFFICIAL USE
FORM Classification
8-65
DS-322
of
plan
beg
grie deep
AeM
RuSk
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Jl2 L/n/<
( Kai/ 1245/4
Pending
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Washinston, D.c. 20520 June 14, 1968
BSRR FILES
NeA Attentiox lZZt
ff2
Keep thls gtudy tosothor,
MORANDU FOR MR. WAIT W . ROSTOOW
T WHITE HOUSE
Subject: Message From the President to the King of
Afghanistan Aclnowledging His Condolences on
the Death of Senator Kernedy
The King of Afghanisten has sent a telegram to the President
expressing, on his Oiin behalf and on behalf of Queen Homaira_
9
^
condolences on the death of Senator Kennedy _ A copy of the King
message is enclosed_
A suggested message of ackowledgement is also enclosed_
The standard language for messages of acknowledgement which was
<
previously cleared by the Whhite House was not considered appropriate
in this case because it has already been employed in a message
from the President to the Afghan Prime Minister _ s
awVen1
lUels
Benjamin H Read
Executive Secretary
1
Enclosures :
1. King's message to the President
2 Suggested Message
Clearances
1
Copy
NAPAF Mr _ Prescott A
S/CPR tx--Abell Mr
Sancho-Bonet / & /
h
NEA Mr _ Handley w '(araft)
S/S Mr _ Parker
NEVPAF: IGRamsay net:6/13/68
12ozY
SIS
'9
7
Bt8
S/s
Tro
1
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.)
Fi: MN
V#R
JUP
Tariat
SF ~RE StatF
#F
OUT
5 07
3
1:
19
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Kabul
June 12 , 1968
His Excellency
Lyndon B Johnson
President 0f the United States
of Arnerica
The [hhite House
Washington
Deply grieved by the sad news of the death of Senator Robert
Kennedy The Queen and I would like to convey to Your Excellency
and through you to the bereaved family the expression of our
personal heartfelt sympathies and condolences _
Mohamad Zaher
King of Afghanistan
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SUGGESTED ESSAGE
His Majesty
Mohanad Zaher
King of Afghanistan
Kabul
Your Majesty:
I wish to express my heartfelt appreciation for Your Majesty 's
kind words of sympathy over the death of' Senator Robert F Kennedy
All Americans have been profoundly shocked by his sudden and
tragic passing- The Ioledge that you and Her Majesty
3
Queen
Homaira, share in our sorrow will help sustain uS in these grievous
days _
1 shall transmit Your Majesties message to Mrs _ Kennedy and
members of the Senator 1 S family _
Sincerely_
9
1
Lyndon B. Johnson F
[5 /L$' (
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Rshe
MOERAHDN Bor Mr._WATT: W: RI1v
55 MtTE Botwc
Sbfect; Mospeso %rta tbo Prectdaat t0 te Ang 0f
Nehantuean Mtatodetelns Hlo Omdlenoor 0
tho @abh 0T Sertator Zernatty
T Rlng % Nctatttstaa bao cent
8 eelogran to tiea Freolarit
<
exprenotng, a ht 0m behalf ad 0 betalf 0r Quuen #oalra,
oondolerpet m tte death' Of &enater Kondy ; 4 Cn Q1 tta Klng',
mepuage $s enalored.
A busgebted Daldert af Hehnordledrenent 10 @2aw enolonad ,
5
m atundard lnsunee far 4o4pdae? O1 aakane garant Mdeh rae
provoualy akeord y the, Wueo Houso +er mot eaaldered appreoriato
In thli 0840 bocaiae It bo Alreaty betn culoyed M $ 438o28
fom tae Hubldart t +o Mfttm Erbe Entster
S
Binkatn H: Retd
Bocuttye Secratary
0
Enoloalnod: _
1. Ktns'8 R98ea88 *0 tr Ereoldent
2. Suegebted Waedage
(erarcealz
Prescde}
1
S/CPR Vr--Acell Mr Sancho-Bonet
NEA Mr Handley W'
S/S
T Nr _ Parker
NEAPAF
WGRidaltnet:6/13/68
X
3370
Ra@
kdraft
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lx}
(SmEE)ocEhxA c 84; 22h
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
AA~Eoe_cf-&
WASHINGTON "1
June 14, 1968
IN Reply REFER To: 8790
CORIE? TO}
s/su
MEMORANDUM FOR MR = WALT W _ ROSTOW WE
0NZ
THE WHITE HOUSE
Pk
Subject: Message to the President from John McEwen
on the Death of Senator Kennedy
Enclosed i3 a message to the President from the Acting
Prime Minister of Australia, John McEwen conveying the text
of a message of condolence he sent to Mrs . Robert Kennedy _
The Department S recommmendation is that no reply need
2
be sent to the message _ Direct messages to the President
have been received from Prime Minister Gorton in Saigon and
from Lord Casey , Governor General_ Replies to these have been
sent-
<
Benjamin H Read
Executive Secretary
Enclosure:
1
Message from John McEwen.
L
1
)
Concurrences:
EA/ANZ: CCBrower_
8 rlw 6/14/68
EA Mr. Blackburn
s/s
Csspats
s
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Eu Wlve Se `Retariat
Dj Af;M[VI uF state
QUT
1968 JUN K "1 8 46
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AUSTRALIAN Ek2+SS8
WASHMGTOX, D. C.
6th June, 1963
Dear Mr President ,
1 nave been esked by *Re Actirg %rira
Ninistel, Zne Rizht Hororabld_ &orn McEwen,2.2_
1
tc ccrve;
+0 Yox #c terzs 0 { tne Eessage Xe haz sert to %rs Rcccsi
Kennedy:
"ICal bohalf 0f +ne Austrelien {overnier t
ana people I convey. cur &eepest symngatky +0
in yolr tragic 1088 411 Justraliars pzev
te;
end_yotr femily Iill be 8treng-hered af tnf8
time I" wiah Jou :0 Xnow tnat 12fe
husbard ' s sociel echieverents pubiic moxks
hign moral odireze Rave Dzen reld in te hiznes:
esteer , WYe ir tris country are greatly sidcered
by his passing."
Your8 sicerely,
1
L_CC
(Keits %aller)
<
Axb3,3sado2
mne President ,
ene Wnite Kouse,
#ASEIEG7OA 2C
Joi
Sck?
ex2
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X
8/S Pendin
DEPA RTMENT OF STATE RSER FilzS
Washington, D.C. 20520 Attentioxfhtbbliz
this/study togethera
EA June 14, 1968
Pi
CONFIDENTIAL
(dF
MEMORANDUM FOR M_ WALT W_ ROSTOW
THE WHITE HOUSE
Subject: Reply to Message of Sympathy from
Vice President
Attached is a suggested mes sage from the President
4
to Vice President Ky of South Viet-Nam, replying to the
latter' s message of sympathy on the death of Senator
<
Robert F Kennedy .
A similar message of sympathy from President Thieu
S
has also been received, for which the standard reply
has already been prepared. While the President may not X
ordinarily reply directly to a Vice Presidential message
as we 11 we think in this case it would be highly
8
desirable
)
given the present delicate situation between
Thieu and Ky and our own somewhat delicate position in
the matter_ The President last week sent messages to
both expressing condolences on the accidental killing
of six Vietnamese officers by a rocket from a U.S.
helicopter June 2 .
S0
0
Benjamin H. Read
ol/t8
Executive Secretary
Enclosures :
a
1 Suggested Reply 2 S
PK
2 _ Message from Vice President Ky
Tzue Copy
CONFIDENTIAL
Downgraded at 12-year intervals;
not_automatically dec lassified_
EA/VN : JDRosenthal 6/13 Clearance: EA/VN-Mr_ Burke
EA-Anb Leonhart
8721
Keep
Ky
Sef Ll
(lfjay568
3iL :bpw
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[X6ane SF"Qe TARiAT
[I #GfiMi mI dF STatE
OUT
1588 .":f: XM 9 |0
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8721
CONFIDENTIAt
MEMORANDUM FOR MR. WALT w_ ROSTOR
THE WHITE HOUSE
Subject' Reply to; Meoeage ot Sympathy from
Viaa Pres_dent Ky
Attached* (Attachment A} J0 2 suggeated meseage from
2
the Prasident to VIce PrebIdent Ky of South Viet-Nam
replyIng to ehe latter' s meseage of sympathy On the death
of Senator Rabert F. Kennedy (Attachment B)
~
A cImilar meseage of syapathy from Prosldent Thteu
hag al80 been recelved for whfch the Btandard : reply- hag
already beon Preparea . Whfle the, Pregident may not
S
ordinarily 'reply dlrectly to 4 VIce PreoIdential megeage
a8 well wo think In_ thls Cabe It would be hlghly denlrable ,
gIven the progent delIcate aItuation between Thleu: and Ky
and our Owm somewhat dellcate. pobItlon In the matter _
The Pra8 dant laat week Bent Mebbageb to both expresLng
1
condolenoes On the accldental Kflling Df e1x Vletnanege
officerg by 8 rocket from 4 0.8,7 helicopter June 2_
8
Benjanin B. Read
ExeeutIve Secretary
Enclogures :
1
Ae stated.
7
CONEIDENZIAL
Downgraded 't 12-year fntervals}
cutomatIcally daolassIfled.
EA/VN : JDRo= nthal:bpw 6/13, Clearance: EAWN-Mr
Burkeklb
EA-Amb Leonhart
Ka
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DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Suggested_Reply
Mr _ Vice President:
On behalf of the people of the United States ,
I express my deep gratitude for your message of
sympathy on the tragic death of Senator Robert F
Kennedy . Our loss has indeed been great, and we
welcome your kind thoughts in our time 0f grief.
Sincerely,
His Excellency
Nguyen Cao
Vice President of the
Republic of Vietnan_
Ky ,
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13,79 Jlliv 71 1il 2 57
WNT 4 145/ 1A^ *VIA RCA
SAIGoN 1030 JUNE 7 1968
THE PRFSIDENT
TMF WHIIE HOUSE
N0|403/TT/vP
M . PRESIDENT,
(brke
I WAS GREATLY SHOCKED To LEARN ThaT SENATOR ROBERT
F , KENNEDY HAD FALLEN VICTIM OF A Wanton AND SENSELESS ;
1
ASSASSINATION_ SENATOR ROBERT KENNEDY DEV OTED ALL HIS ACTIVE
LIFETo THE SERVICE OF HIS COUNTRY AND OF THE WORLD COMMUNITY
AT LARGE. HE NOURISHED GREAT AND GENEROUS DREAMS About
BETTER W ORLD , AND EVEN THOSE WHO DO NoT SHARE HIS
CONCEPTS on HOw To ACHIEVE THESE LOFTY AIMS_ RESPECT and
ADMIrE HIS IDEALISM _ DEDICATION _ And C OURAGE_
On THIS Sad OCCaSIon, I W OULD LIKE To EXTEND To YOU ,
AND THROU GH YOU To THE AMERICAN CONGRESS AnD To THE AMERICAN
NATIon_ MY HEARTFELT CONDOLENCES on THE PASSInG Away OF
3
A GREAT AMERICAN, And SHOULD BE GRATEFUL IF YOU WOULD
~
3
~ 1
CONVEY MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY To THE FAMILY OF SENATOR ROBERT 7
KENNEDY STOPEND
5[NCEnEL ] ,
PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF VIETNAM
V N
Tskl
Mpx
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DEPARTMENT OF STATE;
ExECUTIVE; SECRETARIAT'
June 1968
MEMORANDUM FOR REGIONAL BUREAUS
SUBJECT' : Messages to the President on the Shooting
and Death of Senator Kennedy
Messages_ to the President from_Foreign_Dignitaries
Where appropriate , action offices will prepare
telegraphic replies incorporating the language shown in
attachment I_ Al1 such replies Will be cleared in S/s
by Mr _ Parker
2
Rm . 7239
9
X 7552, or the S/s Duty Officer.
Where action offices propose alternative language
>
such language should be submitted to S/S , cleared by
S/CPR, typed on white bond paper
2
(double spaced =
9
and
2
including proper salutation) on a green outgoing te legram
form complete with delivery and public affairs guidance-
A11 such messages should be submitted to s/s under a
Read-Rostow memorandum transmi tting the message _ A copy
4
of the message to which the language responds should be
attached_
In addition, action offices are asked to type a
copy of the incoming message on white bond paper as shown
in attachnent II to be submitted to S/s together with the
telegram of reply. These -copies in the original language
of the message
)
should be perfectly typed.
Telegrams Of reply are due in s/s at 12:00 noon ,
Tuesday , June 11.
6LRk
Alan Parker
S/s-S
Ext. 7552
10 ,
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(Attachment Id)
Hels inki
June 7, 1968
The President
The White House
Washington
Deeply grieved by the great loss to the United States
and to the world incurred by the tragic death of
Senator Robert Kennedy. I extend to you and the
American people my warmest sympathy.
Urho Kekkonen
President of the
Republic of Finland
1
3
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VP ' s off (Mr _ Rielly) approved
(Donpa Cunningham to jmj , 6/20/68)
FIS Pending
DEPA RTMENT OF STATE
washington, D.C. 20529
June 14, 1968
8592
8
COPIES TO:
s/8:31 MEMORANDUM FOR MR = JOHN E RIELLY
NA OFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT
NBATU
S/C2
5
Subject: Proposed Reply by Vice President to Message
from Acting President of Turkish Senate on
Death of Senator Kennedy
Enclosed is a message dated June 10 from Sirri Atalay_
Acting President of the Turkish Senate
)
expressing his
condolences on the death of Senator Robert F Kennedy The
Department recommends that the enclosed reply by the Vice
2
President be sent to Mr Atalay' s message If you agree
we will transmit the approved reply to our Embassy at Ankara
for delivery_ <
Benjamin H Read
S
Executive Secretary
Enc losures :
2
1_ Proposed reply `to
Mr Atalay' s June 10
3
message
2 Mr Atalay'8 June 10
message
1
33i0z n
It Clearances : S/CPR R. Johnston
s/S-S E. Denham (substance )
H - K. Folger
NEA
L J . M. Howfson
NEA/TUR: CRHartley:he:6/14/68
Ll
0
(QnhaoL
136
929 _
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SF=
4
IaRiAt
Ui STATF
Vul
1523 Jl;
C 04
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DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Suggested_Reply
Dear Senator Atalay
I am grateful for the e xpression of sympathy which
you and your fellow Senators have conveyed to me on the
tragic death of Senator Robert F . Kennedy _ As you have
been kind enough to observe , he was one of the most eminent
of the members of our legislature , and he championed the
ideals for a better world inl which we a11 believe My
fellow Americans share with me profound grief over his
loss and over the suffering it has caused his family
Sincerely_
>
Hubert H. Humphrey
His Excellency
Sirri Atalay
Acting President of the
Senate of the Turkish Republic _
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DEPARTMNT OF STATE CONTROL NO _
EXECUTIVE SECRETARIAT
8592
ACTION SLIP
WHTIE HOUSE REFERRAL
TO NEA Mr _ Scotes DATE 6/11/68
SUBJECT Ltr Erom Sirri Atalay re the death of RFKennedy transmitted fm
Melih Esenbel, Ambassador 6/10/68
Prepare a Read to Rielly NOTES
memo enclosing or containing:
Draft reply for President S 1 White House referrals must be
signature answered within 48 hours unless
Draft reply for signature by otherwise noted_ If aeadline
Vice President x cannot be met, inform S/s
Mamo for use &s enclosure to reply imediately &t extension given
by White House . below
Coment or recomendation.
2 Direct replies to White House mall
Drect reply: mst be signed at the Assistant or
Acting Assistant Secretary level
Furnish information copy under
cover of a_ Read to 3 Unless otherwise noted, direct
memo replies _ depending upon the addresszel
Comeback copy required for s/s _ of the incoming letter, must begin;
"The President has asked me to
Suiteble acknowledgent or other reply"' or 11 M has asked
appropriate handling: me to reply"
Furnish information copy of
reply, if any, under cover of Basic correspondence should be
a Read to memo _ returned when draft reply,
memorandum or coment or comebad
Refer to White House request of copy for the White is
requested_
77
FYI
7
Due in S/s by
6LiL_S
N
REMARKS
RXFK Prepare draft reply with Read /Rielly memo for Vice President' s
@pproval; explain that Dept would cable message if approved; als0
pare telegraphic green containinge message public affairs guidance
)
COPTES 'TO: and text of Turkish message .
S G Mr . Steigman (wlatt)
FoTt
H 5 Mr _ Briggs (wlatt)
AJec_eafker
Steff
7552
Ext
alcha
UuuZl
Rll
iyz
'ehd
kl [y
pre
==================================================
Page 29
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TURKISH EMBAsSY 8592
WASHINGTON_ D. C.
June 10 , 1968
Dear Mr Secretary,
I have the honor to transmit herewith a per -
sonal message addressed to the Vice President of the
United States from the Acting President of the Senate
of the Turkish Republic.
2
I would be most grateful if this message could
be forwarded to Vice President Humphrey
Please accept, Mr Secretary, the assurances
0
of my highest consideration
s
elwueac
encl_
KebissEdenbel
7
K
3
2
3
1
1968 JUN 12 M 9 26
==================================================
Page 30
==================================================
His Excellency
Hubert H_ Humphrey _
President of the United States Senate ,
Washington
)
D C ,
It is with profound sorrow that I have learned of
the tragic death of eminent Senator Robert F. Kennedy
as a result of wounds inflicted by an assassin _
Senator Robert F Kennedy was an ardent champion
of mankind 's highest ideals and of hope for peace and
well-being in our world . It is one of the ironies of
our age that , while Senator Kennedy was campaigning in
the Primaries , seeking the highest ffice in the United
States from which to further these very ideals , he should
be struck down by a brutal
>
senseless slaying.
The best guarantee of the future of mankind is the
democratic way of life made safe from acts of hatred
prejudice and brutality.
The United States of America stands bereft of an out-
standing leader the United States Senate of an illustrious
member and people everywhere aspiring for a better world
face a less hopeful future
On behalf of the members of the Senate of the Turkish
Republic and myself , I offer my deepest sympathy .
Sirri Atalay
Acting President
of the Senate of the
Turkish Republic
==================================================
Page 31
==================================================
SIS Pending
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
RSJR FILZS
Washington, D.C. 20520
Attention_
Illlii
8767 this Etudv/together.
June 14, 1968
CORIEB TO}
3/8;27
Aa
s/CR
MEMORANDUM FOR M= WALI W< ROSTOW Plc
THE WHITE HOUSE
Subject: Acknowledgement by the President of
the Condolence Message Received from
the Acting President of Costa Rica on
the Occasion of the Dath of Senator
Kennedy
There is enclosed a copy of the condolence message sent
3
to the President from the Acting President of Costa Rica on
the occasion of the death of Senator Robert F Kennedy _ The
Senator' s death occurred during the visit to Washington of
President Trejos of Costa Rica _ For that reason , the official
Presidential expression of condolence from Costa Rica was re-
ceived from the First Vice President of Costa Rica during his
2
exercise of the Presidency in the absence of President Trejos .
A suggested reply to the Costa Rican message is &l8o enclosed
Benjamin H: Read
&
Executive Secretary
Enclosures :
Hlseut
1
1 Suggested reply
2. Message from the Acting
0
President of Costa Rica
(Jane: /84<
Clearance:
s/CPR Mr . Sancho-Bonet
ARA REltz-
ARA/CEN: JEWillis:ger 6/11/68
A
Keep
clnlbs
I
E
==================================================
Page 32
==================================================
EXi Wtive TARIAT [Vi NI JF STATE
out
1263 JU' 1. 046 12
Sf rE
~ARTME
==================================================
Page 33
==================================================
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Suggested_Reply
Dear Mr _ Vice President:
The Republic of Costa Rica has seen and shared
our at the tragic death of Senator Robert Kennedy.
On behalf of al1 the people of the United States ,
I want to tell you how much we were strengthened and
consoled in a difficult time by your distinguished
President
9
and by your own gracious message .
Lyndon B Johnson
6
His Exce llency ,
Jorge Vega Rodriguez
9
First Vice President of
The Republic of Costa Rica,
San Jose .
grief
==================================================
Page 34
==================================================
Translation
The President
The white House
Washington
In the name of the Costa Rican Nation, I
beg your Exce llency to accept our sympathy over
the tragedy that has befallen the United States
of America in the death of the illustrious
Senator Robert F . Kennedy.
Jorge Vega Rodriguez
First Vice President
Acting President
of the Republic
==================================================
Page 35
==================================================
~S8 Pending
RSRR FILES
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
'Mtlbllt
Attention
Washington. D.C. 20520 thls Study together.
586 June 14 , 1968
Euk
cl c
MEMORANDUM FOR MR _ WALT W_ ROSTOW
THE WHITE HOUSE
Subject: Reply to Message of Condolence from Belgian Vice
Prime Minis Willy de Clercq
1
The approved reply to expressions of condolence on the
death of Senator Robert Kennedy was used to acknowledge a nessage
8
from the of Belgium. A proposed alternative reply to the
message from the Vice Prime Minister is submitted for your
3
approval _ De Clercg, a key NATO supporter and former Fulbrighter,
was received by President Johnson in March 1967
L
lutcu1
Uuayh y
Bercative "Seeeetary
1
Attachments : 71
1. Suggested Reply
2 . Vice Prime Minister' s Message to
Ko
the President
Hlsud
'Enks
Copy
Enxsaa> /8444
" 8 Fea:12
#,6mL /EyJj
=
EUR FBX:BBean :dl
6/11/68
Keep
ter,
King
Read*1
"9B4
==================================================
Page 36
==================================================
2
2
64
52 6
1 1
2
3
==================================================
Page 37
==================================================
88
Rsjr
85 86
MELORANDUM FOR MR - NALI W. ROBTOH
THE WHITE HOUSE
2
~
Subject: Reply to Mesgage of Condolence Erou Belgian vice
Prine Minieter , Willy de Clereq
The approved reply to expressiong oEeondolence on the
death OE Senator Robert Kennedy Was ubed t0 acknovledge
4 megeage
Erom the of Belgiu . A proposed alternative reply to the
ulesgage Eron the Vice Prine Minieter 18 subuLtted for your
approval DeClercd, 4 NATO gupporter and Eoruer Fulbrighter ,
wa8 rece ived President Johnson i March+1967
Ben janin H: Read
Executive Becretary
Attachuente :
1. Suggested Reply
2. Vice Priue Minister' & Mesgage to
the President
4
3
I5 M 8581
FcR: up Beaudey Mf
22
EUR: FBX: BBean :dl
6/11/68
'
King
key
by
0
1e8 Tch
46
==================================================
Page 38
==================================================
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==================================================
Page 39
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2
Ro L 6-2 US Keunsly
6 3 4 3 u
OUTGOING TELEGRAM
Department of State Fl
INDICATE: COLLECT
9
CHARGE To LIMITED OFFICIAL USE 8
Classification
Origin ACTION: Amembas sy LISBON Jwn 68 20
J4
Info: STATE
PLEASE PASS FOLLOWING MSSAGE FROM SECRETARY TO FOREIGN MINISTER FRANCO NOGUEIRA:
1 QUOTE Thank you for your thoughtful message of condolence on the tragic
death 0f Senator Robert F Kennedy . Your sympathy at this time of nationall
sorrow is deeply appreciated. UNQUOTE
W
2 _ QUOTE I shall, as you requested_ rXEx transmit your message to Mrs _ Kenredy
and members of the Senator S family.
Sincerely, Dean Rusk UNQUOTE
8
3 Department does not plan to release message, but has no objection to
release by Foreign Minister Franco Nogueira.
4, Following, FYI, is Foreign Minister 8 message to the Secretary:
QUOTH Having just been informed of the death of Senator Robert
Kennedy under tragic circumstances I wish to convey to you the
expression of my deepest sympathy for the sorrow the who le American
nation feels over such a violent crime which deserves the condemnation
of al1 men. I would ask you to be kind enough to present to
Mrs , Robert Kennedy and family the expression of condolences. Please
accept the assurances of my high consideration.
Franco Nogueira, Foreign Minister of Portugal
UNQUOTE
END
Drattod by: Tel. Ex_ Telegraphic transmission and
HXRuski
EUR: SPP:RLFunseth:mhs 6/14/68 5545 classification approved by: EUR: SPP George W_ Landau
Cloarancos:
S/S Mr.
ParkGU
EUR Mr_ Beaudri}
LIMITED OFFICIAL USE
FORM Classification
8-65
DS-322
1
==================================================
Page 40
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DEPARTMENT OF STATE
PfAebz
Washington, D.C_ 20520 June 14, 1968
NEA
RSJR 114z3
Pic MEMORANDUM FOR MR_ WALT W, ROSTOW
Attenttoxfbu/
Rf THE WHITE HOUSE thlg/study together:
Subject: Proposed Presidential Reply to Message
from Turkish Prime Minister on Death of
Senator Kennedy
Enclosed is a message dated June 7 from Prime
Minister Demirel of Turkey expressing his sorrow over
the death of Senator Robert F Kennedy The standard
reply which has already been approved by the White House
<
is being sent to Turkish President Sunay in answer to
his condolence message of the same date to the President.
The Department recommends that the enclosed Presidential
<
reply be sent to Prime Minister Demirel' s me ssage_
We propose to sent both messages simultaneously ,
S
following approval of the Demirel message _
0
bnli'
lze
Benjamin H. Read
4
Eecutive Secretary
Enclosures :
1. Proposed Reply to Prime Minister
1
Demirel' s Message
2 _ Prime Minister Demirel' s June 7 Message
n
L6 flk
0orz =;
154432-; /F4433)
NEA TUR :CRHartley:hf:6/11/68
Xeep
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Sf aflv
(onKzss
==================================================
Page 41
==================================================
SF ~Q EY exVE
DEFARIM
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TARVAT
STate Jf
OuT
==================================================
Page 42
==================================================
Modlrday RZ R: RalZ H. Dobd4
1 PET Eob!
Oubjact: Eroeened Brouldatlal Reply to Vadeee frota
Tnbob Prler Mtatotoren Death 0f fenacor Konnedy
Eneloced 1 0 58586 *ted Juno 7 Xren Ertoo XIaLotor
Dedtol 0t Turboy oxproootns hLo Cottoy OVor to dth 02
scantor Lobort ) , [ennody . Iao seradard Teply rAIch bae
#Lreedy bern]_Eprrovtd 0y tb0 MaJeo Boumo Ls beleb scat co
Turblob Prootdnat Stnay * Mot to hIe condolenco
<
5408ndd DI the 0er Aito Eo 0o Predldat.
Iho Bopartuat recotando thae tb eacloted BrcoldratLel
3
xoply b Oeat t9/ Prte? MLoLoter Mratrol ', 6ot0tso .
~
L `
sajeetn A. Read
Brecuelvo 8acroeary
Inelocuroo:
1
1, Propoped Aeply Co
3
Erte > Wlototor Dralrol '
Mrowdbo
2, Prle? Lnloeor EreLco) '0
Jio 7 Maneabo
1
Clearances :
NEA Mr.
Rodknelf
Miea Johngon
S /CPR Jx8d DJ "0w8
NEA :TUR:CRHarGey:hf:6/11/68
Dejez _
==================================================
Page 43
==================================================
PROPOSED PRES IDENTIAL REPLY TO_PRIM MINISTER DEMTREL
OF TURKEY
Dear Mr _ Prime Minister:
I am deeply moved your kind message on
the tragic death of Senator Robert F_ Kennedy .
Al1 Americans are grateful for the sympathy which
you and your Government have extended to us
Sincerely,
Lyndon B_ Johnson
by
==================================================
Page 44
==================================================
His Excellency
Lyndon Be Johnson
President of the United States of America ,
Washington_
9
D, C ,
I have learned with deep sorrow of the passing this morning
of distinguished Senator Robert Fe Kennedy. On behalf of
the Government of the Republic of Turkey and myself I offer
you my deep and heartfelt sympathy on this grievous loss to
the American Nation
0
Suleyman Demirel
Prime Minister of
Turkey .
1
==================================================
Page 45
==================================================
TURKIsH EMBAsSY
WASHINGTON, D. C
June 7 , 1968
My dear Mr _ Secretary,
I have the honor to transmit herewith a personal
message addressed to President Lyndon B_ Johnson from the
Prime Minister of Turkey, suleyman Demirel _
I would be most grateful if this message could be
forwarded to its high destination
Please accept, Mr Secretary, the assurances of
my highest consideration .
2
<
encl- Melih Esenbel
Ambassador
5
0
3
1
The Honorable
7
The Secretary of State,
Department of State,
Washington
2
D. C.
nehec 28
:
==================================================
Page 46
==================================================
TURKISH EMBAssY
WASHINGTON, D. C
June 7 1968
dear Mr . Secretary,
I have the honor to transmit herewith a personal
message addressed to President Lyndon B Johnson from the
President of the Republic of Turkey, Cevdet Sunay.
I would be most grateful if this message could
be forwarded to its high destination _
Please accept, Mr _ Secretary, the assurances of my
<
highest consideration _
Ope 4
encl . Melih Esenbel
Ambassador 1
1
)
The Honorable
X
The Secretary of State,
2
Department of State,
Washington _
)
D. C_
2
X
My
Eynt? zx -
5
1
==================================================
Page 47
==================================================
His Excellency
Lyndon B Johnson_
President of the United States of America,
Washington
9
D, C.
We are deeply distressed that One of the most outstanding
sons of America, in the prime of life, and on the threshold
of a great and dedicated service to his coun became the
victim of a hateful assassination,
On behalf of the Turkish people and myself I offer to you
and to the friendly and allied American nation my deepest
sympathy and condolences.
Cevdet Sunay
President of the
Republic of Turkey
1
try
==================================================
Page 48
==================================================
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
S/S Pending
WASHINGTON
June 14, 1968
IN REPLY REFER To:
8797
COPI?8 TO:
5/8:3
BA MEMORANDUM FOR MR - WALT W_ ROSTOW
Ean} THE WHITE HOUSE
elc
Subject: Message to the President from Governor General
Casey on the Death of Senator Kennedy
Enclosed is a telegram to the President from Governor
General Casey expressing condolences on the assa3sination
of Senator Kennedy _ A suggested reply is also enclosed
Benjamin HS Read
1
Executive Secretary
2
Enclosures:
1 Suggested reply.
&
2 _ TeLegram to the President
from Lord Casey .
+q
(Cankee :
2a
/85 02 /)
|
F
Cencuenceg
Mr. Blackburn
2
EA ANZ: CCBrower:rlw 6/4/68 s/s
efs/6s
Seuk
AFaka
1
E
==================================================
Page 49
==================================================
Ex FArVe Se~ReTAriAt
OFpartheni JptStRye"
Out
1983 JIin' 1
4 8 54
==================================================
Page 50
==================================================
SUGGESTED REPLY
Dear Lord Casey:
I was decply grateful for your telegram_ The knowledge
that your countrymen share our grief at the tragic loss of
Senator Kennedy is 3 source 0f great comfort and consolation
to me and to my fellow Americans _
Lyndon B Johnson
^
Y8