Transcript of pol_6-2_us_kennedy_06_18_1968_senator_robert_f._kennedy-part_2_of_5.pdf
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nij OrALE
FIELD U S. INFORMATION SERVICE
MESSAGE
ORCLASSIFIED
PoLlb-zus]Kernaa ,
Kx |i Classification
Roked s
A;fm``
FROM: USIS BOCOTA Ak A
126
1 NR
NESSAGE No.
M | 3 05 FW '"68
To: USIA WABHINGTON
JOINT BIATE /UBIA Receive 1, ioa/Sc
REF: None June 25, 1968 s] cp ^
DATE
SUBJECT: Senator Kenedy Death p RSAR COPY
Cu Phte Leopy_nust_bereturned
AGENCY USE to the RM/R document files.
SUARY: EMBASSY PARTICIPATED Il_MEMARIAL
ACTIVITIES FOLLOWING SENATOR KENNEDY 'S DEATH ,
ACTION WHICH CAUSED SHOCK AND SADNBSS THROUGHOUT
COLOMBIA . AMBASSADOR REYNOLD E_ CARLSON
ATTENDED TwO MMORIAL SERVICES TWICE MADE
PUBLIC DECLARATIONS ON BEHALP ' OF U.S . U,S ,
INFO: INPORMATION SERVICE PROVIDED ABUNDANT FRESS ,
4
FIIM AND RADIO MATERIALS TO MEDIA .
4
C The death of Senator Robert F_ Kennedy produced en outpourIng of 8 Lncere (6
grief and eympathy In the pree8 and public here_ More than 1000 perbon8
(65 BLgned thelr nae8 In tvo condolence book8 , placed in the Chancery lobby
ad In the Ambaseador 8 regLdence , end over three hundred pore vrote ((s
lettere of condolence .
FYIk
MemorLal church service8 were held all over Colombie, and Ambassador Reynold
(eS E Carlson ad membere of hte staff actended three 8uch 8ervlce8 In Bogota,
at two of chtch the Ambasgador briefly The most Lmpre88Ive of these tu clk
Va8 on June 9 at Ciudad Kennedy where 8 memorfal ma88 5a0 celebrated On
the etepe of the church before a throng estimated at 10,000 gathered In Lup:
the plaza. The otherg were a ma88 et the Engl eh SpeakIng Chaplaincy On
June 8, and eervIcee at the Dormtow PreebyterLan Church on Wedneo (9p(
Jue 12 _
The AnbabBador twice made Btatementb for the medla, on June 5, while
hope8 remalned for Senator Kennedy'1 burvival and On June 6 , after he
died. Thebe declarationg appeared in mobt Colombian newepaper8 were
broadcast by the two televi8 Lon btattone and by all major radio networke ,
4 brlef 8tatement wa8 aleo gLven out by Mre . Cerleon In rebponbe to
request8 by woqen edltore of the local pre88 .
Ska
DurLng the perlod of mourning a photographic d1eplay of highlighte of
Senator Kennedy' 8 career was placed Ln the Chancery Lobby , ad the flag
PAGE PAGES
L OF 3
DRI ED BY DATE APPROVED BY
DCM: RAStevengon
845
B DBHolk:c 6/25/68
The Anba8sador its
USIS AND OTHER CLEARANCES
EIBB/ADIMALa "Df8xe
Classification
EmLiST Tme "waa Om Waste" USE aiapouch INSTeD Of TELEGRAMS ACTIONCOPY
[AC
L
(mv
epoke .
day
'8
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3 3
PAGE OF UNCLASSIFIED
ENCL. NO_
CLASSIFICA TION FIELD MSG. NO_
126
FROM USIS-Bogota
hookup wIth 8ome 150 utatLono to an eetimated 10 mfllion Colobiane Every
network In ColombLe, 0 well 0 several influentlal high-wattege Individual
8tat Lone ohered In thLe connectLon , begInnLng at 7 8,0 Wedne8 June 5, and
continuLng through Sunday , June 9, during VOA 8 broadcast houre Supplementing
VOA Spantab broedcaote USIS Bogota also prepared and broadca8t through the hook-
up 8 taped bLography of Sanator Kennedy , 80 well a8 the declarations of the
Ambaeeador
9
and, for IndlvLdual natwork8 , three epecLal pProgremb On Senator
Kennedy .
IV_FILMS, In addltlon to filmg of Ambaa8ador Carlson 8 two declerations
broadcaet over the nation 8 two TV channele USIS prepered two TV
bpeclale relatIng to the a88a88Lnation--& revlew of Senator Kennedy' 9 career
on June 7 ad a portrelt of Ethel Kennedy on June 11 both On the national
Tv channel Both of thebe progra8 depended pctorally on the artistic u8e
of atill photographe _ Later, TV and newgreel fllo arrived trom USIA in Waehington;
these were all placed_ They totalled eLght new8 for TV, and four 35mm
clLpe for tbeater8 Two of the vere given to Novedade8 a newe fIlm agency
WIth 250 theaters @cTob8 the country; and to Pan AmerIcan , whfch bervLce8
newsreele to 8 BLollar nuber of theater8
The nuerou8 lettere and telegrams recelved by the Embabey are being answered;
a8 of thL8 date are Bt1ll recelved. On June 24, the Governor of
Cundinamarca delIvered to Ambaseador Carl8on a copy of his Decree of June 6
dlrectIng Elege to be flowm at hal f mast for three at all public buil
of the department _ 48 well a8 expressing condolence8 to the Governent and
people of the Uutted State8 and to the Kennedy faily. Thie Decree a8 well
a8 the condolence booke and a 8electton of the letters and telegrame of
Bympathy WIll be gent later to the Department for po88ible forwerding to the
Kennedy fally_
}
unle88 the Department indicateg to the contrary. Newepaper
clippinge to date about Senator Kennedy' 8 death have al80 been aggembled and
wil1 be forward at thet tIme _
Evuuw Mu
Ednund R. Murphy
Public Affairs Officer
UNCLASS IFIED
CLASSIFICA TION
day
cltp8
clipe
two,
being they
dinge day8
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DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Sle3
Washington, D.C. 20520
Approved as is KX Mr Bowdler
9282 by Alice Caubet , 6/29/68 :mf
Sent 4:37 P.m_ 6/29/68 June 25 , 1968
COPIES To:
S/S;RP
(Zeuco"/94018
ARA
ARA/LA/IDIL
S/cPR
~3 MMORANDM FOR MRe WAI W_ ROSTOW
THE WHITE HOUSE
Hz
Subject: Message to the President on the Death
of Senator Kennedy 8
In response to the telegram of June 8 from Mr -
5
Arturo Jauregui, Secretary-General of ORIT , the
Department recommends that the standard format of
reply be slightly <ered in order to take into
account the sender S position as Secretary-General
of a multinational labor confederation_
6
A suggested reply is enclosed and the original
correspondence is returned for your files -
euutuel
Benjamin H Read/
Executive Secretary
1
Enclosures :
1 Suggested reply. 11
2 Telegram from Arturo Jauregui,
dated June 8,
Br
()
A
iNAR
Lx 6/2o/68
Clearances : LA/ID:RCulbertson
LA/ID/L:WABell:avb
8 /CFR Me Aeell j
s /s-8
AeR-t:
RSER
FILES
Attention
JRSL4LLeIL_
:his
study
tocether_
MICROFILNED
1968
RS/1
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{> : "'YF Qf TARiAT
): Sk:Mi^ Jf Staf
IUT
18844 73 8 |9
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SUGGESTED MESSAGE FROM PRES IDENT TO ARTURO JAUREGUT ,
SECRETARY-GENERAL , ORIT
The tragic and untimely death of Senator Robert F_
Kennedy has come as 8 great shock to all Americans _ On
behalf of the people of the United States I express my
deepest appreciation for your words of sympathy _
The knowledge that your many fellow workers share our
grief is a source of great comfort and consolation. I shall
transmit your message to Mrs _ Kennedy &nd members of the
Senator S femily .
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TELECOMMUNICATIONS OPERATIONS DIVISION WORK COPY
LITTED 027ICLAL US%
t1
Arerbassy MEXICO CITX
STNTE
PLZASE PASS FOLLOKIIC IESSIGE FROM FRESIDZMT T0 ARIURO JAUREGUI, ORTT:
1, QIE Tkc tragic &nd untizely dcath of Senator Robert P. Kenredy kaB
coje a8 a Ezcat chack to 0ll.Anericans , On bebalf of tbe reople of tke
Unitea States, I exprCss ry decpest apprecietion for your Lozds of 8yctathy.
2, CZ Tbe krowlcdge tbat your #ony fellow workers skare car Erier is 8
Gurce of Ereat cojjfort ara consaletlon. I shall transmit your Reaeage to
Mis . Kenncdy GLd Eeabers of tbe Senator 1 8 fonily. Iyndon B. Johnson UWLE
3, Enite House does not plan to releaze kessage, bDut bab no objection
to rclense by Jaurezul.
4_ Fbllou IYI, i8 text Of' Jeurczui 8 resge to tke Presidect:
QK In tbe naize of 28 #illlon workcrs In Anerica pleage accept Our
condolences on tke denth of Robert F. Kennedty 0 grcat Azerican citizen
ocd 0 true friend of thc Workirc people of the vorld STOP His spirit
ana idcala %ill live on, Arturo Jaurc3j Cereral Secretario OZIT . UEME
ARA-LA/io/:uaell,Jr. 5893 AEA-LA/ID :Thoms E. #alsh
LNID:RCulbcrtson s JCFR
s/s-
LIITED OFNICTAL USE
FORm
Corrections made on original green MUST be made on this and other
8-65
DS-322 work copies before delivery to Telecommunications Operations Division
ine,
flimsy
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Uktivi
17 M, UsLL
DEPARTMENT Of STATE
Lalid
W.isine:l,U,C. z0,2n
wT ML)
m KRA
p1 Pouua?
FOR APPROPRIATE HANDLING
Lchnolrfes|
Alan Parker
S/s-S
Ext . 7552
8 - W'eh € FV #n
Sys ,
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U U ~
Jun |j 9 48 (i 'G8
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12.3 JuN 3 A 9 38
WA 131 MEX 44
MEXICOCITY MEX JUN 7
9282
THE PRESIDENT
ThZ WHITE HOUSE
In TKE NAMZ OF 23 MILLION WORKERS In AMERICA PLEASE ACCEPT OUR
CODOLZVCES Oiv' TKZ DEATx OF ROBERT F KENNEDY A GREAT AMERICAN CITIZEN
AND A TRUE FRIEND JF THE WORKINS PEOPLE OF THE WORLD STOP HIS
SP IRIT AND IDEALS WILL LIVE oN
ARTURO JAURESUI GENERAL SECRETARIO OORIT.
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DEPARTMENT OF STATE
~SIS Pendig
Washington, D.C. 20520
9096 June 25 , 1968
Cleared by White House (FKIED)
with one
COPIS TO: change per Alice Caubet
to Helen Brown 6/26/68
s/S:2F
BUR MEMORANDUM FOR MR- WALT W_ ROSTOW (
GBR THE WHITE HOUSE
Subject: Kennedy Death--FRG Ex-Chancellor
Erhard' s Letter of Condolence to b6n
the President
42 / eerx
(Bodu
1 91613
In reply to Mr _ Smith' s request of June 17 , I
enclose ex-FRG Chancellor Erhard' s letter to the
President of June 8 , 1968 sending his condolences HB
on the death of Senator Kennedy , thanking the President
for a souvenir photo album, and wishing the President
success in his quest for peace in Viet-Nam_
2
The President has seen ex-Chancellor Erhard on
several occasions since his departure from office in
5
November 1966 _ the last time in March of this year ,
when the President gave a luncheon for him at the
White House In view of the friendly personal relations
between the President and the former Chancellor, I woula
recommend a personal reply from the President. A
suggested text is enclosed_
3efjamiz 1
H.
AUesd4
L
Executive Secretary
Enclosures:
{
14 Ex-Chancellor Erhard' s letter
to the President.
%oc;, 2 _ Suggested reply.
7:
7
EUR/GER: TJHirschfeld: lpb Clearances: GER Mr . Johnpoll
6/25/68 X-4989 EUR '~LR nEfl Ol|
s/8#9096 s/S
AnI Ull _
7,48
A
8
:Wed
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Exesutivf SCRETARiAT
DEPARTMENI 0f Statf
OUT
198 JUl: 7. { 7 26
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DEPARTHENT OF STAtE
divisiok 0f language Services
(traaslatioa)
Ls no. 2727
T-67/R-12
German
Professor Dr _ Ludwig Erhard
9096
Bonn , June 8 , 1968
Dear Mr _ President ,
My esteemed friend ,
It was with great pleasure that I received the
photo album _ The pictures will always remind me
in grateful remembrance and appreciation , of the
many meetings and talks which I had the pleasure
and honor of having with you_
I fulfill a sad when I express to you 1
the
President of the United States my sincere condolences
on the cruel death of Senator Kennedy . May your
country be spared from further disturbances and may
you succeed in bringing about peace in Vietnam while
still in office_
With deep respect and cordial regards , I
Yours truly,
[Signature]
His Excellency
President of the United States of America,
Lyndon B _ Johnson ,
The White House,
Washington , D. C .
duty
am,
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DEPARTMNT OF STATE CONTROL NO_
EXECUTIVE SECRETARIAT
ACTION SLIP EC
WHTTE HOUSE REFERRAL
s/s 9096
TO EUR Mr _ Suchman DATE 6/21/68
SUBJECTMemo fm WH: SMTTH to s/s for action re condolence message on the
death of Senator Kennedy fm ERHARD, also expresses thanks for the
picture album sent by Pres _ Johnson_
XXXXPrepare a Read to ROSTOW NOTES
memo enclosing or containing:
Draft reply for President S 1 White House referrals must be
signature ansvered within 48 hours unless
Draft reply for signature by otherwise noted _ If aeadline
cannot be inform 8/s
Memo for use as enclosure to reply imediately at extension given
by White House _ below
XXXXXComent or recomendation_
2 Direct replies to White House mail
Direct 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
2
depending upon the addresseel
Comeback copy required for s/s of the incoming letter, must begin:
"The President has asked me to
Suttable acknowledgment or other reply" or M1 M_ has asked
appropriate handling: me to reply"
Furnish information copy of
reply , 1f any, under cover of Basic correspondence should be
& Read to memo returned when draft reply,
memorandum or comment or comeback
XXXXRefer to White House request of copy for the White House is
Mr . Smith of 6/17 requested_
FYI
XXXXDue in s/s byN June 25
REMARKS
COPIES TO:
Will am Shepard
Steff Fecretgi36
Ext
6hy
met ,
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THE WHITE HOUSE
Time SENT
Situotlor Room LDx MSC:
white HousE NR; NUMBER,OF
NMCC PAGES_
STATE
E1 (7/655.
CIa
FRoM: DEsCRiPTion AND Comment: BOuLEK
SMITH
MAk WE HAvE R
To; Sk_BEN_KELD_
TRANSLATION RND
RECOMMEUDED REPLK _
APPROP RIATE
'DEFRRTTYETT 0f STATE
Gi
1928 JUH"17' PM} 4
Recelvod By Dato / Tlme;
Form
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PRORESSOR DR; LUDWIG ERHARD Bonn , den 8 , Jun1 1968
9096
Sehr verehrter Hert Prasident ,
mein hoch geschatzter Freund
Mit der ttbersendung de8 Fotoalbus haben Sie mir eine genz
groke Freude bereitet, Die Bilder werden mich imme c iCl
denkbarer Erinnerung und Verbundenheit der vieler Bege€-
nungen und Gesprache gedenken lassen, dfe ich da8 Gluck
wnd die Ehre hette, Iit Ihnen fthren z4 aurfer .
Ich erfille eine traurige Pflicht , wenn ich Ihren, dem
Prasidenten der Vereinigten Staaten , zu dem greusamen Tod
von Senator Kennedy mein herzliches Beileid eue9preche .
Moge Ihr Land von weiteren Wirren verschont bleiben
und moge es Ihnen gelingen , noch wehrend Ihrer Amtszeit
2
Qen Frieder in Vietnam einzuleiten, 2
Mi$ besonderer Wertschetzung und herzlichen Grlssen
bin Ich, Kerr President ,
L
S,E;
1
dem Presidenten
der Voreinigten Steaten vom Amerika
Herrn Iyndon B, Johnson
The Walte House
#eBhin& t_0n
Sat uou
DC
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TELECOMMUNICATIONS OPERATIONS DIVISION WORK COPY
UNCIASSITID
Amerhawsy RoN:
STATF
1 . PIRASE PASs FOTLO#ING XRSSAGB FRO:M PRRSINSNT 70 fX-CNANCTTLOR
CRMAAD:
QTE Dear r. Chancellor:
I was touched Your tessage of condolence on the crvel
by
death of Senator Kennec an:l,your kores for peac? whicl, as
You know, I share, Xin thoughts fron old friene are
espccially Melcone on suc s2d occasions.
Sincerely,
Jyneon Fa Wolnson TNCIK
2, Mhite Louste does not plan to release Messngc, but has no
onjection to release Trhard .
3_ Follo:ing, FYI, i8 Knglish text of ex-Chancellor Erhard' &
message to the President:
STE Dear %ra Presicent,
esteere.l Eriena,
It was sith great pleasure hat I receiver? the photo
albu:. The pictures Will alvy? reiin me , in grateful re brawce
UR/GE: JMirschfela:lpk 6/25/63 4959 EUR/Gri
V Br. Johnpoll
FTR 4
Er. Reaury s/s G
Mhite House
{TUCL SSITIED)
FORM
Corrections made on original green MUST be made on Ihis and other
8-65
DS-322 work copies before delivery to Telecommunications Operations Division
hy
bY
Hy
flimsy
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TELECOMMUNICATIONS OPERATIONS DIVISION WORK COPY
DOIN
DNCLASSIFITD
and appreciation, 0f tha many mectings ana talks mhich J had
the pleasure ena tonor of having with Yom.
I fulfill 4 sad when I exprese to yow, the President:
of the {niter States, #Y sincore con lolences Or the cruel
dexth of Senator Fennerly. Your country Ye spared {ron
further disturh,ances and Yow succecd in bringing ahout peace
in Vietnan #iile stfll in office.
[ith dee? reapect an: cordiel regards, I
Yours truly,
Tldwig Srhard CQzr
ERD_
Form
Corrections made on origina? FgfeenMUST: Be made on this and cther
962
DS-322A flimsy_work_copies belare delverx_ta_Telecommunications Oneratians Division
duty
!ay
mny
380
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DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Suggested Reply
Dear Mr Chancellor:
I was touched by your message of condolence on the
cruel death of Senator Kennedy and by your hopes for
peace which, as you know I share_ Kind thoughts from
old friends are especially welcome on such sad occasions
Sincerely,
Lyndon B Johnson
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Dpatteont of Scate boo) recelved tbe knd
Dote 0f Juma 6, 1960, tron tbe Bebosey 0f tbe DoaLolcad
RepublIc convoyLns tbe condolenceo OE tbo CovrrtE#dt
che pbusey on tbo deatb 0E Senacor Roberc F .
Fennedy . Roto bao been]_taken tbat tbe Preoldent o2 cba
4
BnLatcen RepublIc bao decroed a OEfLctal 0f
eournlrg td that ebe Dudalced bc boen flor at
2
balf eat Io trlbute to hLo Eteory .
6
Tbo Deperternt 0{ State "PprOcLaces tbe Babaoey'
Dordo 0X eyePathy On tbe deeth of Senntor Kennedy .
Depottrdt Of] Stato,
[
June2 5, 1968
Haohlostoa
Clegrances: ARA ICAR-Mr Greer
S ' CPR-Mr _ Ael1 Adisrm
S ! S-Mrs Denham
ARA 'CAR:RTBooth:lk € /20 /68
4+13578 Ext . 1(83
Jun :_4 J968 , PM
JUn 2 51968 PM
ed
dy
Elag
4ilb 6B^
7
s/s-scVicl
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EMBAJADA DE LA REPUBLICA DOMINICANA -
WASHINGTON
I;
Onf
de Junio de 1968
AC:i:;
IN,}
RM /R 1:
La Embajada de la Republica Dominicana saluda
ACTION
is
assigned to
muy atentamente al Departamento de Estado de los Estados
Unidos y tiene el honor de manifestarle el pesar que
Ak
embarga &l Gobierno de La Republica Dominicana J a los
miembros de esta Mision con motivo del tragico falleci_
miento del Senador Robert F Kennedy _
EL Presidente de 1a Republica, Doctor Joaquin
Balaguer , ha decretado duelo oficial el dia 8 del presente 2
mes y el pabellon de la Republica Dominicana se ha mante_
nido a media asta COmo tributo de duelo en memoria del
ilustre legislador fallecido_
{
La Embajada de Ia Republica Dominicana hace
3
provecho de esta oportunidad para reiterar al Departamento
:
de Estado su mas distinguida consideracion_
)ehg
1j5[y Uc/te-.
7
7
Departamento de Estado
Washington, D_ C .
Eck , RtBsay
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DEPARTMENT OF STATE
division 0f Language services
(Translation)
LS Wo. 2598
T-97/R-XX
Spanish 6 3
'EMBASSY OF THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
WASHINGTON
28 7
June 6 , 1968
The Embassy of the Dominican Republic presents its cOm-
pliments to the Department of State 0f the United States and
has the honor to convey to it the condolences of the Govern-
ment of the Dominican Republic and of the members of this
Mission over the tragic death of Senator Robert F _ Kennedy.
The President of the Republic , Dr _ Joaquin Balaguer has
decreed an official of mourning on June 8 and the flag
of the Dominican Republic will be flown at half mast in tribute
to the memory of the illustrious legislator_
The Embassy of the Dominican Republic avails itself of
6{
this opportunity to renew to the Department of State the
assurances of its most distinguished consideration _
13578
[Initialed]
Department of State ,
Washington , D.C .
day
6-/4
1
1
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3f (sl 6-2
usJRo;,18865 /7
9 6 5 |
OUtGOINg TELEGRAM
Department of State 3
INDICATE: COLLECT 3
CHARGE To LIMITED OFFICIAL USE
Classification
8
Origin ACTION: Amembassy MEXICO 2 4 Jun &8 23 8
{
Infot STATE
1 Please pass following message from President to Senator
Manuel Aguirre President Gran Comision:
QUOTE The tragic and untimely death of Senator
1
Robert F Kennedy has come as a great shock to al1
Americans On behalf of the people 0f the United
States , I express my
appreciation for your deepest
sympathy
The knowledge that your colleagues and countrymen
share our grief is a source of great comfort and
consolation I shall transmit your message to
%y
Mrs _ Kennedy and members of the Senator S family .
Lyndon B Johnson UNQUOTE
2 White House does not to release message , but
has no objection to release by Senator Aguirre
4
Drolftod by: Tol. Ext_ Telographic transmigion and
ARA/MEX:WDBOZes :mrg 6/14/68 8855
classilicetion approved
ARA /MEX Mr Myers
Clearancos:
ARA Miss Eltz S/s Mr BXXKY Brown
WHITE HOUSE CLEARANCE NOT REQUIRED
LIMITED OFFICIAL USE
FORM Classification
8-65
DS-322
HICRBFILMED
RS/3
plan
Dmx
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2 Amembassy MEXICO
of telegram to_
LIMITED OFFICIAL USE
Classification
3 _ Following, FYI, is text of Aguirre S message to
the President:
QUOTE El Senado de la Republica Mexicana suplica
a usted recibir la expresion de su mas profunda
condolencia por la muerte del Senor Senador
Robert F Kennedy acaecida
en las tragicas
circunstancias que lamentamos hondamente UNQUOTE
KATZENBACH
L
LIMITED OFFICIAL USE
FORM
0-63
DS-322A Classification
CONTINUATiON ShEET
Page *
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Q4Y Action
DEP ARTMFNT OF STATE
H 2 Poz 6 - 2 Us
INennesy
RM/ R REP A F
AIRGRAM
Kobeet F
20 FOR RM USE ONLY
ARA EUR A-594 UNCLASSIFIED
NEA CU INR No HANDLING INDIC AtoR
DEPARTMNT OF STATE
3fcFived Rsinn) Fi ke
10
FBO AID Lu
3 2s Pi i.u ;
Juw
/5
+rq
CH
AGR com FRB FROM Amembassy CANBERRA DATE: June 1968
INT LAB TAR SUBJECT Condolence Messages Regarding the Death of Senator Robert F_
Kennedy
T R XMB AIR REF
ARMY CIA NA VY
Messages of condolence addressed to the Embassy regarding the death
Osd USi A NSA of Senator Robert Kennedy are enclosed, along with carbons of the
Charge S replies _ You may wish to forward then to the Kennedy fam-
There are also a number of unopened letters addressed directly to
members of the Kennedy family. We would appreciate your forward-
these _
Additional messages of condolence being forwarded to the Embassy
by consulates will be transmitted _
CRONK
3
4
2
4
1
Enclosures: &l mm .
As Stated
UNCLASSIF IED FOR DEPT USE ONLY
FORM DS - 323 Yo Out
Dralted by: Contenta and Crasaiication Approved by:
POL JDH Imj 6/24/68 POL: JVMartin
Clearances:
IEal
To
Li :_
24,
ily.
ing
ger
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Action
[KP ARTMFNT OF ST ATK Fo1 6 2 Usja;:*nm"Y,
11
AIRGRAM
Kince [
FOR RM USF ONLY
^ 0} 4 f (1< 27 WNCLASSI'IZC
N E A CIJ INR No AANDLING INDIcA TOR
To Jepertrent of 3bate
1O
00 AT0
4 GR COM F [<
Anbiobessy 'AlNGKOK
DA TE: FROM
INT T 4 F? SUBJECT condolenc : Book 4 Lenator oher'; }= K'nnely
T R KMf} A ! /2 REF
4 AMY (i4 N^ v Y
1J+ Jn} - is forwarding herewith the Robert F Kennedy eondolelice
0$0 U51 A NSA book for transmission to his farily.
Conaoleuce booh$ Were placed in the lobby bhe Erbessy and the
Ambassador ' $ residence frcin 1l:00 8 .m, , Friday June 7 through
Sundey , Jule 9, wnere they were available 80 those who wiched to
pay tneir respects to Senator Kennedy in this wey .
Several memorial services were hela in Bengkok _ Tne Ior € impor6,anL
On es were a Mass celebrated by the Apostolic Delegate at tile Holy
Redeemer Church and 8 Service et the Christ Memiorial Church, Bangkok _
UNGER
Lx 1: 'h
1 Enclosure: Condolence Book Senator Kennedy
UNCLASS Ir' TED FOR nEPT US F ONLY
() fM DS - 323 [TXn (ut
int' [ and on ADMIN :Jhdoraluler nph 6/18/63 A8MH5 REFTS o A8rerz8x
(eatar c s:
>e /'
4sey
01'
==================================================
Page 26
==================================================
Rs] k
189
T Ky %ir
Gcilor
0re t Gditi Aretlc+
Rt 64cad Aede
10 Mut Te Juraie
York; Jort 10221
Da erb4
Ieolkaar Kc "4 tale 1 joly J# Iottor
Js " 0 Mle # Oloto'
Mrestte Collerio,
G) Dut Gnte dwe
RD
#lm * MoAr #Aubl Sorata
ab nurt 2
Leaazet ;
creode
2
&
s/s control No. 8711
NEA/GRK: IMDunn : gld
4
X
Jor
I
1
Rin
==================================================
Page 27
==================================================
DEPARTMENT OF STATE ilt CONTROL NO
EXECUTIVE SECRETARIAT T i
ACTION SLIP
Trans ferred from
WHTTE HOUSE REFERRAL
S /CPR. s/s 8711
TO NA Mr Scotes DATE 6/17/68
SUBJECT Ltr
to Pres from BACOPULOS dtd 6/11/68 re enc losure of tel fm
Patriarch ATHENAGORAS I re death 0f Senator Kennedy . Trans feral
memo from WH by SMITH.
Prepare a Read to NOTES
memo enclosing or containing:
Draft reply for President S 1 White House referrals must be
signature answered within 48 bours unless
Draft reply for signature by otherwise notea _ If aeadline
cannot be met , inform S/s
Memo for use as enclosure to reply imediately at extension given
by White House below
Coment or recommendation _
2_ Direct replies to White House mail
XXXXDirect_reply: mst be s1gned at the Assistant or
Acting Assistant Secretary level_
Furnish information copy under
cover of a Read to 3- Unless otherwise noted, direct
mem replies_
)
depending upon the addressae
Comeback copy required for S/s _ of the incoming Letter, must begin:
"The President has asked me to
Suitable acknowledgment or other reply" or has asked
appropriate handling: me to reply"
Furnish information copy Of
reply , 1f any, under cover Of Basic correspondence shoula be
a Read to memo . returned when draft reply,
memorandum or comment or comeback
Refer to White House request of copy for the White House is
requested _
FYI
Due In 8/s by
REMARKS
COPIES TO:
H 5 Mr Briggs (wlatt)
Robert G. Houdek
Secretariat Steff
Ext 4154
"M
==================================================
Page 28
==================================================
DEPARTMNT OF STATE CONTROL NO _
EXECUTIVE SECRETARIAT
ACTION SLIP
WETTE_HOUSE_REFERR IcEIVEQ
JiRanuIN8f STATE s/s 8711'
To ~SICFR MI . K7g
SUBJECT Ltr
MEKE to Pres . from BACOPULOS dtd 6/11/68 re enc losure' of tel
fm Patriarch ATHENAGORAS I re death;3;
{etoEFKernedy:
Trans feral
memo from WH by SMTTH
Prepare 8 Read to NOTES
memo enclosing or containing:
Draft reply for President' s 1 White House referrels must be
signature _ answered within 48 bours unless
Draft reply for sigature by otherwise noted If aeadline
cannot be met , inform s/s
Memo for use as enclosure to reply imediately &t extension given
by White House below
Comment or recomendation _
2 Direct replies to White House mail
XXX Direct reply: mst be signea at the Assistant or
Acting Assistant Secretary level_
Furnish information copy under
cover of 8 Read to 3J Unless otherwise noted, direct
mem replies_ depending upon the addressael
Comeback copy required for s/s. of the incoming letter, must begin:
"The President has asked me to
Suitable acknowledgment or other reply" or "M . has asked
appropriate handling: me to reply"
Furnish information copy Of
reply , if any, under cover of 4 Basic correspondence shoula be
8 Read to memo returned when draft reply,
memorandum or comment or comeback
Refer to White House request of copy for the White House is
requested .
FYI
Due in S/s by
REMARKS
COPIES To:
YVL
Robert G. Houdek
Secretariat Staff
Ext 4154
STs;
==================================================
Page 29
==================================================
8711
GpeeS OBTEODOX_ARChDjoceSe OF_NOBT6 AND SOUTh AMCRICA
GAAHINIKE OPOOAOZOC APXICTICKOTI BopeIg Ky NOTIg AMCPEKHC
10 EAST 79th STREET, NEW York,N.Y. 10021 TEL_: OXford 7-1211 CABLE: ArchGrEek, NEw York
June 11,1968
The President, Lyndon B. Johnson
The White House
Washington, D C.
dear Mr . President:
At His Eminence, Archbishop Iakovos direction,
I have the honour to convey the following translation of a
telegram received from His Holiness, Ecumenical Patriarch
Athenagoras I, in Istanbul, Tur
"You are requested to represent us at the funeral
of the late Robert Francis Kennedy, and convey to President
Johnson and the late Senator's wife, parents ' and family the
following message: Most Shocked at tragic death: of out-
standing man, Robert F. Kennedy,
we espress our deepest
sympathy, and share in the great tragedy, which has befallen
you. We pray that the Lord will rest his soul. Ecumenical
Patriarch Athenagoras I. ' "
Faithfully,
2.
YSaoueo>
Re (eorge J, Bacopulos
CHANCELLOR
Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of
North and South America
GJB:er
My
key.
h
Very
==================================================
Page 30
==================================================
{TAmAT
39
1968 JUN 13 PM
5 13
5
{22
2 2
3
1
==================================================
Page 31
==================================================
THE WHITE HOUSE
WAshington
June 13, 1968
TO; S.S, Mr . Ben Read
FROM: Bromley Smith
For your direct reply.
3
Re: Gondsleisek
07
2
Eea?h Rou: lkdt
6
Kennea
0
&
I
[
#wuxl
==================================================
Page 32
==================================================
Form Ds- 10 DATE
1.55 DEPAR TmEnT 0 F StatE
R E F E R E n c E S L | P
ORGaN iniTiALS DaTe
name 0 R Ti FL E SymBOL Room no , BL DG ,
Pb2_#1ar
17&4
NEA
2.
KsLe
3.
5
PPR OVA L NOTE And F ORWARD
As REQ UESTEd NOTE And RETuRn
C OMME NT PER CONVERSATion
FOR YOUR NF ORMAILON PRE PARE REPLY
initiAl FOR CLEARANCE SEEE ME
NECESSARY Action S IGNATURE
REMARKS OR Add it |ONA L Rout nG Gp0 07 45 56
From N AME And 0 R Gan | Zation) Room NO _ and BLDG,
S| CNATURE PHONE No , Ll
ALk /
==================================================
Page 33
==================================================
Action
DFP ARTMFNT OF STATE
Tm/
1i/ - .
M Rfn ^ F
AIRGRAM
Ksna!h-
RM ONLY
Ax 0'1107 3 A-496 UNCLASSIFIED
NEA INR No. HANDLING INDIcA ToR
To Department of State
P 10
23
Fbo AID
Ju ! ,
12
1}
Ffpe
AGR com FRB FROM Amembassy HELS INKI DATE: June 22, 1968
INT L4 8 TAR SUBJECT Embassy Book of Condolence on the Death of Senator
Robert Kennedy
T R Xmb AIR REF
ARMY CiA NA VY
090 Usi A NSA
Following the news of the death of Senator Robert KENNEDY on
1 0 June 6 the Embassy placed a book 0f condolence in the Embassy
reception roOm and announced through the press ana radio that
Finnish Government officials and diplomatic representatives
were welcome to sign the book
Pr ime Minister Mauno KOIVISTO and the Secretary General of
the Foreign Office Jorma VANAMO were the first to sign the
book on June 6 They were followed the majority of the
Chiefs of Diplomatic Missions in Helsinki and other diplo-
matic representatives a wide range of Finnish Government
1 officials_ Members of Parliament and representatives of
religious cultural_ athletic, educational political, youtH
and student organizations _
1
The Embassy also received a considerable number of messages
of condolence from a broad spectrum of the Finnish people_
Karl-Erik FORS SELL the Bishop Of the Porvoo Diocese _ re-
quested on behalf of the Swedish-language congregation in
Finland that his letter be forwarded to Mr s Ethel Kennedy
The Bishop' s letter ana an English translation are enclosed _
It is requested that this letter and the Embassy s book of
condolence be sent to Mrs _ Robert Kennedy _
THOMPSON
Enclosures
UNCLA SSIFIED FCR DEPI USE ONLY
Foam
02
DS - 323 In Out
Traftcd By: contcnts @nd Clgaimcaion Approved by:
POL PFCanney: dkw:bhm DCM JHShullaw
Clearanccs:
P2 &-1 US/
Ro seet F
HEAfW'
FRR
by
(if Nvpy
==================================================
Page 34
==================================================
Oae 6-2
"3fz,Rut, 8 & 8 2 4
OUTGOING TELEGRAM
Department of State 3
INDICATE: COLLECT 9
CHARGE To LIMITED OFFICIAL USE
Y 3
Classification
8
Origin ACTION: Amembassy QUITO 2 2 Jun &8 0 |
192
Intot
STATE
1. Following is text of message to President Johnson from
Minister of Health Dr Guillermo Molina DeFranc : QUOTE
3
The President
4
The White Hous e
Washington
nombre pueblo Ecuatoriano Excmo reciba uS ted el
sentimiento de intimo pegar porila muerte prematura
del Senador Robert Kennedy. Atte.
Dr _ Guillermo Molina DeFranc
Minister of Public Health
of Ecuador
UNQUOTE _
2 J Request Charge make appropriate acknowledgment on behalf
of Pregident in manner deemed appropriate.
END
Ex RUSK
Drattod by: ARA EP LCKilday TMcG :ngl Tal_ Ext . Telegrophic transmission and
6119168_ 5957 classification opproved by: #BALEEz Lawrence H Berlin
Cloarancos:
ARA Miss Eltz s/s Mr parkt
S / CPR
e Mr Abell (subs)
LIMITED OFFICIAL USE
FoRm Classification
8-65
DS-322
ICEFYLMED
ES/B
==================================================
Page 35
==================================================
59 POL 6-2 US /KENNEDY . ROBERT
F .
1 8 & 8 2 6
OUtGoIng TELEGRAM
Department of State 8
INDICATE: COLleCT
F
9
CHARGE To LIMITED OFFICIAL USE 8
Classification
Oripin
8
ACTION: Amembassy KINGSTON
2.2 Jun &b UL2Iz
Into:
STATE :
PLEASE PASS FOLLOWING MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT TO GOVERNOR GENERAL :
1. QTE The tragic and untimely death 0f Senator Robert F
Kennedy has come as a great shock to al1 Americans . On
behalf of the people of the United States , I express my
deepest appreciation for your words of sympathy . UNQTE
S
2 . QTE The knowledge that you share
our grief is a source
of great comfort and consolation. I shall transmit your
8
message to Mrs. Kennedy and members 0f the Senator S
family.
Lyndon B Johnson UNQTE
3 . White House does not to release message, but has
no objection to release by the Governor General.
4, Following, FYI, is text of the Governor General' s
message to the President:
QTE The Governor General and people of Jamaica
mourn the tragic death of Senator Robert
bx
Kennedy and to convey to the President
Draftod Tel: Ext_ Telegraphic transmission and
ARA
YcAR:DPMatthews :kns
Ow 7751
classificalion approved by:
ARA/ CAR Edward Long
Cloarancos:
ARA Miss Eltzym
sls NXXRE+REr Walker
LIMITED OFFICIAL USE
FORM Classification
8-65 DS-322
plan
ViemoFilb
beg
==================================================
Page 36
==================================================
Page_ 2 of telegram to_ Amembassy KINGSTON
LIMITED OFFICIAL USE
Clussification
0f the United States of America, Mrs. Kennedy ,
members of their feily and all the United
States of America our sincere condolence in
this cruel and wanton assassination of the
Senator UNQTE
END .
"RUSKI
LIMITED OFFICIAL USE
FORM
0-63
DS-322A Classification
CONTINUATION SHEET
==================================================
Page 37
==================================================
59 POL 6-2 US /KENNEDY ROBERTF
OUTGOING TELEGRAM
Department of State
16 8 8 2 5
INDICATE: Dcollect 9
CHARGE To
(J
LIMITED OFFICIAL USE
Classification
8
Origin
8
ACTION: Amembassy KINGSTON
22Jvns: 04
Info:
STATE :
PLEASE PASS FOLLOWING MESSAGE FROM PRESTDENT To PRIME MINISTER:
1. QTE The tragic and untimely death of Senator Robert F
Kennedy has come a8 a great shock to al1 Americans . On
behalf of the people of the United States , I express my
deepest appreciation for your words of sympathy and your
8
presence at the burial services . UNQTE
2 , QTE The knowledge that you share our grief is a source
of great comfort and consolation. I shall transmit your
message to Mrs. Kennedy &nd members of the Senator S family.
Lyndon B. Johsnon UNQTE
3 _ White House does not plan to release message, but has
no objection to release by Prime Minister
4. Following, FYI , is text of the Prime Minister 8 message
to the President:
QTE A11 Jamaica profoundly shocked at news of
Drattod by: Tel. Ext_ Telegraphic transmission and
ARAICAR DPMatthews:kms 7751 classification approved by: ARA / CAR Edward T
Wong
Cloarances:
ARA Miss S / CPR Mr Abell
s/s
wiker
LIMITED OFFICIAL USE
FORM Classification
8-65
DS-324
[
Eltzlvr
==================================================
Page 38
==================================================
2 of telegram to Amembassy_KINGSTON
LIMITED OFFICIAL USE
Classification
attempted assassination of Senator Robert Kennedy.
The Government and people 0f Jamaica send you
their deepest sympathy and pray for his recovery.
Grateful if sincere condolences be conveyed to
Mrs. Kennedy ad family
on our behalf_ UNQTE
END .
RUSK
LIMITED OFFICTAL USE
ForM
0-63
DS-322A Classification
CONTinUATion SHEET
Page
==================================================
Page 39
==================================================
POL 6-2 US /KENNEDY ,
59
OUTGOING TELEGRAM
Department of State
ROBERT F
INDICATE: COLLECT
9
CHARGE To LIMITED OFFICIAL USE 8
Classification
8
Origin ACTION: Amembassy KINGSTON
22 Jun59 182
Into:
STATE :
PLEASE PASS FOLLOWING MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT TO SIR ALEXANDER
BUSTAMANTE :
1 QTE On behalf 0f the people of the United States, I
express my deepest appreciation for your kind message 0f
sympathy on the death of Senator Robert F Kennedy UNQTE
~
2 _ QTE As you have requested
9
I shall transmit your
message to Mrs. Kennedy and members of the Senator S
{
family. Lyndon B. Johnson UNQTE
3_ White House does not plan to release message, but has
no objection to release by Sir Alexander Bustamante.
S
4. Following, is text of Sir Alexander Bustamante S
message to the President:
QTE I am shocked and horrified at the tragic news
0f the shooting of Senator Robert Kennedy.
This is another blot on civilization. I extend
to you, the people of the U,S,A. and the Kennedy
Draftod by: Tol. Ext _ Telegraphic transmission and
ARA/ CAR :DPMatthews :kms 7751
classilication approvod by:
ARA / CAR Chspar D. Green
Closrancos:
ARA Miss
Eltzey
s/s Mxxxcperbee Mr = Walker
LIMITED OFFICIAL USE
FORM Classification
8-65
DS-322
178 8 8 2 91
1
FYI ,
==================================================
Page 40
==================================================
Page_ 2 of telegram to_ AmembassyKINGSTON
LIMITED OFFICIAL USE
Classification
family my deepest sympathy . It is a shame such
savagery continues . UNQTE
END .
RUSK
LIMITED OFFICIAL USE
FORM
0-63
DS-322A Classification
CONTINUATION SHEET
==================================================
Page 41
==================================================
Ac Tion
DEP ARTMENT OF STATE
Pb2 & -
~u-kexveoy
Rm A REP AF
2
AIRGRAM
Rober7
FOR RM: USE ONLY
ARA EUR Fe
4-333 JNCLASSTEIEED
NEA CU (NR No HAnDLinG indicatom
To Department of State FEcEiVED
10
INFO RAWAIPINDI
Fbo Aid Je 2? 3 2PXXSS:
AGR com FR0 FROM AmConGen DACCA DATE: ue '968
inT L 0 TAR SUBJECT Tranaittal of East Pakistan Assembly Message of Condolence to Mrsa
Robert F Kennedy
TR Xmb Air REF A-331 Dacca
Army Cia NAvY
Mttached 1s the Mesgage of Condolence montioned in referenced airgram from
Os0 Usi A NSA the East Pakistan Assembly which was received by tile Congulate General for
transittal to Mrs. Robert F. Kennedy- The me ssage is the text of the
Speaker S remarks of June 7, 1968.
JL {itcorz _
Vp
Enclosure No. 1: Messago of Condolence (to Washington only)
1
Form
"GAL
UNCLASSIFTED ROR QEPT USE QNLX
Io Out
62
Drafted by Contento Qad Cijoicotion Approved by: POL:ERStupf:alk :Dacca:6/19/68
Clearuoces:
==================================================
Page 42
==================================================
SIS Penaiing
DEPA RTMENT OF STATE
Washington, D.C_ 20520
June 1968
9076 Approved by Bowdler
Aca re Alice Caubet 6/21
AJG
Ptc
AeY
ckzl Rzm 198843
CF
MEMORANDUM FOR MR. WALT W ROSTOW
THE WHITE HOUSE
Subject: Presidential Reply to Message
#
from Sir Alexander Bustamante
on Death of Senator Kennedy
If the White House approved draft Presidential
message were used in response to a message from Sir
Alexander Bustamante it would be identical to one
8a
also being sent to Jamaica S Governor General_ To
avoid possible embarras3ment should the two Presi-
dential messages be compared
)
the Department recommends
slight changes in the message to Bustamante to give
3
it a personal toucha A proposed reply is enclosed
0
4
amenUfallec
Benjamin H. Read
2
Executive Secretary
0
0
Enclosures : s/s
P}
1. Message from Sir Alexander Bustamante
A True Cop
2 Suggested Presidential Reply
Clearances :
ARA
Mi88 Eltz Rnx
ARA / CAR Mr Green s/s Mr Parker
ARA/CAR:DPMatthews:ks:6/19-20/68
21 ,
72
L
==================================================
Page 43
==================================================
{Utive SF Re
FGsartmeruf
Cii
7!12 21
J
TARIAT
STATE
Out
1985
==================================================
Page 44
==================================================
sboekad mnd borzLety} Ot cotenta Decd
01' eho ehaoetey %Innear @ C J4 Lo
cothe ' D1ot 0Mv lLaetea; 1 Sej Iou; to
Patoko % tht W,o.a, rity I4ly dorpeoe
Uepethy, Ie W 0 4 Oo Oneipp
Meteatu Eeolve4 Gca A Lyooi Iiattton {rea
Jli Mtoider
U
7
==================================================
Page 45
==================================================
2144 1li_N QJ
ta Dl Panli Gv 8 Cattod Dentdo
Doud dotpaot Kor. jour LLAd DOOE
Jyepaehy 0 CLa' dara 9_ Octor Dobet %; Knnahr
M Jou au 5onlrutdd, X ca) enrate >uut
Dodcnco 7o Denety O Dcaator
tetly. Iall
Jakncon
Trc
==================================================
Page 46
==================================================
ORIGIN/AcTION
DEP ARTMENT OF STATE
2
AFRGRAM Vsz
6-1" / cx
F
RM/R REP A F
FOR RM USE ONLY
A RA EUR FE
A-46 INCLASSIFTED_ ATR_PQUICH
NEA CU INR No HANDLING INDICA TQR
To Department of State
10
2
Info Amembassy ROME (POL, USIS , CSCO)
FBO AID Ju
(_
s/4P2
AGR com FRB FROM Anconsul FLORENCE DATE: 'June 1968
INT LAB TAR SUBJECT Memorial Observances in Florence for Senator Robert F Kennedy
TR XMB AIR REF
ARMY CIA NAVY
SUMARY
Osd USIA NSA
D 3
The grief of the Americen and Italien community of Florence over
the death of Senator Robert F_ Kennedy was expressed in memorial
services 8ignetures in 8 book of condolence, a flood of telegrams
and letters , and extensive newspaper coverage _
* * * *
The following expresgions of mourning for Senator Robert F Kennedy took
place in Florence during the period June 6-15, 1968:
1. A requiem mess , with lerge attendance was held at the St _ James 2
American Episcopal Church , by the Reverena John Tederstrom, Priest-in-
Charge , assisted by the Reverend George Church, Rector of St . Mark S
3 Anglican Church - I
2. A memorial service was also held with large attendance at the
St_ James American Church on Sundey = June 9 During the service the
4
American Consul General in Florence, Joseph C . Wheeler , made the remarks
enclosed as Attachment 1_
3. A book of condolences was started at the Consulate, and has been
signed" by over 1,000 people including those attending the services noted
above _ The book is enclosed for forwarding to the Kennedy femily
9 as
eppropriete_
4 More than one hundred telegrams and letters have been received
and acknowledged by the Consulate.
FOR DEPT USE ONLY
FORM
UNCLASSIFIED
DS -323 In Out
4 - 62
Drafted by: Contents aad CTassification Approved y:
CG :JCWheeler k 6/18/68
Clearances:
Kanndy
Jequekee elev
ahqu
M
21 ,
Lub
61
==================================================
Page 47
==================================================
UNCLASSIFIED 2
A-46
Florence
5 _ On June 7, the employees of the museums and gelleries
and other public offices observed five minutes of silence in memory
of Senator Kennedy Employees of nuerous private esteblishments
did the same In one cese , the management forbade this end the
workers promptly vent on strike for two hours .
6_ On June 1l, 1968 , a requiem mass was held under the
sponsorship of the Mayor and the city government at the Cetholic
church , Orsenmichele_ The church wa8 full
9
end among the many
euthorities present were Avvocato Luciano BAUSI Mayor of Florence ,
Eccellenza Manfredi De BERNART Prefect of Florence Eccellenza
Generale Massimo De PALMA , Commandant of the Tosco-Emiliane Military
District nuerous Consuls Of other countries the American Consul
General and the staff of the Consulate. During the course of the
service, a choral group of Americans sang Battle Hymn of the
M m Republic" and America
Following the mass , the City Council devoted the first
pert of a special session to the memory of Senator Kennedy _ Excerpts
from the Mayor S remerks , and the originel text
9 are enclosed as
Attachent 2
7 We are aware of nemorial services hela in San Gimigneno
San Marino. Undoubtedly there were many others in the Florence
Consuler District_
8_ The press devoted much space to the tregic event and the
verious deilies like "La Nazione" "il Resto del Carlino" end "Il
Telegrafo" cerried detailed degcriptions of the reectiong which took
plece in the main centers of Tusceny Emilie Romagna . The Florence
Ii Mi editions of the two socielist pepers Avanti and "Il Lavoro devoted
prominent space to the event The best erticle, however , i8 the
editorial by Enrico MATTEI in "La Nezione" on June 9, in which tbe
writer in perspective the figure of the two brothers , John and
Robert Kennedy -
WVHEELER
Attachments : 1 ana 2 a8 stated in text _
bm&
UNCLASSIFIED
"The
end
put
Ww
O1
==================================================
Page 48
==================================================
Summery of Remarks Attachment 2
Florence A-46
of
(Attorney) Luciano Bausi, Mayor of Florence
On the Death Of Robert Kennedy
City Councll Meeting June_11 1968
The Meyor began by saying that blood had been shed on the of those who
merch towerd freedon and peace , and Robert F_ Kennedy was the last victim.
Beusi recalled the friendly ties which bind Florence to the Kennedy femily
for the open hend offered by them at the time of the flood in November 1966 ,
and that Florence feels an attachment
3 as the Kennedy brothers did, to the
If same frontiers to face an historical chellenge which could be determining
for the destiny of humanity.
Robert Kennedy
9
continued Beusi like his brother John _
9 was One of those who
II advocated & new humanism "Gaudium et spes in which man can assue his
rightful responsibility towerd his brothers and towerd history _
Robert Kennedy rejected politics a8 8_ small, nerrow game of chess , where
clever moves end tacticel maneuvers frequently becone 8 petty end unto itself_
Robert Kennedy_ like his brother John, overturned the chess-board and pre-
ferred to fece the chellenge of the years we are living in_ He was able to
attract the young people of restless Americe, 85 he defined, in a_ very cleer
manner the true problems of mankind L
misery , reciel discrimination , end
peece
Those who die, and by their death ceuse a renewed feith even in the ferthest
places of the world, are the ones who make the higtory of humanity; are
those who pursue a battle which never ends and which i8 renewed egein every
the conquest of peace , which i9 justice, and of freedom, which i8 elso
justice. Robert Kennedy was among them _ He had moral courage the kind
of courege which, 4s he hinself said, is rarer than boldness during a battle
and rarer than greet Intelligence, but in any cese is essential for every
human conquest .
Grief and dismay _ however find their light in hope. Evil end violent forces
mey temporarily subjugete truth; oppression can suffocate freedom; but in
the long run this epparent winner will be defeated_
path
"new
they
day
==================================================
Page 49
==================================================
Attachment 1
4-46 from Florence
Remarks of
JOSEPH C WHEELER
CONSUL GENERAL OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMEERICA
at the
MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR SENATOR ROBERT KENNEDY
read at the
ST _ JAMES ' AMERICAN CHURCH , FLORENCE , JUNE 9,
# * * # * *
This i8 the second tine vithin two months that I have stood here to read
a Pregidentiel Proclametion after the deeth , by essa8sinetion, of a
revered and gifted American Zeader who dedicated his life to progres8 and
social justice in our country , by peaceful meens .
President Johnson spoke for all of us when he gaid "there are no words
equal to the horror of this tragedy" and thet "divisiveness and violence
T must be driven from the hearts of men everywhere
In too many countries_ including our own , voices have been heard in recent
years
9
preaching violence 8s the wey to achieve politicel ends _ People
are being told by extrenist leaders that traditional political means are
outdeted thet fighting the establishment by constitutional means is
unaccepteble.
This is not to say thet this latest act of senseless violence cen be blamed
on any one of the new anarchistic movements_ But it is cleer thet the
theory of violence a8 a legitimate weapon 0f politicel werfare is ebout
the most dangerous phenomenon of our times Furthermore , these excesbes
ere self-defeating because they cause resistance to urgently needed reforms
to achieve civil rights for ell, and the elimination of poverty and soctal
injustice from our land Ci and may even lead to repressive action from the
other extreme end of the politicel spectrum-
Mi who glorify violence as a form of political action the President
11 tola a student audience last week ere really the best friends the status
quo ever had They inspire among many people & blind ellegience to things
as are Ce even when those things should be changed
It is true thet politicel e8sassination wes not invented in our country
or in this age And we cannot expect security measures to be fully effective
in our public life and politicel campeigns _ A cendidate, such a8 Robert
M1 Kennedy
9
who wented the "feel" and the "touch of people
3
and sought close
physicel contact with crowds every can never by fully protected .
1968
only
"Those
they
dey .
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2
Rathers his protection must come from 8 general reelization that violence
hes no plece in our national life.
At the funerel of his slein brother
3
Senator Edwerd Kennedy delivered an
eulogy to hi8 brother He said
"We loved him &8 & brother end as a father and as 8 son _ From
his perents and from his older brothers and sisters
9
Joe and
Kathleen end Jack, he received en inspiretion which he passed
on to all of uS
"He geve us strength in time of trouble, wisdom in time of
uncerteinty and sharing in time of heppiness . He will elweys be by
our side.
is not an easy feeling to into words Nor is loyelty or
trust or joy - But he was all of these . He loved life completely
Vi and he lived it intensely_
He closed his eulogy by saying
brother need not be idealized or enlerged in death beyond what
he was in life. He should be remembered sinply a8 a and decent
man who saw wrong and tried to right saw suffering end tried to
heel it, saw war and tried to it.
of 4s who loved him and who take him to his rest todey prey
that what he was to us , and what he wished for others _
3
will some
come to pess for all the world,
MI As he said many times , in many parts of this nation, to those he
touched and who sought to touch him:
1 Some men see things a8 ere and say why _ I dream things
that never were and sey , not?
Following the death of Robert Kennedy , the President issued the following
statement :
"This is a time of tregedy loss . Senator Robert F_ Kennedy is
dead .
"Robert Kennedy affirmed this country affirmed the essential decency
of its people, their longing for peace, their desire to improve
conditions of life for ell
"Love put
"My
good
it,
stop
"Those
day
they
1Mi why
end