Photo provided by Donald Hinman 65/66. Dated 21 August 1965.
From: Commander in Chief, U. S. Pacific Fleet.
1. The results of Operation STARLITE were most gratifying. I join with the President in sending heartfelt thanks and congratulations. The brilliantly planned and coordinated execution of the Operation is a testimonial to the time tested attributes of initiative coordination, professionalism and devotion to duty. The Officers and men who participated in the Operation can reflect great pride in demonstrating these attributes.
2. Please convey my compliments "Well Done" to the officers and men who participated in Operation STARLITE. "Warm Regards".
Signed: Admiral U.S. Grant SHARP Jr.
From: The President of the United States
1. I extend my heartfelt thanks and congratulations - I and those of the American people - to the military units under your command which have achieved clearcut victory against the last Viet Cong regiment of CHU LAI. This nation is deeply proud of its fearless fighting sons. They will have the continued, united, and determined support of their people at home. Our hearts go out to the families and comrades of those who have given their lives.
2. I know that the men who have won this victory will show the traditional generosity of the American Armed Forces to those whom they have defeated. We must prove all our actions that the path to peace for these adversaries is through return and reconcilliation and not through continued aggression. The courage and skill of our men in battle will be matched by their maganimity when the battle ends, and all American military action in Vietnam will stop as soon as aggression by others is stopped.
Signed Lyndon B. Johnsosn