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SAIGON 10389 111159Z

ACTION DPW-01

INFO OCT-0I EA-11 ADP-00 SSO-00 NSCE-00 USIE-00 IWRE-00

SUBJECT: PW REPORT BY NVA DEFECTOR

REF: STATE 112133

1. NVA rallier/defector Nguyen Than Son was surfaced by GVN to press June 8 in Saigon. In follow on interview with AP, UPI, and NBC American Correspondents, questions elicited information that he had seen six prisoners whom he believed were Americans who had not yet been released. American Officer present at interview requested new services to play down details; AP mention was consistent with embargo request, while UPI and NBC after talk with Embassy Press Officer omitted item entirely form their stories.

2. Details on rallier's account being reported septel through Military channels by Bright Light Message today.

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