Caught between the choice of strict adherence to the 1973 statutory prohibition on U.S. activities in. over. or from off the shores of Indochina and his duty to uphold the lives and inte.ests of his countrymen and women. President Ford ignored the legislative restriction and took into his own hands the protection of Americans. Weeks later. while Congress was still tied up with its debate on the matter. President Ford announced that the Indochina evacuation was completed. Then. he pleaded for funds to pay for purely humanitarian assistance and transportation of refugees. but Congress rejected this request the very next day. Mr. President. this episode reveals all too clearly the inability of Congress to act decisively in time of need.
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refugees