Daily Archives: October 18, 2011

Kennedy advisers arrive in Vietnam 50 years ago today (1961)

(Wednesday, October 18, 1961) — Two key advisers to U.S. President John F. Kennedy, General Maxwell Taylor and Walt Rostow, arrived today in Saigon, South Vietnam.

Their visit coincided with a serious flood. They would recommend a big increase in military aid, including U.S. combat troops disguised as flood fighters.

President Ngo Dinh Diem would say no to the troops. He needed U.S. support, but he wanted to keep control, and he wanted to keep the foreigners out.

Paul McCartney rehearses for ‘The Concert for New York City’ 10 years ago today (2001)

(Thursday, October 18, 2001) — Rock star Paul McCartney was filmed today in New York rehearsing for his performance at The Concert For New York, a benefit concert in response to the September 11 attacks in 2001. Continue reading Paul McCartney rehearses for ‘The Concert for New York City’ 10 years ago today (2001)