Pivot--with Rockets

In the aftermath of the U2, the U.S. heard some wails from the fainter-hearted citizens of allied nations that U.S. bases might attract Russian rockets. But last week a refreshing note came from an unexpected quarter. Said Thailand's Premier Sarit Thanarat to reporters: "Thailand is the pivot of the free-world alliance in Asia. If one of our neighbors becomes dominated by Communists, rocket bases will be an absolute necessity." Tough Field Marshal Sarit named no names, but his message was obviously meant for Laos and, especially, Cambodia, whose Prince Sihanouk has been busily courting the Chinese Communists.

A member in good standing of SEATO. Thailand has not yet asked for U.S. rocket bases nor have they been offered. Militarily, rockets are probably not the appropriate answer to Communist penetration in a small neighboring nation. But the U.S. State Department, weary of hearing only the sound of complaints, found Sarit's voice a pleasant change. Said Sarit: "We are prepared to meet steel with steel anytime."

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