ABSTRACT
Intelligence in Vietnam played out a drama in 1967 that ended in tragedy. When the communists attacked with a ferocity that belied their ‘bankrupt’ characterization, the Tet Effect ensued and the trust that the American public had placed in its leadership, military, and intelligence crumbled, as did their will to continue the war. Intelligence was at the center of the drama and a key contributor to the Tet Effect. A close examination of the intelligence drama of 1967 and the ensuring Tet Effect tragedy reveals four important morals, guiding principles for intelligence. Given the tremendous trust the American public places in intelligence to provide accurate information, it is essential that the lessons of this drama guide future endeavors and that these principles guard against another Tet Effect.
