[For Simulation Purposes]

The White House

Office of the President

Washington, D.C.

MEMORANDUM FOR TONY LAKE

Tony, after watching CNN the other night, I realize that something has to be done about Somalia. You know we discussed this the other day in the oval office over lunch and you concurred. Of course you realize that my main priority is domestic issues and James, while a little rough around the edges, is not completely wrong concerning the American electorate. The public wants me to get a handle on the economy and get the nation moving again. As a consequence, I don't want to get bogged down in a morass, which I fear Somalia can easily become if we are not too careful. Les over in the Pentagon has not been much of a help, all he recommends is more troops. I realize Bush made the first commitment and we're stuck for the moment, but I need solutions.  I will have George contact you tomorrow, but what I need is for you to put together a team to provide recommendations from State, Pentagon, NSC, DIA, and the CIA. What's our mission? Long-term goals in Somalia? Endgame? Of course, talk to Colin too. Why not create a working group and come up with some answers for me by July 24. 

                            Bill