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February 28, 1972

Introduction

This almanac page for Monday, February 28, 1972, pulls together various records created by the federal government and links to additional resources which can provide context about the events of the day.

Previous Date: Sunday, February 27, 1972

Next Date: Tuesday, February 29, 1972

Schedule and Public Documents

  • The Daily Diary files represent a consolidated record of the President's activities. Visit the finding aid to learn more.

    The President's day began at Ching Kiang Guest House, Shanghai, People's Republic of China

  • The Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents made available transcripts of the President's news conferences; messages to Congress; public speeches, remarks, and statements; and other Presidential materials released by the White House.

    Digitized versions can be found at HathiTrust.

  • Each Public Papers of the Presidents volume contains the papers and speeches of the President of the United States that were issued by the White House Office of the Press Secretary during the time period specified by the volume. The material is presented in chronological order, and the dates shown in the headings are the dates of the documents or events. In instances when the release date differs from the date of the document itself, that fact is shown in the text note.

    To ensure accuracy, remarks have been checked against audio recordings (when available) and signed documents have been checked against the original, unless otherwise noted. Editors have provided text notes and cross references for purposes of identification or clarity.

  • The Federal Register is the official daily publication for rules, proposed rules, and notices of federal agencies and organizations, as well as executive orders and other Presidential documents.

    No Federal Register published on this date

  • The Congressional Record is the official daily record of the debates and proceedings of the U.S. Congress.

  • Argued

    Granted

Archival Holdings

Any selection of archival documents will necessarily be partial. You should use the documents and folders identified below as a starting place, but consult the linked collection finding aids and folder title lists and the collections themselves for context. Many documents to be found this way do not lend themselves to association with specific dates, but are essential to a complete understanding of the material.

  • Selective document listing

    President's Office Files

    The President's Office Files consists of materials drawn together by the Special Files Unit from several administrative subdivisions within the White House Office. It is the handwriting and sensitive papers sent to the Staff Secretary that now comprise much of the President's Office Files. Visit the finding aid to learn more.

    President's Personal File

    The President's Personal File is essentially a President's secretary's file, kept by Rose Mary Woods, personal secretary to the President, for two purposes: (1) preserving for posterity a collection of documents particularly close to the President, whether because he dictated or annotated them, or because of the importance of the correspondent or the event concerned and (2) giving appropriate attention–letters of gratitude, invitations to White House social events, and the like–to members and important friends and supporters of the Nixon administration. This generalization does not describe all the varied materials of a file group which is essentially a miscellany, but it does identify the reason for the existence of the file group's core. Visit the finding aid to learn more.

  • Source: News Summaries - February 1972 [4 of 4], box 47, White House Special Files: Staff Member and Office Files: Unmarked News Summaries

    TV COVERAGE OF THE PRESIDENT'S RETURN

    February 28, 1972

    Collingwood opened over band music and packed hanger crowd, saying that this has been "the most remarkable pilgrimage of a US chief executive in modern history." Still history must determine the results of this "unprecedented" trip. Then came RN remarks in Shanghai over footage of crowd. RN film alternated with crowd shots. Very effective as was all the coverage from Andrews. There was an air of excitement which could be felt -- and one says this having witnessed many such televised air port arrivals and departures. Music and size of crowd was impressive thruout altho the hanger noise was somewhat disconcerting during the Veep's remarks and less so during RN.
         CBS commentators discussed aspects of trip during wait for S '76. Cronkite struck by honesty and cleanliness and Rather by the snow cleaning operation which reflected the very organized and tightly disciplined society. Ross Terrill said trip shows US pulling back a bit from Asia; the ceremony concealed to some degree the new live-and-let-live US-Sino relationship. China sees US as far less a problem; the beginning of give and take between the 2 countries is here.
         Collingwood noted this was a far larger and warmer welcome than any in China and there've been a few cases of Admin. officials urging employees to show. Rather said impression is calculated to show that everyone left behind is at Andrews. He estimated crowd at 7,500 or more after an initial estimate of 5,000. Note of the freshly painted hanger floor -- reporters skeptical over coincidence. Note that access was limited -- this isn't public at large but employees of the Govt. Dan further noted presence of Army band, flags, heralders. Hill leaders, the diplomatic corps -- even Dobrynin who rarely comes to such affairs and his. presence with Shen's absence is "interesting."
         Following arrival of VP and children, Cronkite said RN probably had expected more; nothing much beyond HAK's exploratory talks was accomplished tho trip did put high level stamp of approval of the new relations. We may have to wait to find out more results but it does seem that RN hoped for more positive developments on the exchanges. RN did emphasize thruout that main goal was a beginning on the building of the bridge -- it is that but not much more, said Walter.
         Rather agreed that RN did get less than expected tho RN was pleased overall. But there may be some surprises being stockpiled to be dropped later such as those POWs being held by China. Might even be a mild surprise tonite, said Dan who said one had to be cautious with assessments of communique as more significant policies resulting from trip could be enunciated.
         Then the arrival of the plane with Rather note that it arrived at a prearranged spot set by TV adviser Goode. Hanger is filled and overflowing observed Dan who termed Mrs. Nixon "an unqualified success" -- extremely popular in China. Then the deplaning and the very animated hand-shakes. RN with a word or two for each person. As Rather said, RN/PN looked more rested than they'd appeared in 8 days of a very gruelling journey which RN rested from in Anchorage where he also got a haircut and made it possible to arrive in DC in prime time. Note of Buchanan presence on trip -- believed to have helped with some expected RN remarks on arrival. Embrace from diplomatic corps chief and then the Veep's intro following good shot of RN-Veep comments to each other. Another impressive shot at speech's conclusion -- RN/VP/S'76/Presidential Seal as "America the Beautiful" was played.
         As RN walked to chopper and til it revved up blades, Rather dwelled on the hecklers -- - no more than a dozen and no move made against them. Dan also noted some of crowd left during RN remarks due to traffic jam. Cronkite surprised that any hecklers were there at all considering the "invitations only" affair -- 16,000 tickets went to gov't officials. Perhaps some disaffected -- or perhaps, as would have been easy -- fell into others' hands. Rather noted the contrast with PRC in having any hecklers at such a ceremony.
         Sevareid felt there were no secret deals and he told of the total absence of news about the agreements aboard S '76 on the way back. WH aides were pleased with domestic political reaction, especially EMK's remarks which Sevareid said went further than many of reporters would have.
         Sevareid was most relieved to be back in US and noted his GI driver ln Alaska who muttered, while waiting for RN' s car to leave, "Come on, Dickie, let's go." Can't imagine that in China -- anyone who so remarked would be off to a May 7 camp. That incident, said Eric, was when the whole freshness of America returned.
         Cronkite said there's unlikely to be much more in exchange progress til US is out of Taiwan, then there'll be more detailed exchanges. Terrill said both sides were disappointed -- RN wanted more contact and PRC wanted more on Taiwan. Each has trump card now -- US with timing of withdrawal from Taiwan; PRC with knowledge of domestic pressures on RN for more contact. VN is also involved.
         Sevareid said we won't pull back from this new relationship but Peking could turn it off and on as it wishes. Eric also said visit was not really start of new relationship but the symbolic demonstration of what really started in our pullbacks from VN -- the Guam Doctrine. That convinced them to talk with us -- they need an anchor in the West. Cronkite noted the volatile, aging PRC leadership raises obvious questions about the duration of the agreements.
         "Time Will Tell," concluded Collingwood in this 54 minute special which closed out with brief replay of RN/PN arrival to "Hail."

    * *

         Chancellor closed out NBC's 45:00 special noting RN/PN taking the "salute of the crowd" as Amer. the Beautiful played. RN quoted Mao -- as he did several times on trip -- on seize the hour and "RN seized the hour" on this trip, said Jolin.
         Newman noted RN's cognizance of analysis on Taiwan, saying RN took "pains" to say it was "established policy" to gradually withdraw forces from overseas, so the promise on Taiwan was not unusual. Will hear more on that, Newman suspects, but it was a "very big welcome" -- RN was greeted as a "man who made a triumphant" tour.
         Newman noted the "thousands" awaiting RN; Chancellor estimated it at 4 - 5,000 -- maybe more -- and "1 of the more impressive" welcomes ever for a Presidential return. Chancellor noted also enthusiasm of crowd -- that it was better than any at RN's arrivals or departures in China. Those were "muted." Chancellor called the trip "one of the most -- maybe the most -- exciting trip" by a US Pres. The trip "was worth it," said Chancellor, and he concurs with Mansfield that the bridge is open. Chancellor also felt that attitude among PRC officials. Newman noted p. 1 People's Daily printing of full text of communique and Chancellor said not only had US given "unprecedented" coverage to the trip, but so had the PRC. Both sides played the story "very, very heavily" and the Chinese people also got the equivalent of many, many hours of TV prime time. Good audio of the crowd as S '76 arrived, and an excited Chancellor said "that's the plane that crossed the bridge -- took RN to China."
         Chancellor noted RN looked "quite cheerful and elated, as he should be on a reception like this." Chancellor noted "bipartisan" sendoff and again here at welcome. Chancellor pointed out dignitaries.
         Footage of a jubilant RN and PN and crowd was great to NBC monitor here. Limited Newman and Chancellor comments let excitement in the hanger be communicated to viewer.

    RN Arrives Andrews
         ABC had Smith as Anchor with Reasoner and Jarriel at Andrews. Reasoner said RN returning from the "most dramatic trip in his administration -- perhaps even in 4 or 5 administration" -- the "most dramatic since FDR went to Yalta." Jarriel agreed with that and with Reasoner analysis that this was truly "a working summit" compared to some of purely goodwill and ceremony.
         While camera panned "some 2,000 persons," Smith said from conversations he's had on the Hill, there is "an overwhelming feeling" the trip was a good thing.
         Chat between Reasoner and Jarriel followed, e.g. crowds here not assembled as in PRC; crowd, tho partisan and made up of ticketed gov't officials, genuinely enthusiastic. Reasoner said crowd one of largest we've seen assembled in long time. As Veep and Mrs. Agnew entered followed by  ulie/Tricia/Ed, Jarriel commented this "looks more like Academy Awards night," than reception for Pres.
         Smith identified faces of dignitaries as camera continued pan. Smith noted (in gentle voice -- sincere) that this is a great "antidote" to last time such a large crowd gathered at Andrews -- for return of body of JFK.
         Crescendo of cheers, as RN/PN deplaned. Jarriel called it "most enthusiastic reception I've ever witnessed," at least in last 3 years.
         RN deplaned to resounding cheer; camera caught PN direct in warm smile. Jarriel quickly noted PN wearing same coat as in PRC; then Jarriel noted Rogers, as usual, immediately behind RN and then came HAK -- "except" during the talks in PRC. Smith noted he thought more Dems at departure than Republicans -- now more of GOP evident.
         After anthem, RN's "they play it well" audible -- Reasoner immediately added "so do the Chinese." Reasoner said tho RN expected to give briefer speech, he gave "quite an explanation" of the trip. Reasoner noted strong welcome by "highly partisan" crowd -- a "moment of triumph" for RN.
         Smith ended surprisingly with: before RN left, I predicted you would see more of China than you wanted to. Now, I predict you're going to hear more analyses than you'll want. Well, I'm not going to start tonite. (Thank you, Howard.)

    * * * *

         D. C.'s Channel 5 led 10 p.m. news with 5:00 on RN arrival at Andrews, noting "red carpet welcome." Noted both positive/negative on communique, citing Taiwan as stickiest aspect. Then replay from Andrews. Noted RN's "no secret deals were made" and hope that "our children will have better chance to grow up in a peaceful world." Then replay of RN speech from "can't build bridge in one week" to "I came back to America with an even stronger faith in our system of government."
         5:00 then given recap of reactions to communique from domestic politicos, to major capitals of world. On film was Sen. Buckley saying public needs assurances on Taiwan point; then Doak Barnett saying terms in communique "deliberately vague," but no sell-out of any kind; certain US will keep its commitment, though significant that PRC didn't demand US troop withdrawal date from Taiwan or end of treaty. All in all, "quite a reasonable" compromise, said Barnett.

    * *

         NET Special led with 20 minutes from Andrews with Vanocur noting warm reception and that the Nixon's looked well-rested in contrast to last day or two in China when RN was up til dawn. Then came discussion by Lisagor/Frankel/White which will, unfortunately, not be in Summary til Wednesday.

    * * * *

    # # # # #

  • The H. R. Haldeman Diaries consists of seven handwritten diaries, 36 dictated diaries recorded as sound recordings, and two handwritten audio cassette tape subject logs. The diaries and logs reflect H. R. Haldeman’s candid personal record and reflections on events, issues, and people encountered during his service in the Nixon White House. As administrative assistant to the President and Chief of Staff, Haldeman attended and participated in public events and private meetings covering the entire scope of issues in which the Nixon White House engaged in during the years 1969-1973. Visit the finding aid to learn more.

    • Transcript of diary entry (PDF)
      February 28.

      President had me over early this morning before departure since he didn't sleep much during the night. He said he had gotten up at 5:00 and gone down and sat in the living room for a couple hours, then gone back to bed at 7:00, got up at 8:00, that's when he had me over at about 8:15, 8:30. He reviewed again the need for following up with the Conservatives. He's very concerned, because on the flight from Shanghai to Anchorage, we got the newspaper report of the Post's coverage, which was pretty negative and made a big point of the sell-out of Taiwan, which had him concerned. As we got later reports and ones that came in this morning, it became clear that the general press was not playing it that way, and that we were really in very good shape, but it was hard to convince him of that at that point, and he was afraid we were dealing with a bad story and we'll have to move hard and fast on it to avoid getting really clobbered.

      On the plane to Washington, he had Henry up for quite a long time, emphasizing the point that he's got to cover the right-wing that he shouldn't have Sidey in the briefing because he's not worth having and is beyond the pale. That we've got to work on the news summary people to make sure they cover positive stuff, so we don't get the staff depressed, and that kind of thing.

      Later summaries came in, it became more and more clear that we're in very good shape on the news, and now the problem is to convince the President of that so he doesn't overreact to the early negative stuff from the Post. The arrival in Washington was extremely good, and the President did a great job on his arrival remarks, even though there's quite a hassle getting them done on the plane and Rose went through a super temper tantrum.

      We also discovered that Buchanan was very negative on the whole thing. Henry spent some time trying to give him some background so he could swing his position around, but it didn't apparently do any good, since Pat stayed negative and Rose joined with him. Then she was furious because Henry was spending so much time with the President and getting in the way of her getting the arrival remarks typed up.

      So that's the end of February 28, and the end of the China trip.
    • Original audio recording (MP3)

  • The National Archives Catalog is the online portal to the records held at the National Archives, and information about those records. It is the main way of describing our holdings and also provides access to electronic records and digitized versions of our holdings. 

    The Catalog searches across multiple National Archives resources at once, including archival descriptions, digitized and electronic records, authority records, and web pages from Archives.gov and the Presidential Libraries. The Catalog also allows users to contribute to digitized historical records through tagging and transcription.

    Nixon Library Holdings

    All National Archives Units

National Security Documents

  • The President's Daily Brief is the primary vehicle for summarizing the day-to-day sensitive intelligence and analysis, as well as late-breaking reports, for the White House on current and future national security issues. Read "The President's Daily Brief: Delivering Intelligence to Nixon and Ford" to learn more.

  • The Foreign Relations of the United States series presents the official documentary historical record of major U.S. foreign policy decisions and significant diplomatic activity. Visit the State Department website for more information.

    Vol. II, Organization and Management of U.S. Foreign Policy, 1969-1972

    The NSC System

    Vol. XVII, China, 1969-1972

    China, October 1971-February 1972

    • 204. Memorandum of Conversation, Shanghai, February 28, 1972, 8:30-9:30 a.m.

      Source: National Archives, Nixon Presidential Materials, White House Special Files, President’s Office Files, Box 87, Memoranda for the President. Top Secret; Sensitive; Exclusively Eyes Only. The meeting was held in the President’s sitting room at Ching Kiang Guest House.

    Vol. XXI, Chile, 1969-1973

    Cool and Correct: The U.S. Response to the Allende Administration, November 5, 1970-December 31, 1972

    Vol. XXIII, Arab-Israeli Dispute, 1969-1972

    Proximity Talks and the Backchannel: Separate Department of State and White House Negotiating Tricks

    Vol. XXIX, Eastern Mediterranean, 1969-1972

    Greece

    Vol. XLI, Western Europe; NATO, 1969-1972

    Italy

    Vol. E-4, Documents on Iran and Iraq, 1969-1972

    Iran 1972

    • 168. Situation Report

      The report indicated that mass rallies against a variety of sources of popular discontent were planned for the following day.

      Source: National Archives, RG 59, NEA/IRN, Office of Iran Affairs, Lot File 75D365, Box 7, POL 23, Internal Security, Counter Insurgence, Iran 1972. Secret. A handwritten notation on the front page reads “Disturbing.”

    Vol. E-7, Documents on South Asia, 1969-1972

    Bangladesh, December 1971-December 1972

    • 405. Telegram 722 From the Consulate General in Dacca to the Department of State, Dacca, February 28, 1972, 1610Z

      Consul General Spivack reported that he met with Bangladesh Foreign Minister Samad and, as instructed, informed him that the question of recognition would have to await President Nixon’s decision after his return from China. Samad remained concerned about the status of the Consulate General and whether its mission was to further U.S. relations with Pakistan or Bangladesh. He also expressed concern about the treatment of representatives of Bangladesh in the United States.

      Source: National Archives, RG 59, Central Files 1970–73, POL BANGLADESH–US. Secret; Immediate; Exdis. Repeated to Islamabad and New Delhi.

    Vol. E-13, Documents on China, 1969-1972

    • 107. Memorandum of Conversation, Shanghai, February 28, 1972, 8:45 a.m., Shanghai, February 28, 1972, 8:45 a.m.

      During their fifth counterpart meeting, Secretary of State Rogers and Chinese Foreign Minister Chi P’eng-fei agreed to gradually strengthen relations in the areas of communications, sports, cultural, and scientific exchanges.

      Source: National Archives, RG 59, Central Files 1970-73, POL 7 US/NIXON. Secret; Nodis; Homer. Drafted by Platt and approved in S on March 10. Copies were sent to S, S/S, U, J, EA, and Kissinger at the White House. The meeting was held in the Guest House Hotel.

  • The Kissinger telephone conversation transcripts consist of approximately 20,000 pages of transcripts of Kissinger’s telephone conversations during his tenure as Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs (1969-1974) and Secretary of State (1973-1974) during the administration of President Richard Nixon. Visit the finding aid for more information.

    Digitized versions can be found in the National Archives Catalog.

Audiovisual Holdings

  • Visit the White House Tapes finding aid to learn about the taping system's operation and archival processing.

    White House Telephone

  • The White House Photo Office collection consists of photographic coverage of President Richard Nixon meeting with prominent social, political, and cultural personalities; speaking engagements and news conferences of the President and various high-ranking members of the White House staff and Cabinet; Presidential domestic and foreign travel, including Presidential vacations; social events and entertainment involving the First Family, including entertainers present; official portraits of the President, First Family, and high-ranking members of the Nixon administration; the 1969 and 1973 Inaugurals; the President’s 1972 Presidential election campaign appearances (including speeches) and other official activities of the White House staff and the President’s Cabinet from January 20, 1969 until August 9, 1974 at the White House and the Old Executive Office Building; other locations in Washington, DC, such as The Mall; and the Presidential retreats in Camp David, Maryland, Key Biscayne, Florida, and San Clemente, California. Visit the finding aid to learn more.

    Roll WHPO-8623 Photographer: Schumaker, Byron | Color or B&W: Color

    • Frame(s): WHPO-8623-03-07, White House Communication Technicians (men) working in an audio control room. 2/28/1972, China unknown. unidentified persons.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8623-08-10, Stewardesses seated in a room. 2/28/1972, China unknown. unidentified persons.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8623-11-13, Unknown room with equipment. 2/28/1972, China unknown.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8623-14-16, Unidentified persons walking and riding down rural street. 2/28/1972, Shanghai, China street. Chinese citizens.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8623-18-21, Aerial view of a city, possibly Shanghai. 2/28/1972, Shanghai, China air. Chinese citizens.

    Roll WHPO-8624 Photographer: Schumaker, Byron | Color or B&W: Color

    • Frame(s): WHPO-8624-01-23, Portrait of unidentified men and women. 2/28/1972, Shanghai, China unknown. unidentified men and women.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8624-24-28, Sign with Chinese writing as well as, "LONG LIVE THE GREAT UNITY OF THE PEOPLE OF THE WORLD.". 2/28/1972, Shanghai, China unknown site. unidentified men and women.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8624-29-31, Unidentified flight attendants or stewardesses with others on plane stairs. 2/28/1972, Shanghai, China airport, tarmac. unidentified men and women.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8624-32-34, Unidentified flight attendants and stewardesses with others on tarmac. 2/28/1972, Shanghai, China airport, tarmac. unidentified men and women.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8624-35-36, Large satellite and unknown stucture. 2/28/1972, Shanghai, China unknown. unidentified men and women.

    Roll WHPO-8626 Photographer: Schumaker, Byron | Color or B&W: Color

    • Frame(s): WHPO-8626-02A-04A, Exterior view of "The Spirit of '76," (Air Force One). 2/28/1972, Shanghai, China tarmac, Hung Chiao Airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Chou En-Lai, William Rogers, Chinese officials, press corps members.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8626-05A-09A, 27A-36A, Crowd on the tarmac. 2/28/1972, Shanghai, China tarmac, Hung Chiao Airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Chou En-Lai, William Rogers, Chinese officials, press corps members.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8626-10A-23A, President Nixon and Pat Nixon bidding farewell to Premier Chou and members of the official PRC delegation. 2/28/1972, Shanghai, China tarmac, Hung Chiao Airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Chou En-Lai, William Rogers, Chinese officials, press corps members.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8626-10A-23A, President Nixon and Pat Nixon waving before entering the "Spirit of '76". 2/28/1972, Shanghai, China tarmac, Hung Chiao Airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Chou En-Lai, William Rogers, Chinese officials, press corps members.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8626-20A, President Nixon shaking hands with Chou En-Lai before his departure from China. Pat Nixon and members of the press stand nearby. 2/28/1972, Shanghai, China tarmac, Hung Chiao Airport. President Nixon, Chou-En Lai, Pat Nixon, Chinese officials, press corps members.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8626-29A, Press corps on the tarmac of Hung Chiao Airport in Shanghai, China after the departure of the American delegation led by President Richard Nixon. 2/28/1972, Shanghai, China tarmac, Hung Chiao Airport. President Nixon, Chou-En Lai, Pat Nixon, Chinese officials, press corps members.

    Roll WHPO-8627 Photographer: Schumaker, Byron | Color or B&W: B&W

    • Frame(s): WHPO-8627-02-20, Unidentified persons sleeping, talking, and reading. 2/28/1972, air Spirit of '76, interior. unidentified persons.

    Roll WHPO-8636 Photographer: Atkins, Oliver | Color or B&W: Color

    • Frame(s): WHPO-8636-01A-09A, Small business buildings and home, pedestrians and bicyclists on an unidentified two lane street. 2/28/1972, Shanghai, China streets. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Kissinger, Chinese officials, Chinese citizens, press corps members.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8636-10A-12A, unidentified Presidential Staff or news reporters and Chinese soldiers standing near the front doorway stairs of Air Force One Spirit of 76. 2/28/1972, Shanghai, China streets, tarmac, Hung Chiao Airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Kissinger, Chinese officials, Chinese citizens, press corps members.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8636-13A-18A, A crowd near President Nixon's limousine on the tarmac, view looking down from the top of the Air Force One Spirit of 76 doorway stairs. 2/28/1972, Shanghai, China tarmac, Hung Chiao Airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Kissinger, Chinese officials, Chinese citizens, press corps members.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8636-19A, Henry Kissinger ascending stairs to the airplane. 2/28/1972, Shanghai, China tarmac, Hung Chiao Airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Kissinger, Chinese officials, Chinese citizens, press corps members.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8636-20A, President Nixon and Pat Nixon ascending stairs to the airplane. 2/28/1972, Shanghai, China tarmac, Hung Chiao Airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Kissinger, Chinese officials, Chinese citizens, press corps members.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8636-21A, President Nixon and Pat Nixon in the doorway of The Spirit of 76 (Air Force One), seen from behind, waving to Chinese officials in the crowd below standing on the Hung Chiao Shanghai Airport (building seen in background). 2/28/1972, Shanghai, China tarmac, Hung Chiao Airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, crowd including press corps members.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8636-22A-23A, President Nixon and Pat Nixon disembark the Spirit of 76 (Air Force One) at Elmendorf Air Force Base, in Alaska during their stopover before flying on to Washington D.C. 2/28/1972, Elmendorf AFB, Alaska tarmac, airfield. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, unidentified persons.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8636-24A, Crowd greeting President Nixon in Alaska. 2/28/1972, Elmendorf AFB, Alaska tarmac, airfield. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, unidentified persons.

    Roll WHPO-8637 Photographer: Atkins, Oliver | Color or B&W: Color

    • Frame(s): WHPO-8637-01A-03A, President Nixon and Pat Nixon arriving at the airport. 2/28/1972, Shanghai, China tarmac, Hung Chiao Airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Chou En-Lai, crowd.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8637-04A-13A, President Nixon and Chou En-Lai shaking hands amid a crowd. 2/28/1972, Shanghai, China tarmac, Hung Chiao Airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Chou En-Lai, crowd.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8637-15A-16A, President Nixon with unidentified couples. 2/28/1972, Elmendorf AFB, Alaska room, Ruegg residence. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, unidentified couples, crowd.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8637-17A-18A, President Nixon and Pat Nixon addressing a crowd at the airport. 2/28/1972, Elmendorf AFB, Alaska airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, unidentified couples, crowd.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8637-19A, Crowd welcoming President Nixon back to the United States. 2/28/1972, Elmendorf AFB, Alaska airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, unidentified couples, crowd.

    Roll WHPO-8638 Photographer: Schumacher, Karl | Color or B&W: Color

    • Frame(s): WHPO-8638-03-13, President Nixon and Pat Nixon, wave from the top of the stair ramp of The Spirit of 76 (Air Force One), upon their arrival from China at Andrews Air Force Base, in Maryland. A crowd of well wishers and friends wave to them from the tarmac below. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland tarmac, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Spiro Agnew, officials, crowd.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8638-12, President Nixon and Pat Nixon, wave from the top of the stair ramp of The Spirit of 76 (Air Force One), upon their arrival from China at Andrews Air Force Base, in Maryland. A crowd of well wishers and friends wave to them from the tarmac below. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland tarmac, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, crowd, officials.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8638-14-19, A crowd of well wishers and friends in front of The Spirit of 76 (Air Force One), upon President Nixon and Pat Nixon's arrival from China at Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland tarmac, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Spiro Agnew, officials, crowd.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8638-20-27, 30-31, President Nixon addressing crowd from podium in front of helicopter, with Pat Nixon and Vice President Agnew standing nearby. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland hangar, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Spiro Agnew, officials, crowd.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8638-28-29, 36, Crowd of well wishers and friends in front of the helicopter upon President Nixon and Pat Nixon's arrival from China at Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland hangar, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Spiro Agnew, officials, crowd.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8638-32-35, President Nixon, Pat Nixon, and Vice President Agnew entering the helicopter. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland hangar, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Aspiro Agnew, officials, crowd.

    Roll WHPO-8639 Photographer: Schumacher, Karl | Color or B&W: Color

    • Frame(s): WHPO-8639-01-05, President Nixon and Pat Nixon leaving their Air Force One. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland tarmac, hangar, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Spiro Agnew, officials, crowd.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8639-07-23, President Nixon, Pat Nixon, and Vice President Agnew standing at a podium in front of crowd. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland tarmac, hangar, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Spiro Agnew, officials, crowd.

    Roll WHPO-8640 Photographer: Kightlinger, Jack | Color or B&W: Color

    • Frame(s): WHPO-8640-02-11, President Nixon and Pat Nixon greeting family and others upon arrival. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland hangar, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Agnew, Tricia Nixon Cox, Edward Cox, Julie Eisenhower, William Rogers, Kissinger, officials, crowd.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8640-12-20, Vice President Agnew, President Nixon, and Pat Nixon standing at a podium with hands on hearts. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland hangar, airport. President Nixon.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8640-21, "Spirit of '76" with a photographer taking a shot from the open door. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland hangar, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Spiro Agnew, Tricia Nixon Cox, Edward Cox, Julie Eisenhower, William Rogers, Kissinger, officials, crowd.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8640-22, 26, 29-32, Vice President Agnew, President Nixon, and Pat Nixon standing at a podium. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland hangar, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Spiro Agnew, Tricia Nixon Cox, Edward Cox, Julie Eisenhower, William Rogers, Kissinger, officials, crowd.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8640-23-25, 28, Members of a crowd greeting President Nixon. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland hangar, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Spiro Agnew, Tricia Nixon Cox, Edward Cox, Julie Eisenhower, William Rogers, Kissinger, officials, crowd.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8640-33, President Nixon and Pat Nixon walking. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland hangar, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Spiro Agnew, Tricia Nixon Cox, Edward Cox, Julie Eisenhower, William Rogers, Kissinger, officials, crowd.

    Roll WHPO-8641 Photographer: Kightlinger, Jack | Color or B&W: Color

    • Frame(s): WHPO-8641-01A-19A, President Nixon, Pat Nixon, and Vice President Agnew at a podium. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland hangar, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Spiro Agnew, crowd.

    Roll WHPO-8642 Photographer: Kightlinger, Jack | Color or B&W: Color

    • Frame(s): WHPO-8642-34-37, Crowd awaiting the arrival of President Nixon and Pat Nixon. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland hangar, airport. crowd.

    Roll WHPO-8643 Photographer: Schumacher, Karl | Color or B&W: Color

    • Frame(s): WHPO-8643-02-12, President Nixon, Pat Nixon and others deplaning. The Nixons and Vice President Agnew at a podium. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland tarmac, hangar, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Spiro Agnew, officials, crowd.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8643-13-24, President Nixon and Pat Nixon greeting crowd. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland tarmac, hangar, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Spiro Agnew, officials, presidential party, crowd.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8643-25-26, Unidentified persons in the door of the "Spirit of '76". 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland tarmac, hangar, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Spiro Agnew, officials, presidential party, crowd.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8643-27-29, President Nixon, Pat Nixon and Vice President Agnew at a podium, facing away from the camera. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland tarmac, hangar, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Spiro Agnew, officials, presidential party, crowd.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8643-30-36, President Nixon, Pat Nixon and Vice President Agnew at a podium, facing perpendicular to the camera. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland tarmac, hangar, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Spiro Agnew, officials, presidential party, crowd.

    Roll WHPO-8644 Photographer: Atkins, Oliver | Color or B&W: B&W

    • Frame(s): WHPO-8644-06-12, President Nixon, Pat Nixon, and Vice President Agnew on a podium. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland hangar, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Spiro Agnew, crowd.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8644-09, President Nixon, Pat Nixon, and Vice President Agnew on a podium addressing a crowd at Andrews Air Force Base after arriving home from their trip to China. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland hangar, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Spiro Agnew, crowd.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8644-2-5, Wing and window of the "Spirit of '76.". 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland tarmac.

    Roll WHPO-8645 Photographer: Atkins, Oliver | Color or B&W: B&W

    • Frame(s): WHPO-8645-02-14, President Nixon, Pat Nixon, and Vice President Agnew on a podium. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland hangar, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Spiro Agnew, crowd.

    Roll WHPO-8646 Photographer: Knudsen, Robert L. | Color or B&W: Color

    • Frame(s): WHPO-8646-02, Tricia Cox, Ed Cox, and Julie Eisenhower standing on the tarmac waiting for the arrival of President Nixon and Pat Nixon from China at Andrews Air Force Base. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland tarmac, hangar, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Spiro Agnew, Tricia Nixon Cox, Edward Cox, Julie Eisenhower, officials, military personnel, Mike Mansfield, William Westmoreland.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8646-03-08, President Nixon and Pat Nixon, wave from the stair ramp of The Spirit of 76 (Air Force One), upon their arrival from China at Andrews Air Force Base. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland tarmac, hangar, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Spiro Agnew, Tricia Nixon Cox, Edward Cox, Julie Eisenhower, officials, military personnel, Mike Mansfield, William Westmoreland.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8646-05, President Nixon and Pat Nixon wave from the stair ramp of The Spirit of 76 (Air Force One) (AF1) , upon their arrival from China at Andrews Air Force Base. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland tarmac, hangar, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8646-09-18, 21-24, President Nixon and Pat Nixon greeting friends, family and supporters in the crowd. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland tarmac, hangar, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Spiro Agnew, Tricia Nixon Cox, Edward Cox, Julie Eisenhower, officials, military personnel, Mike Mansfield, William Westmoreland.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8646-19-20, Tricia Cox and Ed Cox looking at each other. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland tarmac, hangar, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Spiro Agnew, Tricia Nixon Cox, Edward Cox, Julie Eisenhower, officials, military personnel, Mike Mansfield, William Westmoreland.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8646-19-20, Tricia Cox and Ed Cox looking at each other. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland tarmac, hangar, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Spiro Agnew, Tricia Nixon Cox, Edward Cox, Julie Eisenhower, officials, military personnel, Mike Mansfield, William Westmoreland.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8646-25-26, 29-25, President Nixon, Pat Nixon and Vice President Agnew standing at a podium. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland tarmac, hangar, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Spiro Agnew, Tricia Nixon Cox, Edward Cox, Julie Eisenhower, officials, military personnel, Mike Mansfield, William Westmoreland.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8646-27-28, President Nixon, Pat Nixon and Vice President Agnew standing near podium with hands over hearts. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland tarmac, hangar, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Spiro Agnew, Tricia Nixon Cox, Edward Cox, Julie Eisenhower, officials, military personnel, Mike Mansfield, William Westmoreland.

    Roll WHPO-8647 Photographer: Knudsen, Robert L. | Color or B&W: Color

    • Frame(s): WHPO-8647-03, Tricia Nixon Cox, Edward Cox, Julie Eisenhower and others waiting to greet President Nixon, during the official welcome home from China celebration. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland hangar, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Spiro Agnew, Tricia Nixon Cox, Edward Cox, Julie Eisenhower, crowd.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8647-04-07, President Nixon, Pat Nixon and Vice President Agnew near podium with hands over hearts, during the official welcome home from China celebration. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland hangar, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Spiro Agnew, Tricia Nixon Cox, Edward Cox, Julie Eisenhower, crowd.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8647-08-36, President Nixon and Pat Nixon, with Vice President Agnew during the arrival from China ceremony at Andrews Air Force Base, in Maryland. Judy Agnew and Nixon family members stand nearby while President Nixon speaks at the microphone. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland hangar, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Spiro Agnew, Tricia Nixon Cox, Edward Cox, Julie Eisenhower, crowd.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8647-15, President Nixon and Pat Nixon, with Vice President Agnew during the arrival from China ceremony at Andrews Air Force Base, in Maryland. Judy Agnew and Nixon family members stand nearby while President Nixon speaks at the microphone. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland hangar, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Spiro Agnew, Tricia Nixon Cox, Edward Cox, Julie Eisenhower, William Rogers, Henry Kissinger, crowd, officials.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8647-37, President Nixon, Pat Nixon and Vice President Agnew walking away, during the official welcome home from China celebration. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland hangar, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Spiro Agnew, Tricia Nixon Cox, Edward Cox, Julie Eisenhower, crowd.

    Roll WHPO-8648 Photographer: Knudsen, Robert L. | Color or B&W: Color

    • Frame(s): WHPO-8648-02A-07A, President Nixon, Pat Nixon and Vice President Agnew at podium. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland hangar, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Agnew, Tricia Nixon Cox, Edward Cox, Julie Eisenhower, crowd.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-8648-10A-16A, President Nixon and Pat Nixon boarding a helicopter. 2/28/1972, Andrews AFB, Maryland hangar, airport. President Nixon, Pat Nixon, Spiro Agnew, Tricia Nixon Cox, Edward Cox, Julie Eisenhower, crowd.

  • The White House Communications Agency Sound Recordings Collection contains public statements that took place between 1969 and 1974. Visit the finding aid to learn more.

    K - Informal Presidential Remarks

    • WHCA-SR-K-260
      Departure/Shanghai Airport-Shanghai, China. (2/28/1972)

      Keywords: People's Republic of China, Trips

      Original Format: 1/4-inch reel-to-reel audiotape. Original source type: Original.

    P - Formal Presidential Remarks

    • WHCA-SR-P-720219
      Remarks by President Nixon on departure from Elmendorf AFB, Anchorage, Alaska. (2/28/1972)

      Runtime: 3:32

      Keywords: People's Republic of China, Trips

      Original Format: 1/4-inch reel-to-reel audiotape. Original source type: Original.
    • WHCA-SR-P-720220
      Remarks by President Nixon on return from the People's Republic of China at Andrews AFB, with Vice President Agnew. (2/28/1972, Andrew's Air Force Base, Airforce 1 Hanger, Maryland)

      Runtime: 10:10

      Keywords: People's Republic of China, Trips

      Production credits: Audio feed supplied by CBS; Recorded by CAL (initials of WHCA engineer)

      Original Format: 1/4-inch reel-to-reel audiotape. Original source type: Original.

  • The White House Communications Agency Videotape Collection contains “off-the-air” recordings of televised programs produced between 1968 and 1974. Visit the finding aid to learn more.

    • WHCA-5142
      "Arrival at AAFB from China Trip". People's Republic of China
      NBC
      Runtime: 00:48:30
    • WHCA-5143
      "Arrival at AAFB, The Nixon's return from China Trip". People's Republic of China
      NBC
      Runtime: 00:52:01
    • WHCA-5144
      "Arrival at AAFB, The Nixon's return from China Trip;" hockey game excerpt. People's Republic of China
      NPACT
      Runtime: 01:04:41
    • WHCA-5145
      "The Longest Journey: The Return".
      NBC
      Runtime: 01:00:00
    • WHCA-5149
      "China News Summary", Tape IV.
      ALL NETWORKS
      Runtime: 1:00

      1. Smith/Giggans: President Nixon returning home; Taiwan reaction. Time Code Start: 00:00. Keywords: Presidents, travel, trips, Nixon trips, international, Taiwanese, public opinions. Network: ABC.

      2. Smith/Clark: Congress reacts to China trip; McGovern, Humphrey, Ashbrook. Time Code Start: 02:15. Keywords: President Nixon, travel, trips, People's Republic of China, public opinions. Network: ABC.

      3. Smith/Wordham: California reacts to China trip. Time Code Start: 04:33. Keywords: President Nixon, travel, trips, People's Republic of China, public opinions. Network: ABC.

      4. Reasoner: Report from China. Time Code Start: 06:27. Keywords: People's Republic of China. Network: ABC.

      5. Smith: Commentary on China trip. Time Code Start: 07:43. Keywords: President Nixon, travel, trips, People's Republic of China, public opinions. Network: ABC.

      6. Utley/Brady/Perkins: President Nixon to return from China; overseas reaction to the trip. Time Code Start: 09:45. Keywords: Presidents, travel, trips, Nixon trips, international, People's Republic of China, public opinions. Network: NBC.

      7. Valeriani: Domestic reaction to China trip. Time Code Start: 13:03. Keywords: President Nixon, travel, trips, Nixon trips, People's Republic of China, public opinions. Network: NBC.

      8. Mudd/Cronkite: President Nixon in Anchorage, Alaska. Time Code Start: 15:04. Keywords: Presidents, travel, trips, Nixon trips, domesic. Network: CBS.

      9. Mudd/Webster: Taiwan reaction to China trip. Time Code Start: 16:08. Keywords: President Nixon, travel, trips, People's Republic of China, Asian, Taiwanese, public opinions. Network: CBS.

      10. Mudd: Domestic reaction to China trip. Time Code Start: 20:02. Keywords: President Nixon, travel, trips, Nixon trips, People's Republic of China, public opinions. Network: CBS.

      11. Cronkite: Final report from China. Time Code Start: 20:41. Keywords: People's Republic of China. Network: CBS.
    • WHCA-5156
      Weekly News Summary, Tape I.
      ALL NETWORKS
      Runtime: 01:29:55

      8. Report of proposals of amendment on busing/ film of rally in Augusta, Georgia/ Governor Fletcher Thompson and Lieutenant Governor Lester Maddox speak out at rally against busing/ interview with Reverend J.S. Wright (SCLC). Time Code Start: 18:21. Keywords: Senate, Senators, religion, officials, voting, bills, laws, legislation, desegregation, racism, racial discrimination, African Americans, schools, students, transportation, reports. Network: ABC.

      9. Howard K. Smith: Film report on Angela Davis trial in California, charged with murder, kidnapping and conspiracy. Time Code Start: 21:43. Keywords: Feminism, Communism, Communist Party, Critical Resistance, Marxism, counterculture, shootings, jail breaks, inmates, terrorism, militants, kidnappings, trials, militants, activists, African Americans, armed resistance, Civil Rights, Black Panthers. Network: ABC.

      10. Film of rally in Augusta, Georgia/ Governor Fletcher Thompson and Lieutenant Governor Lester Maddox speak out at rally against busing/ impact of busing boycott. Time Code Start: 23:50. Keywords: rally, bills, laws, legislation, desegregation, racism, racial discrimination, African Americans, schools, students, transportation, reports. Network: NBC.

Context (External Sources)