In order to keep Secrets: A Memoir of Vietnam and the Pentagon Papers to a reasonable length, some worthy pieces did not make the final cut. Here are some sections, scenes, and snippets that would have made it into the book if space had not been a consideration.
First Use of B-52s in Vietnam
Ellsberg’s account of “the first time in the war. . . [he] had the sharp, sudden sense the people [he] was working with were mad.”
Mary, 1969
Ellsberg’s description of involving his daughter Mary in copying the Pentagon Papers. (This outtake is included in the paperback edition.)
Boston Federal Building, May 1971
A vignette of Ellsberg’s participation in civil disobedience with Howard Zinn, outside of the Boston Federal Building, May 1971
Speer
Ellsberg reflects on comments he made after his arrest, concerning the responsibility of officials in a criminal war.
Additional Notes
Additional notes and commentary on Secrets, including anecdotes, explanation, analysis, and historical details not included in the book.