May 13, 1963 - President Kennedy (pictured after last night’s televised statement) said today that any further disposition of Federal force in Birmingham’s racial disturbances depended on whether Governor George Wallace and local officials could maintain the peace. In a telegram sent at 2:45 p.m. to the Governor, Mr. Kennedy said: “I trust that we can count on your constructive cooperation. I would be derelict in my duty if I did not take the preliminary steps announced last night that will enable this Government, if required, to meet its obligations without delay.” Governor Wallace had questioned the constitutionality and wisdom of Mr. Kennedy’s action last night in sending Federal troop units to stations near Birmingham. The President acted after racial violence had disrupted the uneasy peace of Birmingham Saturday night and Sunday morning. In Montgomery today, Governor Wallace said that he was considering legal action to keep U.S. troops out of Birmingham. He conferred with legal advisers on means of blocking Federal intervention. Administration sources said any action by the troops would come only if considered absolutely necessary. “Everyone here hopes those troops will never have to set foot in Birmingham,” one official said.
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