Department of the Navy
      Office of the Judge Advocate General
              200 Stovall Street
        Alexandria, VA  22332-2400

In reply refer to:

5800
107
September 1, 1989

The Honorable Alan Cranston
United States Senate
Washington, DC  20510

Dear Senator Cranston:

This responds to your letter concerning a request for a Congressional
investigation into the circumstances of the attack on USS LIBERTY.

A Navy Court of Inquiry investigated the facts and circumstances
surrounding the attack in 1967.  As a result of the incident, the
Department of State insisted that Israel take responsibility.  The
Government of Israel accepted that responsibility and paid United States
Government claims for the deaths an injuries of US personnel and for
physical damages to the vessel.

The Navy Court of Inquiry's investigation focused on the U.S. military
communication problems prior to the attack and the heroic efforts of
LIBERTY's crew in controlling damage during the aftermath.  Sensitive
international issues were best left for diplomatic and political
consideration.  Should your office wish to review the investigation, we
will of course provide you a copy upon request.

My point of contact for this matter is Commander Homer Pointer.  He can
be reached at (202) 697-9161.

Sincerely,

/signed/ J.K. Henriksen Captain, JAGC, U.S. Navy Deputy Assistant Judge
Advocate General (International Law)