 In the wake of the offensive , however , fresh determination was exhibited by the Thiệu government . On 1 February Thiệu declared a state of martial law and , on 15 June , the National Assembly passed his request for a general mobilization of the population and the induction of 200 @,@ 000 draftees into the armed forces by the end of the year ( a decree that had failed to pass only five months previously due to strong political opposition ) . This increase would bring South Vietnam 's troop strength to more than 900 @,@ 000 men . Military mobilization , anti @-@ corruption campaigns , demonstrations of political unity , and administrative reforms were quickly carried out . Thiệu also established a National Recovery Committee to oversee food distribution , resettlement , and housing construction for the new refugees . Both the government and the Americans were encouraged by a new determination that was exhibited among the ordinary citizens of the Republic . Many urban dwellers were indignant that the communists had launched their attacks during Tet and it drove many who had been previously apathetic into active support of the government . Journalists , political figures , and religious leaders alike — even the militant Buddhists — professed confidence in the government 's plans . 
