What was a key goal of Operation Rolling Thunder?

Focusing on the goal of Operation Rolling Thunder, the primary objective was indeed to pressure North Vietnam into peace negotiations. This sustained bombing campaign, conducted by the United States from 1965 to 1968, sought to diminish the capability of the North Vietnamese government and its military by targeting critical infrastructure, supply routes, and troop placements. The hope was that this relentless air assault would weaken their resolve and compel them to enter negotiations aimed at a peaceful resolution of the conflict.

The other options do not align with the overarching goal of Operation Rolling Thunder. Training airmen in ground combat was not a direct aim of the bombing campaign, nor was the establishment of a military base; instead, the focus was on air power. Additionally, while some evacuation of American civilians occurred throughout the Vietnam War, it was not a primary focus or goal of this specific operation.