861.00/3848: Telegram
The Chargé in Russia (Poole) to the Acting Secretary of State
[Received February 14, 7:03 a.m.]
858. It is probable that the low morale of the American and Allied troops in north Russia will prove in the end to have had only passing importance; it is always possible, however, that it will develop suddenly into something serious. So far as the American troops are concerned a frank statement from high authority would greatly lessen their discontent and end definitely the possibility of serious developments. Being convinced of this I do not feel that I can move [omit] to renew very earnestly the recommendation that such a statement be made. The military attaché and I believe that a statement framed something like the following skeleton would be adequate:
“You were sent to northern Russia for imperative military reasons growing out of the existence of a state of war with Germany. You kept the northern Russian ports from becoming submarine bases. You put an end to the shipment into central Russia, and thence [Page 616] possibly to Germany for use against our troops in France, of military and other stores lying at Archangel. A considerable part of these stores you saved and are continuing to guard. Furthermore your presence in northern Russia tended to frustrate in some degree German troop concentration on the western front. The conclusion of hostilities with Germany creates a new situation. The end of your task is in sight. You are to be sent back to the United States with the least possible delay. It is not expected that this will be later than (say June 15th or whatever date the military authorities set). The last of the American troops in France will not be home before the following autumn. Expression of praise for good work done under unusually trying conditions and of confidence in readiness as true Americans to carry the task through to a worthy finish.”
This is on the assumption that if the decision of the Peace Conference requires the continued presence of American troops in this region, volunteer or professional units will be sent to replace the men drafted to fight against Germany.
May I also suggest that such a statement might tend allay criticism at home? Repeat[ed] to Paris as number 39.