856A.20/88a: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Vice Consul at Paramaribo (Norden)
Washington, November
19, 1941—8 p.m.
- 1.
- The Governments of the United States and of the Netherlands have agreed upon the following text of a statement to be made public [Page 831] simultaneously in Washington and London at 1:45 o’clock, Washington time, afternoon of Monday, November 24:
[Here follows text of statement which is the same as draft quoted in telegram No. 1019, October 25, 5 p.m., to the Ambassador in Brazil, printed on page 827.]
- 2.
- In accordance with the arrangements which have been agreed upon, United States troops numbering about 1,000 officers and men under the command of Colonel Parley D. Parkinson will be dispatched to Surinam in 3 echelons. Weather permitting, the first echelon consisting of Colonel Parkinson and some staff officers will arrive at Zandery Air Field, Paramaribo, by air not earlier than 1:45 o’clock, Washington time, afternoon of November 25, which is 3:15 p.m., Paramaribo time. Second echelon comprising about 250 officers and men will arrive Paramaribo November 28 by sea and the third consisting of remainder of ground force on November 30, also by sea. Second and third echelons will probably be accompanied by naval escort. Air units will arrive as soon as air field can accommodate them, but no sooner than 1:45 o’clock, Washington time, afternoon of November 25.
- 3.
- War Department is instructing the commanding officer of the United States forces to keep in close touch with you and to consult you with respect to political matters. He has also been authorized to show you the text of his instructions in order that you may be fully informed and in a position to give every possible assistance to the force to the end that its mission may be accomplished successfully. You will keep the Department fully informed of any arrangements that may be discussed between the United States military authorities, the Surinam authorities, and the Brazilian Mission. The Department is not informed at this time as to the date when the Brazilian Mission may be expected in Surinam.
- 4.
- It is understood that the force will be prepared to take care of its own needs, including housing, at least during the initial stages.
- 5.
- You will not communicate the contents of this telegram to the Governor of Surinam nor discuss the matter with him, unless he should raise the subject with you. It is understood that shortly appropriate instructions will be sent to him by the Netherlands Government in London.
Hull