882.20/556a: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Chargé in Liberia (Wharton)
71. For McBride. The War Department in a letter dated March 17 has agreed to turn over its road construction equipment to the Government of Liberia when no longer required by the United States forces in Liberia.
Further statement is made that the Liberian Government should be responsible for organizing and equipping Liberian native troops, although War Department will assist in their organization and training.
With reference to the $800,000 to be made available under the million dollar program, the War Department states that this amount will cover the cost of (a) constructing roads, and (b) organizing, equipping and supporting a native military force for the purpose of assisting in the defense of Liberia.