811.24580/25: Telegram

The Minister in Egypt (Kirk) to the Secretary of State

540. For the Acting Secretary. I understand that a revision of the organization of the United States Military North African Mission is under consideration in the War Department. You are aware of my insistence in the past on the importance of a unified command and on the danger inherent in divided authority. General Maxwell16 through his superior qualifications and his familiarity with the problems and personalities in this area has established a position of the highest order and furthermore is able to render conspicuous service through harmonious cooperation with the British. I urge that, whatever may be the reorganization contemplated, all our military activities in this area, except of course the duties of Military Attaché, be maintained under one command and that General Maxwell assume that command.

I might add that in a revision which would contemplate United States military operations in this area I should wish to make special recommendations [regarding] Military Attaché to this Legation17 whose marked ability, experience and special knowledge would render him invaluable both in planning and in operation.

Kirk
  1. Gen. Russell L. Maxwell, Chief of United States Military Mission in North Africa, with headquarters at Cairo.
  2. Col. Bonner F. Fellers.