832.248/434: Telegram
The Ambassador in Brazil (Caffery) to the Secretary of State
[Received 11:30 p.m.]
4413. For the Under Secretary. I received today the following self-explanatory memorandum from Colonel Hall, head of our air mission here:
“(1) On the occasion of your passage through Recife on your return from the United States, Brigadiero Eduardo Gomes made the urgent request that the delivery of the Lockheed bi-motor bomber aircraft (A–29) be accelerated because of the important task of antisubmarine patrol.
Admiral Ingram and General Walsh81 sent strong messages urging the rapid delivery of the airplanes. On my visit to Rio at that time the Air Minister reiterated the great necessity for the airplanes. About 3 weeks ago notice was received that six of the airplanes were ready to leave the States very soon. As yet, not one has been delivered.
(2) This failure not only to heed the request for accelerated delivery, but to comply with the original terms of the delivery schedule, has had deeply-felt results in the Brazilian Air Force as you probably know. It has particularly caused Brigadiero Gomes great distress and anxiety.
He is charged with a huge responsibility in furnishing air patrol for shipping and by no means has the equipment to properly accomplish the job. Me as well as ourselves realizes that the combat [Page 673] fronts are of first importance but it is believed that the airplanes scheduled for delivery could be spared.
(3) Undoubtedly you are completely aware of the situation and the Air Minister has probably discussed it thoroughly. This is written only to add my request that all possible steps be taken to bring about, at the least, fulfillment of the schedule.”
- Gen. Robert L. Walsh was in charge of United States aviation activities in northeastern Brazil.↩