J.C.S. Files

The Combined Chiefs of Staff to President Roosevelt and Prime Minister Churchill

secret

Memorandum for the President and Prime Minister

Subject: Gas Warfare

Messages from General Eisenhower1 have indicated that the Italians have reason to believe that the Germans may resort to gas warfare against Italy in the event that she withdraws from the Axis.

The Combined Chiefs of Staff consider therefore that a special warning should be given to Germany as to the retaliatory measures that she may expect. It is clear that for security reasons such a warning should not be given until the results of the present negotiations with Italy have been announced.

The Combined Chiefs of Staff recommend therefore that if you agree arrangements should be set in hand for the necessary warning to be issued by our two governments.

We feel that General Eisenhower should be informed of your decision.

For the Combined Chiefs of Staff:
J. G. Dill

Field Marshal
William D. Leahy

Admiral, U.S. Navy
Chief of Staff to the Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy
  1. Ante, p. 1075. Cf. ante, pp. 555, 593.