Foreign Relations of the United States: Diplomatic Papers, The Conferences at Cairo and Tehran, 1943

J. C. S. Files

Memorandum by the United States Chiefs of Staff

secret
C. C. S. 270/13

[Cairo,] 6 December 1943.

Use of Facilities in the Azores by U. S. Aircraft

1. Although the United States Chiefs of Staff have noted the memorandum from the British Chiefs of Staff (C. C. S. 270/12), dated 3 December 1943,¹ it is considered necessary to defer its consideration until more detailed reports and recommendations are available from such sources as the U. S. Army-Navy Reconnaissance Party in the Azores, the Air Ministry Officers now at Lagens Field, Terceira, the Air Transport Command, A. A. F., and the Transport Command, R.A.F.

2. Whatever decisions may be reached concerning the future extent, nature, and control of U. S. and British anti-submarine and in transit aircraft operations in the Azores, it is apparent that the expansion, completion, and maximum possible use of Lagens Field are matters of urgency. In order to render all possible assistance in the early completion of Lagens Field and to maintain U. S. anti-submarine, ferried, and transport aircraft operations, it is proposed to send appropriate U. S. construction, communications, meteorological and maintenance material and equipment, supplies, and personnel to Terceira on the first possible convoy. The United States Chiefs of Staff have been advised by representatives of the United States in Lisbon that Dr. Antonio Salazar, Premier of the Portuguese Government, has replied favorably to questions regarding this procedure.

1. Not printed herein.