123 Standley, William H./192
President Roosevelt to the Ambassador to the Soviet Union (Standley)1
My Dear Admiral: It is with real regret that I accept your resignation as Ambassador to the Soviet Union. During your term of office, as well as during your distinguished naval career, you have rendered valuable service to your country and I feel that you have greatly contributed to the cause for which we are fighting and also to the high purpose which led you to accept the position as Ambassador, namely, full and friendly cooperation and understanding between your country and the Soviet Union now and after the war.
[Page 582]I know that you are always ready to serve your country and to make any sacrifice for it. Your willingness to accept the post of Ambassador to the Soviet Union after having so loyally served your country for over half a century is witness to that. However, in view of the personal considerations set forth in your letter of resignation I do not feel that I can place any obstacle in the way of your wishes to retire.
In accepting your resignation, I want you to know how deeply appreciative I am of the faithful and valued services you have rendered your country and on your personal loyalty to me.
With kindest regards,
- Ambassador Standley was in Washington at this time, making his final reports.↩