891.51A/876: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Minister in Egypt (Kirk)
1649. The Department can do little to speed adviser personnel for Iran without change in Iranian constitution requiring special law for employment of each officer by name after his selection. Qualified men [Page 552] will not agree to quit responsible positions, make arrangements for their families, et cetera, and then wait indefinitely for Iranian Government to act.
Dr. McDonnell was nominated in telegram to Tehran of September 12 for position of pharmaceutical executive already authorized by Iranian law. No confirmation has been received and he now has withdrawn acceptance. We have informed Tehran that Shields and his two chief assistants are ready to depart as soon as latter are confirmed.
Department controls air priorities among various civilians but naturally not in relation to armed forces and Army employees. We understand that in establishing priorities among various groups the Army often follows recommendations of Theater Commanders. We completely agree as to urgency of personnel for Millspaugh mission and it will be most useful if you can persuade Theater Commander to telegraph War Department asking for high priority for them. If this is done please telegraph date and number of his telegram for reference on applications.
Above is for Landis in reply to your 1913, October 25, 11 p.m. Please repeat to Tehran.