891.20/256: Telegram
The Minister in Iran (Dreyfus) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 11—6:23 a.m.]
1105. I have discussed with General Ridley question of increasing his Mission to 30 officers (Department’s 610, December 1). General stated Iranians had been pressing him on this point for some time but that he was about to inform United States War Department that he did not wish to embarrass it at this time by requesting such a [Page 561] large number of officers. He added, however, that he would soon require five additional quartermaster officers and one engineer. As Department is aware I consider Ridley an efficient officer performing his duties in a workmanlike manner and his recommendations on this subject have therefore my full support.
As regards suggestions of British Minister and Military Attaché, Ridley states he considers his mission is to reform supply and similar services of Iran Army and thus lay a foundation for an efficient organization and not to whip it into shape as a fighting force.