891.20 Mission/10–1944
The Acting Secretary of State to the Secretary of War (Stimson)
My Dear Mr. Secretary: I am enclosing a copy of a note dated October 19, 1944, from the Minister of Iran38 transmitting the request of his Government that the War Department reconsider its decision to terminate on March 1, 1945 the American Military Mission to the Iranian Army, headed by Major General Ridley, and agree to the renewal of the Mission’s contract for an additional year.
The Department endorses the request made by the Iranian Minister. A primary consideration in this Government’s stated policy toward Iran is a desire to strengthen that country so that it may maintain internal security and avoid the dissensions and weaknesses which breed foreign intervention and aggression. A most practical way to implement this policy is to strengthen Iran’s security forces.
The Department is aware that the decision of the War Department to terminate the Ridley Mission on March 1, 1945, was based on the recommendation of General Ridley, who is of the opinion that the projects and objectives of his mission will have been accomplished by that time. While the Department agrees that the limited objectives of the Mission in an advisory capacity to the Quartermaster Corps of the Iranian Army may be largely fulfilled by March 1, 1945, the ultimate objective of building up the Iranian Army to an efficient and self-reliant organization has only been begun. Furthermore, it is feared that the withdrawal of the Mission at this time when the Iranian Army is about to meet its crucial test in view of the imminent withdrawal of foreign armies from the country might have unfortunate political and psychological repercussions.
The Department is bringing these views to the attention of the Ambassador at Tehran in order that he may discuss the question with General Ridley in the light of the overall policy toward Iran. It is hoped that, as a result of this approach, General Ridley may see his way clear toward recommending to the War Department the continuance of his Mission for an additional year.
The War Department’s earnest consideration of the Iranian Minister’s request is recommended. I might add, as a further reason for meeting the Iranian request, that the dignified and efficient manner in which General Ridley and his officers have worked in Iran has not only been of benefit to Iran but also has reflected much credit on the United States.
Sincerely yours,
- No. 1707, not printed; the note was acknowledged by the Department on October 25.↩