832.24/2779
The Chief of the Division of Brazilian Affairs (Walmsley) to the Chief, Liaison Section, Operations Division, War Department General Staff (McCarthy)
My Dear Colonel McCarthy: I have received your memorandum of February 16, 1944 on the subject of the two projected airfield sites in south Brazil and in which you request the views of the State Department on the extent of United States participation in the construction of these airfields.
The offer of assistance in the construction of these airfields was motivated by important and urgent political considerations and at the time it was made there was, of course, no information immediately available concerning the cost except, perhaps, in so far as a very rough estimate might be made on the basis of experience in the construction of similar fields in northern Brazil. Prompt action was essential and time did not permit the preparation of detailed estimates.
The conclusion seems inescapable that the extent of our participation must necessarily be in accordance with the offer made which was to lend the construction equipment, technical advice and supervision necessary to put the fields into serviceable condition. This offer, which has been accepted by the Brazilians, would seem to be a definite commitment on our part that cannot be waived or modified on the ground that the cost is higher than that originally anticipated. Of scarcely less importance is the use that can be made of this concession [Page 554] by Ambassador Caffery in forthcoming negotiations with the Brazilian Government on post-war agreements.
This Department, therefore, expresses the view that assistance should be provided as contemplated and that cost estimates and appropriation of funds should be adjusted to the extent necessary to fulfill our commitment.
Sincerely yours,