868.24/12–1046: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Greece (MacVeagh)
1583. In tel of Dec 762 Wackwitz63 informed War that RAF considers very important Greek air force receive eight C–47s to fly supplies to troops fighting armed bands. Wackwitz concurs this view but says RAF cannot provide these planes and asks whether US policy permits supply.
Although as pointed out my letter Nov 8 we prefer as far as practical arms for Greece come from Brit, in view importance this matter and fact planes not combat types Dept has decided make available planes desired. FLC is directing FLC Cairo earmark eight best C–47s on hand there for delivery as soon as request received from Greek Govt. [Page 279] Cost can be covered under credit already extended for surplus purchases. FLC says planes at Cairo are recaptured from RAF and while not new should be good flying condition. If sale made, RAF will be asked fly them Athens according terms Lend-Lease agreement requiring Brit deliver recaptured items at points we designate.
Request Embassy inform RAF and other appropriate Brit officials suggesting that if Greeks desire these planes, Greeks make immediate request either through you or through Dept here.
War is informing Wackwitz that his query being answered by this tel.
- No. MID 353–46, not printed, it stated that the critical situation in Greece and the possibility of all-out revolution in the spring of 1947 made immediate aid to the Greek Armed Forces imperative. It noted also that the British planned to issue sufficient additional equipment to the Greek Army to bring its strength from 98,200 to 115,000 men. (868.24/12–1046)↩
- Col. Donald N. Wackwitz, Military Attaché and Military Air Attaché of the Embassy in Greece.↩