868.00/12–347: Telegram
The Chargé in Greece (Keeley) to the Secretary of State, at London
2086. Amag 581. For Secretary from Griswold and Embassy. British Embassy and British military missions anxious that British military missions continue in Greece and work closest collaboration AMAG. (Telmar 4, November 25) British here hesitant to discuss procedures, however, pending receipt requested instruction from London especially in light British policy heretofore against giving operational advice.
All agree no difficulty ensuring continuance closest cooperation top levels, but concern felt at possible friction lower levels. In our thinking and also private British thinking here, ideal solution would be complete integration British and American military missions as combined military mission with Livesay, AMAG, as head and Rawlins, BMMG as deputy. As British policy has heretofore opposed furnishing operational advice to Greeks, British Embassy feels London might for policy reasons not accept this arrangement. However, it is possible that as US has now decided give operational advice British Govt might be willing reverse former policy and participate with US as earnest its solidarity with US in Greek aid objectives.
If combined mission not feasible, we would suggest combined or at least integrated planning staff with operational advice and supply matters thereunder handled by American personnel and with training [Page 434] thereunder handled by British personnel. Under this procedure British although participating in overall planning would not furnish Greeks with operational advice, yet integration of training, operations and logistics would be fully established.
Urge you press British for earliest possible decision so that most effective arrangements in circumstances can be worked out there [here] on the spot promptly and recent US decision re military advice be implemented without further delay.
Sent London as 130; repeated Dept as 2086 and Amag 581 for any comment and with request pass Dept Army.