811.24522/10–2347
The Ambassador in Ecuador (Simmons) to the Secretary of State
No. 6188
Sir: I have the honor to refer to my despatch no. 6157 of October 17, 194737 and to previous recent correspondence concerning conditions [Page 686] in the Galápagos Islands, particularly with reference to local criticism of the American armed forces now stationed in those islands.
For the Department’s information, I enclose copies of a telegram addressed to me under date of October 23, 1947 by Lieutenant General Willis D. Crittenberger, the Commanding General of the Caribbean Defense Command, Canal Zone, and of my letter of yesterday in reply to this telegram,38 both referring to certain specific measures which General Crittenberger has now taken in order to correct the Galápagos situation as revealed by a recent investigation which he ordered to be conducted in the Galápagos.
I feel that these measures, which include the imminent replacement, without prejudice, of the present commanding officer, the assignment of a Spanish-speaking officer to assist him in his relations with the Ecuadoran garrison and other improvements mentioned in his telegram, will go far towards correcting the present situation and towards silencing a considerable amount of criticism recently published in the local press concerning the activities of our armed forces now stationed in the Galápagos Islands.
A copy of this despatch is being forwarded to General Crittenberger for his information.
Respectfully yours,