868.20/10–148: Telegram
The Acting Military Attaché in Greece (Tidmarsh) to the Secretary of State 1
Mid 493. Re Embtel 1969, October 1. Memo submitted by Greek Prime Minister to US Ambassador dated 30 September summarized:
Memo began with US plans to reduce Greek military expenditures by 20 percent as from January, 1949. This plan based on assumption Grammos (Crown2) successful termination would result in liquidation most guerrilla bands by fall 1948. To date no decisive results attained present war because bandits defending very heavily fortified border positions (Grammos, Vitsi, Murgana) and then upon eve of their defeat they withdraw into neighboring countries where GNA cannot follow, thereby making GNA tactical successes nonconclusive and unfruitful.
Memo pointed out US aid has been too late. Bandits have been able to receive aid prior to receipt Greek aid.
Memo stated need for immediate revision tactics to guard GNA against aid to bandits from neighboring countries. GNA unable protect own frontiers and at same time wage war against bandits. Advocates UN mission regarding security Greek frontier. Requests increase Greek forces so as to make possible simultaneous and effective action [Page 157] against main bandit concentrations and same time permit protection of Greek centers of population and communications.
Pointed out present bandit hit and run tactics, forced recruiting, sabotage and terrorism with support of bandit sympathizers make this war different from modern organized warfare; Greek Armed Forces must wage active war as well as offer protection for public and civilian property and lives.
Memo stated that GNA must be increased to 150,000 infantrymen, plus supporting arms. Advocated raise GNA BN strengths to 1,000 men each instead of increasing number of BN’s. Fifteen thousand recruits needed every two months. Training period for recruits must be increased. Recruits will be used to replace all men with over 24 months service.
Memo also advocated maintaining and strengthening gendarmerie and RHN and four squadron increase in RHAF. Appendices from these services attached to memo setting forth proposed increases.
Memo stated money being received from US not now sufficient. Greece cannot support her armed forces. Requested aid, outside of Marshall Plan, to cover all expenses to bring present war to successful conclusion, including military expenses and relief of bandit stricken population. Stated that Marshall Plan funds should not be used to carry on war but to rehabilitate Greece as in other countries receiving ECA aid.
Pointed out Greece only country where Communism carrying out armed opposition against American efforts for rehabilitation of Europe.
Prime Minister stated that without approval of plan outlined above and forthcoming immediate aid “the Greek Government shall no more be in a position to bear the very great responsibilities it is now shouldering.”
Complete report with text memo and appendices following soonest.