868.20/10–2648: Telegram
The Ambassador in Greece (Grady) to the Secretary of State
2175. When I called on Prime Minister Sophoulis yesterday at his request he expressed anxiety over military situation and said he had finally decided to appoint General Alexander Papagos as Commander-in-Chief of Greek Army. He believed Papagos’ prestige, devotion to King and absence affiliation with any political party would, with full authority in military matters, improve situation. Prime Minister wished consult me however before taking action. I replied that question seemed one for Greeks to decide but that I wished to give matter further thought and communicate with him again today.
Meantime I pointed out political implications of having Commander-in-Chief with very wide powers and unfortunate repercussions in US and elsewhere if it appeared that any sort of dictator were being set up. Prime Minister stated categorically that both Papagos’ character and Prime Minister’s own determination were assurance that constitutional and parliamentary forms would be scrupulously adhered to.
[Page 177]Van Fleet and Down1 both approve appointment while British Ambassador agrees with me that we should not oppose measure. I therefore sent word to Prime Minister today repeating that matter was for Greek decision and we would not object.
Appointment scheduled for consideration tomorrow by Supreme Council National Defense.
- Maj. Gen. Ernest E. Down, Commander of the British Military Mission in Greece.↩