868.20/3–2448: Telegram
Governor Dwight P. Griswold to the Secretary of State
Amag 522. I urgently request immediate authority to authorize temporary increase overstrength of GNA for period of six months as soon as availability drachmae funds can be worked out with Greek Government, involving as it must reductions in other Greek expenditures. Anticipated $200 million appropriation would permit permanent increase GNA ceiling by 8,000. We propose instead of such permanent increase a temporary overstrength of 15,000 for period of six months to permit call-up and training of 45,000 younger class recruits in 32-month training groups. Basic training centers for 15,000 presently available and adequate supplies on hand so no immediate dollar commitments in excess existing appropriation involved in case delay availability new appropriation.
This immediate call-up necessary to provide adequate replacements GNA and replacements NDC reservists so far as possible. Entire GNA presently committed with no replacements available. If call-up promptly effected first group new recruits would be trained and available for units before end of June.
[Page 64]NDC composed reservists mostly family men ages 30 to 38. While army morale excellent, NDC morale not so good because of family responsibilities and feeling of resentment that junior classes without family attachments have not been called up. Greek Government anxious for call-up young recruits and in addition to strictly military need for replacement purposes the announcement of new call-up would have substantial morale value with government, with people and with army, especially NDC.
Van Fleet telegraphing urgent request JCS and I urge promptest action by Department.1
Please pass Department Army.
- The Department, on March 26, approved Governor Griswold’s proposal, indicating also the concurrence of the Department of the Army (telegram Gama 482, 868.20/3–2448).↩