868.24/6–2349: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Embassy in Greece
941. Eyes only for Amb. Van Fleet1 states he has concluded wld be unwise demobilize National Defense Corps at end calendar 1949 and that Grk forces shld be maintained approx present strength thru whole of fiscal 1950 even if security situation greatly improved. Believes reduction wld damage Grk morale and open way resumption guerrilla activity. Says restudy of mil assistance needs has shown way to economies which wld permit maintenance present strength throughout yr without increase total dol mil aid.
Important we clarify this question before Congressional mil aid hearings since Congressmen likely ask plans for Grk forces after security re-established. As you know orig Grk aid request as presented Bureau Budget based on 50,000 reduction Grk Army beginning late 1949 to be achieved by elimination NDC. If this to be changed we must be prepared testify before Comites on new basis.
Apart from amt mil aid involved we of course interested effect continued maintenance full strength Grk forces on Grk budget and availability ECA counterpart funds for econ reconstruction.
[Page 360]Request your comments urgently together with statement Nuveen’s views if known to you.
- Lieutenant General Van Fleet returned to Washington on June 20 for consultation.↩