962.50/7–2850: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Office of the United States High Commissioner for Germany, at Frankfort
712. Eyes only for McCloy from Byroade. As you are aware there is on record in NSC files decisions taken last year on possible courses of US action in event of a reimposition of blockade on Berlin. One of these conclusions was that there wld be an immed reimposition of an airlift for supply of Berlin. JCS now has under study capabilities of US, primarily in terms of air transport, to carry out this decision in view of commitments on resources elsewhere. While this review is barely underway it is already apparent that it wld be impossible to stage an airlift of the same magnitude used during the prior blockade.
We are aware from your reports that emergency stockpile of food and coal in Berlin is substantial. Nevertheless it seems desirable that you review stockpile situation to determine whether in light above conditions it wld be wise to gradually and without publicity raise stock level of non-perishable items. Wld appreciate your thinking this subj. We will, of course, keep you informed of capability estimates and will undoubtedly request your views on any recommended course of action arising out of present study. [Byroade.]