WESTERN HEMISPHERE DEFENSE


795B.5/9-1250
   The Secretary of Defense (Johnson) to the Secretary of State

SECRET                            WASHINGTON,, 12 September 1950.
  DEAR MR. SECRETARY: I refer to Deputy Under Secretary Mat-
thews' letter of 9 August 1950,1 transmitting a study by the Depart-
ment of State concerning Latin American participation inthe Korean
operation.
  These proposals have been thoroughly reviewed by the Joint Chiefs
of Staff, who are in general agreement with the Department of State
as to the desirability of Latin American forces joining the unified com-
mand, under the United Nations' aegis, in the war in Korea. They
also concur in the view of that Department that positive United States
assistance ,is essential to any effective military contributions from
Latin America.
  In view of the problems involved, the Joint Chiefs of Staff feel
that lit will be difficult for any existing Latin American army or air
combat units to be effectively trained, properly equipped, and trans-
ported to the Korean theater in time for participation in the military
operations to clear South Korea of the North Koreans. However, in
view of the long-range potential benefit to hemisphere relations, the
Joint Chiefs of Staff feel that extraordinary efforts should be made
by the Department of State without delay to obtain offers and to
facilitate the participation of such units. Certain of the larger Latin
American nations, furthermore, possess naval vessels which, if im-
mediately proffered, could, in all probability, be used in such combat
operations. It is also possible that army, navy, and air units from cer-
tain of the Latin American nations could participate in the United
Nations occupation in Korea after hostilities have ceased.
  In the light of the foregoing considerations, the Joint Chiefs of
Staff recommend that prompt action be taken by the Department of
State to obtain offers of completely organized and, insofar as possible,
fully equipped and self-sustaining army, navy, and air units from the
Latin American nations 'as occupation forces in Korea or for combat
operations if this proves possible. While it -,would be highly desirable
to have army.units of not less than 1,000 total strength, and air units
of not less than squadron strength, the Joint lChiefs of Staff are will-
ing to accept organized units of smaller size which can operate under
the flag of the offering country. The Joint 'Chiefs of Staff recommend
that those Latin American nations which are unable to contribute
organized combat military units be encouraged to proffer organized
service elements, such as surgical teams, ambulance units, engineer
detachments, and port or labor battalions.

  ' Supra.


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