WAR DEPARTMENT

WAR DEPARTMENT GENERAL STAFF

OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON

1700 July 17, 1942

To: Secretary of War

Chief of Staff

Deputy Chief of Staf

Commanding General IN TORN BY COMMISSIONED

Army Air Forces MESSENGER

Commanding General}^.

Services of Supply

Assistant Chief of Staff

G-2 (Return to OPD)

SECTION I . MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

!• From Eisenhower; (a) Although attrition replacement rate indicated by

OPD is low he accepts it until disproved.
(b) Requests advice on British report that gliders
must be sheltered from weather, and upon interchange­
ability of US and British equipment.
(c) All of 3d Parachute Regt. should complete combat
firing training before shipment from US.
(d) 8 additional medium tank battalions are desired
by April 1 if they can be provided without expense to
present troop basis.
(e) SOS of European Theater is responsible for manning
landing craft of less than 105 ft.(plus initial allot­
ment of 105 ft. craft) until Navy assumes the responsi­
bility.
2­ From G r e e l y : Requests 200 trucks and 5,000,000 percussion caps (and
personal transportation and funds) as initial assis­
tance in reorganizing Iranian Army. Believes that
Russian and British policies are dictated by commercial
aspirations rather than military foresight.

3. From MacArthur: (a) Operations report, July 15. States that Japanese
are contemplating an expedition to Toreal (Kai Is.) by

the end of July.

(b) Operations report for July 16. Bombed Boela,

Ceram Island, and Salamaua.

From Navy: Copy of message to Nlmitz and Ghormley explaining re­

spective Army and Navy responsibilities for supply in

South Pacific Area. This coincides with our own

understanding•

CTOKY

-1 ­
 140 160

|20

120

20

40

60
' ' 1. I

5. From Patch: Is willing to assume Lend-Lease responsibility for

determining and approving civil and military require­

ments for Free French in New Caledonia, and to act as

agent in obtaining and distributing supplies in so far

as they affect the military situation and providing

that this does not involve redistribution to private

enterprises.

SECTION II. OTHER ACTION TAKffN

1* Recommended to AAF that reconnaissances of the Northeast Greenland coast

be made by air from Iceland periodically throughout the summer season in

cooperation with vessels of the Navy patrol.

2. Informed COfcHNCH that instructions are being issued directing the

cessation of radio deception and interference by Army radio stations in

Alaska during the present command status, viz. fleet-opposed invasion.

They may be performed by specific request of the Naval officer exercising

unity of command.

3. Asked DeWitt's comments on plan to send a battalion of 155 mm guns (CAC)

from Western Defense Command to replace, until Sept. 15> a similar

battalion now at Point Lookout, N.C., which must be sent immediately to

Iceland.

4. Notified Eisenhower of additional units to be shipped in August, viz.

1 Inf. Regt. and 1 Cav. Regt. (MECZ), to North Ireland; U Engr. Regts.,

G.S.* 3 Engr. Bns., separate, and A automatic weapons bos. to England.

5. Asked Elsenhower to submit recommendations for 50,000'additional troops

for September shipment. Asked if he wants an Engr. Amphibian Brigade

which will be available then.

6. Informed Elsenhower that from reliable information there are Axis

fortifications along the Channel coast, and along a line 60 to 100 miles

Inland. Invited recommendations as to training or equipment indicated.

7. Informed Eisenhower that: (a) 2d Div. requested for September shipment

has been designated as an airborne division and will be trained and

available for January shipment. *_-„!_

(b) 45th Div. is receiving amphibious training and will be ready for

late August shipment.

(c) Thereafter the 36th, 29th, 38th, 77th Divs. will receive amphibious

training and should be shipped in turn.

(d) This will affect shipment of other divisions. Requested comments on

- 2 ­

•61

the following program:

For September Shipment; A5th Div.

4-th Motorized, or 2d Armored or 29th Div

For November Shipment: 36th Div.

For January Shipment: 2d Div.

8. Instructed Hawaii, Bora-Bora, Tongatabu, Fiji, New Caledonia and Efate

as to procedure of rendering reports through the officer exercising

unity of command.

SECTION III. PLANS

1. CCS agreed to accept CCS 91, "Strategic Policy and Deployment of

United States and British Forces", as a guide for calculating over­

all production requirements, for other-than-Air Forces, far 1942.

Agreed to reconsider the paper as a whole in the light of additional

changes being studied.

2. CCS noted "Shipping Implications of proposed Air Force Deployment"­

(CCS 87/2)

3. CCS approved a directive to MacArthur governing "Requisition of

Material for the Southwest Pacific Area". (CCS 68/1)

U» CCS agreed that 3500 tons of ground munitions should be allocated to

China for July, and directed the Combined Munitions Assignments Board

to determine the composition of the allocation. (CCS 90 and CCS 90/1,

"July Assignments for China")

5. CCS accepted CCS 89/1, "Combined Communications Board" subject to

proposed amendments.

6. CCS instructed the Combined Planners to reexamine CCS 93 "Form of

Agreement between the UK and the US regarding the Defense of Fiji and

Tonga" in view of the comments of the Operations Division, WDGS.

7. CCS Instructed the Combined Munitions Assignments Board and the

Combined Planners to study the steel situation and recommend where

cuts should be made in current production programs.

THOS. T. HANDY,

Major General,

Assistant Chief of Staff.

-3 ­
 WAR DEPARTMENT
WAR DEPARTMENT GENERAL STAFF
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON

1700 July 18, 1942,

To: Secretary of War

Chief of Staff

Deputy Chief of Staf:

Commanding General, IN TURfl BY COMMISSIONED

Army Air Forces MESSENGER

Commanding General,

Services of Supply

Assistant Chief of Staff,

G-2 (Return to OPD)

SECTION I. MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

1. From DeWitt: Replies that he is alerting one battalion 155 nun

guns (CAC, colored) for movement to the east -coast

to replace, temporarily, a battalion moving to Iceland,

From Wimsatt; Replies that identification of enemy reconnaissance

aircraft over Greenland was positive.

3. From Eisenhower: Asks that Brigade Comdrs. or executives, and S-3 of

all echelons of AA organizations be sent to Europe one

month ahead of their organizations since these will

occupy battle positions upon arrival.

4. From Eisenhower: Heavy tanks cannot be moved by rail in the UK. Must

use roads.

5. From Ondrick (Teheran)(to G-2): Urges thet Polish soldiers be detailed

to protect the trans-Iranian railroad. British are

hiring Persians who are untrustworthy.

6. From Clark, F. S« (Australia): Barnes relinquished command USAFIA

18 July; Clark has assumed command by virtue of

seniority.

7. From Beightler: Assumed command of ground forces, naval local defense

forces, and air units (not part of mobile force) in

Fiji at 6 AM local time, July 18.

SECTION II. OTHER ACTION TAKEN

. Furnished the Bureau of Public Relations (for information of the Office

yiCTORY of Censorship) with a list of Army units of which the addresses should

not be publicized.

BUY

-1 ­
2. Approved construction by Army Air Force means and local equipment

of an airport at Iquitos, Peru. This will be one of a chain of air­

ports needed for patrol of the Amazon basin.

3- Notified Stilwell of Gruber's arrival here, July 17.

4.. Replied to Beiffhtler that the 1st Port Co. is part of the 37th

Division, but will be considered available for other assignment

after arrival of the QM Port Co. now under orders for Fiji. Directed

him to inform Ghormley and Boyers (at Auckland).

5. Instructed Emmons that in conformity with the basic agreement with

the Japanese government all civilian Japanese nationals will be re­

turned to Japan and all American civilians will be returned to this

country from Japan and all Japanese-occupied territory.

SECTION III. PLANS

No approved action by JCS or CCS.

THOS. T. HANDY,

Major General,

Assistant Chief of Staff.

- 2 ­
 1700 July 19, 1942.

To: Secretary of War

Chief of Staff

Deputy Chief of Stafi

Commanding General, IN TORN BY COMMISSIONED

Army Air Forces MESSENGER

Commanding Genera]

Services of Supply

Assistant Chief of Staff,

G-2 (Return to OPD)

SECTION I. MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

1. From Elsenhower: Concurs in training program proposed for

American divisions destined for the European

Theater. Recommends their shipment in the

order: 45th, 4-th, 2d Armored, and 36th.

2. From Brereton: Reports heavy daylight attacks on harbor areas

of Bengasi and Tobruk, without losses, by

US Army heavy bombers, on July 15, 16, and 17.

3• From Andrews; Recommends acquisition by purchase of Cocos

Islands. Desires Puerto Castilla as a base and

is making necessary arrangements for its use.

.. From Butler: Operations report for July 17. Enemy sub­

marine sighted and attacked while shelling

Russian ship. Photographic and bombing

missions undertaken over Kiska, with loss of

one B-17.

5 • From MacArthur; Operations report for July 17. Heavy bombers

attacked the harbor area at Rabaul. A

reconnaissance bomber over Tulagi and another

near Koepang were attacked by Japanese fight­

ers, of which two were shot down and one

damaged, with no Allied loss.

6. From MacArthur: Recommends indefinite deferment of dispatch

of barrage balloons.

SECTION II. QfllER ACTION TAKEN

1. Gave Boneeteel detailed schedule of August shipments to Iceland

2. Requested Eisenhower's views on elimination of heavy tank

battalions from operations in the European Theater.

-1­
S/

3- Notified Naiden that the War Dept. does not contemplate send­
ing to the Asiatic Theater any type of fighter plane other

than the P-40 series.

4.. Informed MacArthur that all requisitions are to be approved,

and final allocation of supply for his area is to be made,

by him or by his authorized representatives.

SECTION III. PLANS

No approved action by JCS or CCS.

THOS. T. HANDY, cJ*

Major General,

Assistant Chief of Staff,

-2­
 WAR DEPARTMENT
WAR DEPARTMENT GENERAL STAFF
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON

1700 July 20, 1942

To: Secretary of War

Chief of Staff

Deputy Chief of Staf

Commanding General IN TURN BY COMMISSIONED

Army Air Forces MESSENGER

Commanding General

Services of Supply

Assistant Chief of Staff

G-2 (Return to OPD)

SECTION I. MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

1. From Major Reaves (Greenland): Wimsatt (injured in crash while searching

for crashed aircraft) must go to Walter Reed and re­

quests temporary replacement.

2. From C/S (London): In order to be better prepared for possibility of

executing "Sledgehammer" some SOS or air troops

now scheduled for shipment may have to be replaced

by other units. Among the latter are 13th FA Brig,

(including 1 regt. 155 ma guns Ml), U Tank Destroyer

Bns.(self-propelled 3"f if possible, otherwise 75

mm), 2 Tank Bns. (M-4- s), 1 Engr. Amphibian Brig.,

Medical and Signal troops. AGF should make such

immediate preparations as are necessary to meet

this possibility promptly on receipt of later advice.

3* From Eisenhower: Replies requesting an Engineer Amphibian Brigade

for September shipment.

From MacArthur: Urges continued development of RAAF as planned,

but in no manner at the expense of our AAF in the

S.W. Pacific Area. American air units must be

present with American ground forces until the ultimate

offensive; to withdraw them would confirm Japanese

ascendency.

5 • From MacArthur: Established USASOS, S.W. Pacific Area, July 20,

superseding USAFIA. Has assigned Prig. Gen. Richard

J. Marshall to command it.

- 1 ­
 SECTION II. OTHER ACTION TAKEN

1. Issued directive to AAF, AGF, SOS, Amphibious Service Command that

the 1st Ground-Air Support Command will furnish air support to

the Amphibious Training Command at Camp Edwards, Mass., to such

extent as does not interfere with current combat operations.

2. Directed AAF and SOS to move the 99th Fighter Gp (colored) and

service units from Tuskegee, Ala. to Charleston Port of Embarkation,

for shipment about Oct. 15.

3* Directed that orders be issued to Western Defense Command to move

one battalion, 155 mm gun (colored), to the Harbor Defenses of

Beaufort Inlet, Moorehead City, N.C. This battalion will temporarily

replace another which is to move to Iceland.

4.. Informed Andrews that the Mexican Govt. has granted permission for

our military aircraft to use the airfield at Cozumel Island for

30 days as a base for antisubmarine operations. Suggested he send

a representative to confer with Adm. Kaufman, Comdr. Gulf Sea

Frontier, who is charged with arranging details.

5, Informed Stilwell that CCS have approved July assignment of 3500

long tons of Lend-Lease material for China. This decision involved

consideration of political expediency; the shipment is not based on

air transport capabilities. Future Lend-Lease Assignments will be

made monthly as the situation indicates and as Stilwell recommends.

SECTION III. PLANS

No approved action by JCS or CCS.

THOS. T.

Major General,

Assistant Chief of Staff

- 2 ­

V
 WAR DEPARTMENT
WAR DEPARTMENT GENERAL STAFF
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON

1700 July 21, 1942

To: Secretary of War

Chief of Staff

Deputy Chief of

, Commanding General, IN TURN BY COMMISSIONED

Army Air Forces MESSENGER

Commanding General,

Services
S of y

Assistant Chief of Staff,

G-2 (Return to OPD)

SECTION I. MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

1. From Bonesteel; Requests authority to activate cannon companies in

three infantry regiments, using personnel from 5th

Div., to be replaced by fillers.

2. From MacArthur: Operations report, July 20. A hostile air attack

caused some damage at Port Moresby in spite of inter­

ception by our pursuit airplanes. A ship was sunk by

a hostile submarine at Jervis Bay (south of Sydney).

3. From Boyers (Auckland): Discharge of 2400 N.Z. troops from Fiji will

be completed at Auckland about Aug. 15*

4.. From Beightler: Detailed initial operations report giving details as

to strength, work accomplished, subsistence situation,

housing, intelligence activities, civil defense, and

main problems (warehousing and defense road-net)•

5. From Emmons:
Replies recommending alternative disposition of his

forces upon arrival of the announced augmentation,

pointing out that the War Dept. proposal would sepa­

rate present units from missions with which they are

already familiar.

6. From Emmons:
Inquires if lack of provision of infantry garrisons

on Penrhyn and Aitutaki islands (southern Pacific

ferry route) was intentional.

SECTION II. O W E R ACTION TAKEN

ICTORV
1. Disapproved a proposal made through AAF that negotiations be opened

with Navy for scheduled trips of an airplane carrier between the U.S

B U Y
and the west coast of Africa.

- 1­
 2. Directed DeW^tt to attach to Buckner's staff an officer familiar with

transportation routes in order to develop a study of the possibility

of establishing additional channels for the supply of Alaska.

3. Informed Wimsatt that Maj. Reaves may act as CO Greenland Base Command

pending selection of a new Acting C O .

4-- Asked Andrews for his reasons for recommending acquisition of Cocos

Islands (Navy holds that they have no value except as a seaplane or

submarine refueling base).

$. Forwarded to C/S a G-2 estimate of the situation on the Russian Front.

6. Replied to C/S that all additional contingent units for Sledgehammer

are available for early August shipment except that: Tank Destroyer

Bns. will be armed with 75 mm guns; M-4. tanks will become available

for one Bn. on Aug. 2, 10, and 20 respectively M-3 tanks being

available now; and details of certain service units require clarifica­

tion. All units have been alerted.

7. Informed Eisenhower that basic ammunition supply plan for his theater,

including AA weapons, is: 1 unit of fire to accompany troops, 9 units

of fire to be shipped in bulk. Asked his recommendations as to amounts

and types of training ammunition required.

8. Asked Eisenhower for monthly totals of replacements needed. War Dept.

will break these down into branches for non-battle casualties; but he

should supply breakdown for estimated battle casualty replacements

since War Dept. has no data on occurrence rates.

9. Informed Eisenhower of following CCS action: (a) Creation of Combined

Communications Board and its duties, (b) Requisition of U.S. vessels for

Bolero, (c) Creation of feeder line to North Atlantic ferry route.

10. (Gruber) asked Stllwell for specific statement as to which portions of

Generalissimo* s demands are advisable and can be used effectively.

11* Notified Emmons and Beightler that an AA regiment with reduced personnel

is being sent to Fiji from the mainland about August 1, for use as

directed by Qhormley. Instructed DeWitt to prepare 76th C.A. Regiment

for shipment.

- 2­
12. Informed Emmons of the rescission of the President's directive for

transportation to concentration camps on the mainland of Japanese

(citizen and alien) residents who are deemed potentially dangerous.

Authorized him as Military Governor to intern any potentially

dangerous citizens of any origin, and to evacuate to resettlement

areas, in family groups, up to 15,000 citizens of Japanese ancestry

who are not trustworthy.

SECTION III. PLANS

No approved action by JCS or CCS.

THOS. T. HANDY, ^ 7

Major General,

Assistant Chief of Staff.

- 3­
 WAR DEPARTMENT
WAR DEPARTMENT GENERAL STAFF
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON

1700 July 22, 1942.

To: Secretary of War

Chief of Staff

Deputy Chief of Staff

Commanding General IN TURN BY COMMISSIONED

Army Air Forces MESSENGER

Commanding General,

Services of Supply

Assistant Chief of Staff

G-2 (Return to OPD)

SECTION I. MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

1, From MacArthur: Operations Report, July 21. Bombers attacked enemy

shipping off Ambasi, obtaining one direct hit on a

large transport, and four close misses.

2. From Naiden: Unsuccessful bombing raid on Myitkyina and successful

raid on dock and warehouses at Hankow, July 18.

3. From Naiden: Successfully bombed Linchwan (Fuchow) on July 19; and

Kiukiang station, docks and warehouses on July 20.

A.
From Naiden: Detailed statement of airplanes available in 10th Air

Force. Urges that an Air Force of sufficient strength

be available to make Japanese bases within range of

Dinjan untenable.

5. From Stilwell; Due to critical air transport situation, he has con­

tracted with CNAC for about 40 exclusive chartered

round-trips between Kunming and Dinjan, at $2,000

each, to move U. S. Aviation personnel and equipment

to China. Tin and tungsten are the chief westbound

cargoes. Requests authorization to contract for entire

capacity of CNAC Lend-Lease transports, and to use

them on this run to move U. S. military personnel and

material and CDS supplies eastward, and military

personnel and strategic supplies westward; will use

Army gasoline and oil. Will secure Generalissimo's

approval before approaching CNAC.

6. From Emmons Requests information as to plans for expansion of Army

Aviation in Hawaiian Department.

- 1­
 7. From C/ft: Concerning the additional units for the European

Theater, one of the last two Medium Tank Battalions,

whose personnel becomes available August 10, should

be equipped with M-3*s and the other with M - V s .

Gives clarifying instructions as to Medical and

Signal units.

8. From Eisenhower; Recommends suspension of consideration of the

use of heavy tanks in his theater.

9. From Andrews; Replies that Cocos Islands are used for watering

Naval vessels, and can be used as a refueling

point, PT boat base, and weather station. They

should be controlled because of their proximity

to the Canal.

10. From Castner (to G-2); Reports attack by B-17fs on Kiska July 20,

resulting in smoke which rose two thousand feet.

Kuluk Bay, Adak, attacked repeatedly by Japanese

bombers.

11. From DeWltt; Recommends compliance with request made by RCAF

for seven P-4.0 E airplanes lost in Alaska as re­

sult of operations. Request has also been made

through Ottawa, but delay in delivery by this

procedure is anticipated.

12 • From DeWitt; The seven airplanes (Canadian) were flying west­

wards from Cold Bay to Umnak to strengthen fighter

elements and to replace our P-^O's lost in combat.

SECTION II. OIHER ACTION TAKM

1. Instructed CG, AAT, to organize immediately a party for the pur­

pose of surveying air routes within the territory of the VSSR in

extension of the present U. S. - Alaska route.

2. Advised CG. AAF, that the difficulties anticipated by Harmon have

been invariably experienced whenever the principle of unity of

command is applied, and for this reason it would not be wise to

try to interpret in specific terms his directive as CG, US Army

Forces in the South Pacific.

- 2 ­
3. Asked Eisenhower for information as to how he plans to organize

and employ AA units, i.e. as one independent AA command under

ground force commander, or as units under air force commander

for reallotment to operational control of fighter commanders.

SECTION III. PLANS

No approved action by JCS or CCS.

THOS. T. HANDY,

Major General,

Assistant Chief of Staff

 140 160

120

20
20

40 -"•40

60
60

100" 156" 140 160

6/

 WAR DEPARTMENT
WAR DEPARTMENT GENERAL STAFF
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON

1700 July 23, 1942

To: Secretary of War.

Chief of Staff

Deputy Chief of Staff

Commanding General IN TURN BY COMMISSIONED

Army Air Forces MESSENGER

Commanding General,"..* i *

Services of Supply™* V

Assistant Chief of Staff,

G-2 (Return to OPD)

SECTION I. MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

1. From Eisenhower: For essential construction the following schedule for the

arrival of divisions in Great Britain is assumed:

Tri­ Motor- Armored Airborne

angular ized
Div.

Sept. 1942

Oct. 1942

Nov. 1942

Dec. 1942

Jan. 1'943

Feb. 1943

Eisenhower inquires whether a forecast of troop availa­

bility indicates the practicability of this schedule.

2. From Eisenhower: If promised landing craft arrive on schedule their per­

sonnel capacity is satisfactory. A thorough study of the

subject emphasizes the need for replacements, particularly

during the first three days of assault. Submits his mini­

mum initial needs, and recommended replacement rate.

From Eisenhower: Urges need for rapid conclusion of negotiations with Bri­
__ tish Government for exclusive' court-martial jurisdiction

over U.S. Army personnel, so that special session of

Parliament will not be necessary.

Action: Notified Eisenhower that State Dept. is cabling the London

Embassy to expedite action.

-1 ­
4.. From Maxwell: Transmits detailed report by Fellers on operations in

Egypt since June 26. Recommends that flow of American

aircraft to Middle-Eastern Theater be heavy, continuous

and immediate.

5. From Brereton; Heavy bombers of American Air Forces successfully attacked

the harbor area of Tobruk, without interception and with­

out loss, July 19.

6. From Brereton; American Air Forces bombed Suda Bay, Crete, during day­
light, July 21, with complete surprise. Two merchant

vessels were hit and fires started ashore. Tobruk was

attacked, without opposition; results undetermined.

7. From Maxwell: Russians do not desire proposed tank school. Armored

Force personnel in Egypt, less group for South Africa,

will await arrival of 150 specialists; return shipments

will begin August 15.

8. From Stilwell: Transfer of Osmun group to his HQ, and reorganization of

the G-2 section completed, July 22.

9. From Wheeler; Replies that there are insufficient horses and mules

available in India for British purposes, but that if U.S.

were given priority, 6,000 animals of varying types could

be obtained in a short time. There is also a shortage in

Africa. Is inquiring as to availability of animals re­

leased by recent mechanization of a cavalry division in

Palestine.

SECTION II. OTHER ACTION TAKEN

1. Sent Eisenhower details of agreement proposed by Navy pertaining to compo­

sition, command status, and training of amphibious forces to be used in the

European Theater.

2. Replied to Eisenhower that outside storage is contemplated here for gliders.

8 additional medium tank bns. will be added to Bolero troop basis.

3. Acknowledged MacArthur's recommendations as to the relative priority of

RAAF and USAAF forces. Assured him that the development of USAAF units in

his theater will be continued in accordance with present commitments.'

4. Informed MacArthur that Brett's recommendations for the establishment of

bomber and fighter training units cannot be met due to lack of personnel.

5. Approved Emmon's alternative plan for reorganization of defenses of

Hawaiian Dept. and directed him to start triangularization of 27th Div.

after arrival of reinforcements.

- 2 ­
6. Replied to Enunons that existing plans visualize only the TEDA air strength

for the Hawaiian Department, but facilities should also be available for 2

additional groups of reinforcing heavy bombers which might temporarily be

based there, or in transit. War Dept. has no information of large Navy

increases in air strength reported by Emmons.

7. Replied to Emmons that infantry garrisons for Penrhyn and Aitutaki were

intentionally omitted in order to keep the defense force to a minimum.

SECTION III. PLANS

No approved action by JCS or CCS.

T. HANDY,/

Major General,

Assistant Chief of Staff.

- 3­
 WAR DEPARTMENT
WAR DEPARTMENT GENERAL STAFF
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON

1700 July 24, 1942.

To: Secretary of War

Chief of Staff

Deputy Chief of Staf

Commanding General,
IN TURN BY COMMISSIONED

Army Air Forces MESSENGER

Commanding General,

Services of Supply

Assistant Chief of Staff,

G-2 (Return to OPD)

SECTION I. MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

From Butler: Bombed Kiska harbor area July 22, results unobserved.

From Reaves (Greenland): Replies that neither he nor the local Navy

officer knows of any agreement regarding the estab­

lishment of land-based defense" of Navy installations

at Gamatron. Reaves considers none to be necessary.

Three Army barracks have been made available to Navy

there.

3. From Eisenhower: British cannot equip 209th AA Regt. and 103d and

106th AA Bns. as mobile units. Requests early ship­

ment of T/BA equipment, also balance of T/0 per­
sonnel to reorganize 209th Regt. as a mobile unit.

4- From Eisenhower: Replying to our invitation of his views as to train­

ing and equipment indicated by reports of fortifica­
tion in northern France, recommends:

<a. Training: As for attack of a fortified zone,

including commando, night attack and infiltration;

air-ground support, amphibious operations, com­

bined operations of all arms; identification of

aircraft and vehicles. Air-borne training to in­

clude operation of British, French and German

motor vehicles and weapons; rapid reconstruction

of runways.

b. Equipment: As for attack of a fortified zone,

including high velocity field guns.

From Eisenhower Recommends that replacements be provided as

prescribed in par. 378 FBI 100-10. He cannot de­

VICTORY
vise occurrence tables which would be more satis-

factory; when his stock of replacements becomes

BUY unbalanced he will notify War Dept.

UNITED
STATES

AVTNOI

ONDS
AND
STAMPS
- 1­
6. From Naiden: Bombed Myitkyina airdrome, obtaining hits, July 22.

7. From Naiden; Bombed railway bridges north of Katha (130 miles

north of Mandalay) July 23.

8. From Stilwell: Replies to Gruber that it is inadvisable to make

any statement regarding Generalissimo's demands

pending outcome of conference.

9. Fronr MacArthur: Operations report, July 22. 120 enemy attacked Mubo

unsuccessfully. 1200 to 2000 landed at Gona and

Buna during the night July 21-22; our air forces

made thirteen bombing and strafing attacks during

the operation, setting fire to one 8,000-ton ship,

probably hitting a destroyer, and effecting other

damage. An air attack was also made against Dilli.

SECTION II. OTHER ACTION TAKEN

1. Authorized DeWitt to loan 7 P-4.0 airplanes, from allotment for Alaska,

to replace Canadian Kittyhawks lost in Alaska. Final allocation of

aircraft to Canada is under consideration by CC/S and must await their

action.

2. Notified Reaves that Col. Tom L. Mosely is en route as acting base

commander.

3. Informed Andrews of the seriousness of our nickel shortage, and in­

structed him to assist the Nicaro Nickel Company projects.

4.. Informed Bone steel that 1 unit of fire for all weapons in the hands

of troopsh 30 days1 rations type B, and 1 day type D will accompany

them on their transports. 90 days1 rations type B, 15 days1 type C,

and U days1 type D will arrive about 2 weeks later.

5 • Sent Navy a copy of Eisenhower's statement of mini mum requirements

in landing Craft, and monthly replacement rate, with inquiry as to

whether it will be possible to meet these requirements­

6. Informed C/S of variations and adjustments in list of units which

he suggested for shipment by specified dates.

7 Notified Stilwell. flaiden and Sibert that the establishment of a

provisional headquarters for the air defense of the Karachi area

is not favorably considered; no means can be furnished by the War

Dept Asked Stilwell to advise the British authorities that

responsibility for the Air defense of Karachi cannot be assumed by

the 10th Air Force.

- 2 ­
 IQQ 140 160
20 \ h

.'FRENCH
SIN0 O

• •

20 20

40 •"•40

60 60
105"
3ZZIIE 140 160
 8. Sent MacArthur a list of gold coins of various nations which are

available in Australia for purchase of rubber.

9. Replies to Beightler that photomapping units are not now available

for his area, but are under consideration for future assignment to

Harmon1 s command for such missions as he finds necessary.

SECTION III. PLANS

No approved action by JCS or CCS.

THOS. T. HANDY, •-i

Major General,

Assistant Chief of Staff.

- 3­

fc?

 WAR DEPARTMENT
WAR DEPARTMENT GENERAL. STAFF
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON

1700, July 25, 1942

To: Secretary of War )

Chief of Staff )

Deputy Chief of St&ffpf^- )

Commanding General, v f i ^ ) IN TURN BY COMMISSIONED

Army Air Forces ^•^ J MESSENGER

Commanding General, Q $

Services of Supply /Wl

Assistant Chief of Staff,

G-2 (Return to OPD)

SECTION I. MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

1. From MacArthur: Operations Report, July 23. Bombed shipping, stores,

and installations in the Gona-Buna area, setting afire

one 5y000-ton transport. Fighters silenced an enemy

AA battery.

2. From Stilwell (to Gruber): Recommends the following aviation program,

provided ocean shipping can support it:

.a. For US Air Forces - 2 Fighter Gps (160 P-40»s)

1 Heavy Bomb Gp (35 B-24»s)

1 Medium Bomb Gp (57 B-25fs)

1 Transport Gp (75 C-47fs or 53fs)

1 Heavy Reconn. Sq. (13 B-24!s)

1 Transport Sq. Special (12 C-47's)

(All airplanes but those of the 2 separate squadrons

are already included in WD plans or in 100-transport

program)

b. For Chinese Air Force - 1 Fighter Gp (80 P-66's)

1 Bomb Gp (15 A-29's or B-25fs)

£. For CNAC 25 C-47's or 53's

(All Chinese airplanes have been approved previously.)

Total is 472 airplanes, (approximately the 500 demanded).

A theater reserve of 173 airplanes in addition is

recommended, plus 83 monthly for attrition replacement.

The proposal includes an outline of operational assign­

ments .

SECTION II. OTHER ACTION TAKEN

- 1 ­

/it
1. Disapproved additional construction at A. P. Hill Reservation, Va.,

to house the remainder of the 26th Division which was moved from

Camp Edwards, Mass. Notified EDC that accommodations will be avail­

able at Forts George G. Meade, Md. and DuPont, Del, after Sept. 1.

2. SGS instructed all senior commanders and missions in the procedure

to be followed in sending classified messages "For General Marshall's

eyes alone".

3. Informed Eisenhower and Maxwell that a German Panzer Division and

casualty replacements for Egypt are reported to have moved from

Germany to Italy. G-2 estimates that they will be available for offen­
sive action by August 15.

U» Informed Eisenhower that movement orders for the 50th Fighter Sq. will

assign it temporarily to Iceland; the 27th Sq. will remain there until

it arrives. (For protection of ferried aircraft.)

5. Notified C/S. StilweU. Brereton* and Naiden that the A-29 bombers

(formerly "Dawson's flight") assembling at Khartoum will continue on

to the 10th Air Force in China (by decision of The President).

6. (AAF) asked StilweU's views on a proposal that the U. S. Govt. loan

to Chinese Govt. or charter to CNAC about 45 airplanes now assigned

to 1st Ferry Gp. At least one Army crew per airplane would be furnished

until CNAC replaced them, and CNAC would furnish lj crews per airplane

immediately. A transportation Section (U.S. Army—Chinese Govt.) would

control cargoes and routes; no revenue passengers or paying cargo would

be carried. CNAC would be paid for operating the airplanes. Maintenance

work would be performed at a depot in Africa or India. A total of 75

airplanes would ultimately be furnished.

7. Informed StilweU of availability of single-shot pistols and ammunition

for use by loyal sympathizers in enemy-occupied territory, and asked

how many could be effectively used.

8. Directed Patch to submit a daily operations report on the Mobile Air

Force (B-17*sT in his area.

SECTION III. PLANS

No approved action by JCS or CCS.

THOS. T. HANDY, jU*.

Major General, **

Assistant Chief of Staff.

- 2 ­
 WAR DEPARTMENT
WAR DEPARTMENT GENERAL. STAFF
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON

1700, July 26, 1942

To: Secretary of War

Chief of Staff

Deputy Chief of Staff

Commanding General,
IN TURN BY COMMISSIONED

Army Air Forces MESSENGER

Commanding General^

Services of Supply

Assistant Chief of Staf£,

G-2 (Return to OPD)

SECTION I. MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

1. From Eisenhower: Replies that all AA units not assigned to armies,

corps, or divisions will be organized under the AA

command. Force commanders will coordinate action of

assigned AA units with RAF Fighter Command, Units of

AA command operating in static defenses of Gt. Britain

will be under command of the theater AA commander, and

under operational control of Air Defenses of Gt, Britain.

2. From Brereton: U, S. bombers attacked Bengazi docks and harbor

facilities during daylight July 23 > scoring hits on

a large merchant vessel and the docks. A night attack

was made on Tobruk the same date.

3. From Stilwell; Urges that his directive remain unchanged.

From MacArthur: Operations report for July 2£. Well-trained and

equipped enemy patrols were encountered 30 miles

southwest of Buna, New Guinea. Allied aircraft made

five attacks on installations and barges in the Gona

area. Enemy aircraft attacked our airdrome near Port

Moresby, causing slight damage; our attempts at inter­

ception failed on account of the high altitude.

5. From Beightler: Maj. Gen. Mead and U other officers of the 3d N, Z. •

Division are apparently lost at sea between Fiji and

Tongatabu.

6. From Patch (to SOS): Vessel enroute from Brisbane to Noumea with 520

cavalry horses was torpedoed and sunk, July 25­

- 1 ­

1
SECTION II. OTHER ACTION TAKEN

1. Informed Andrews that the Mexican and Guatemalan governments apparently

plan to construct by October, 1942, a bridge connecting their adjacent

railroad termini. The proposed gasoline pipeline connection would thus

Seem unnecessary. Requested Andrews' views.

2. Informed Eisenhower of proposal made in London to form a bombing

objectives unit at the American Embassy, London. Asked his recommenda­

tions inasmuch as he has access to British Ministry of Economic Warfare

and could set up a bombing objectives group within his own jurisdiction.

3. Approved Maxwell's plan for use of U. S. armored force personnel now in

his theater,

U» Asked Stilwell and MacArthur for recommendations as to' quantities of

single-shot pistols and ammunition desired for distribution in their

theaters.

5. Informed MacArthur that 30,000 jungle kits will be shipped in six weeks,

and 30,000 more four weeks later. Requested his comments on sample.

6. Informed Emmons of proposed investigation of Pineapple Producers'

Association and asked if the prosecution would seriously interfere with

the war effort.

SECTION III. PLANS

No approved action by JCS or CCS.

THOS. T. HANDY,

Major General,

Assistant Chief of Staff.

- 2 ­
 WAR DEPARTMENT
WAR DEPARTMENT GENERAL STAFF
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON

1700 July 27, 1942

To: Secretary of War

Chief of Staff

Deputy Chief of Staff

Commanding General
IN TURN BY COMMISSIONED

Army Air forces

MESSENGER

Commanding General,

Services of Supply

Assistant Chief of Staff,

G-2 (Return to OPD)

SECTION I. MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

1. From DeWitt; Reconnaissance by ADC Engineer indicates that Adak Island

is too rough to permit making a landing field. There is a

good beach at the head of Tanaga Bay on Tanaga Island,

The Tanaga site offers the best promise for construction

of an airfield.

2. From Spaatz (to CGAAP): Seven squadron and flight commanders, and pilots

of 31st Fighter Gp. attached to an RAF Wing participated

in daylight sweep over Abbeville Airdrome, July 26. One

officer missing.

3. From Greely: Recommends trucks be furnished to Iranian Army which expects

tangible help. The Minister of War will come to U.S. if

invited, in order to establish position of Iran as an active

ally.

4.. From MacArthur: Operations Report for July 25. Two ships attacked by

submarines south of Cape Everard. Allied forward units

withdrawn west of Kumusi River (20 mi. NW of Gona). Our

bombers attacked enemy positions in the Buna-Gona area,

Lae airdrome, Sohana Island, and Buka airdrome. Enemy

aircraft bombed Darwin and Townsville with little effect.

5. From Emmons (to CGAAF): 11th Bomb. Group (Heavy) less 1 Sq. has left

Hawaii as a Mobile Force.

6. From Harmon; Assumed command of Army forces in South Pacific Area July

26, with command post at Suva until July 29 when he will

move to Noumea.

- 1­
 KO 160

ZZZI

kBUKAySOHANA S.

20

AU S T R A L I A

CAPE EVERARD

•"•40
40

60
60
160
SECTION II. OTHER ACTION TAKEN

No important action completed,

SECTION III. PLANS

No approved action by JCS or CCS.

THOS. T. HANDY,

Major General,

Assistant Chief of Staff.

- 2 ­
 WAR DEPARTMENT
WAR DEPARTMENT GENERAL STAFF
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON

1700 July 28, 1942.

To: Secretary of War

Chief of Staff

Deputy Chief of Staff

Commanding Gener IN TURN BY COMMISSIONED

Army Air Forces MESSENGER

Commanding G e n e r ^

Services of Supply

Assistant Chief of Staff,

G-2 (Return to OPD)

SECTION I. MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

1. From Navy; Message from Ghormley to subordinate commanders

assigns Harmon responsibility for training all Army

ground and air units in the South Pacific Area;

Admiral McCain is charged, under Ghormley, with

operational control of all shore and tender based

aircraft•

2. From Greely; Recommends that the Iranian Minister of War and one

staff officer be invited to accompany Greely to

Washington to establish an American-Iranian alliance.

3. From Brereton: Reports arrival of A-29ls at Khartoum. Requests

notification of destination.

SECTION II. OTHER ACTION TAKEN

No important action completed.

SECTION III. PLANS

1. JCS agreed to recommend deferment of action on CCS 96, "Plans for

Strategic Deception", pending further study by Joint Planners to

determine the agency which will operate with the British in this

matter•

2. JCS agreed to recommend that CCS 97, "Strategic Hypothesis for

Deployment of Forces in April, 1944-% be referred back to the

Combined Planners for certain constructive changes.

ICTOKV

BUY

- l ­
3. JCS accepted the proposed amendment of JB No. 34-6, "Maritime Commission

Representative on the Army and Navy Munitions Board", with the provision

that the addition of such a member t>e mandatory.

4-. JCS disapproved proposals, presented by WPB, for a modification of the

present aircraft production program to provide a greater proportion of

air transports. \

THOS. T. HANDY,

Major General,

Assistant Chief of Staff.

- 2 ­
 WAR DEPARTMENT
WAR DEPARTMENT GENERAL STAFF
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON

1700, July 29, 1942

To: Secretary of War

Chief of Staff

Deputy Chief of Staff

Commanding Genera, IN TURN BY COMMISSIONED

Army Air Forces MESSENGER

Commanding General,

Services of Supply

Assistant Chief of Staff,

G-2 (Return to OPD)

SECTION I. MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

1. From Castner: Navy reports that an advanced air field and seaplane

base can be established on Atka island.

2» From Andrews: Withdraws recommendation for construction of pipeline

connecting Guatemalan and Mexican railroad terminals.

3. From Eisenhower: Replies that there is no intention of forming a bomb­

ing objectives unit in the London Embassy. The

latterfs information facilities will be used by 8th

Air Force in studying bombing objectives.

4« From Brereton; Our heavy bombers attacked the harbor and dock facili­
ties at Tobruk during darkness, July 25. Among the

fires started was one which appeared to be the gasoline

and oil storage.

5* From MacArthur: (1) Operations Report, July 26:

Allied units were engaged at Kokoda pass, (4.8 miles NE

of Port Moresby). Our aircraft attacked AA batteries

and stores at Gona. The enemy bombed Nadzab (Lae area)

heavily, July 25, and Darwin. Dutch-Japanese patrols

were engaged in the Dilli area, July 24­

(2) Operations Report, July 27:

Kokoda airdrome was destroyed and tjie village evacuated,

Our bombs destroyed some huts and an ammunition dump in

the Buna-Gona area; they also made a night attack on

Penfoei airdrome. Enemy raiders attacked Darwin and

Townsville with little effect.

6. From Naident
Our airplanes bombed Myitkyina airdrome and Katha docks,

(no date).

CTORV

- 1 ­

7f

SECTION II. OTHER ACTION TAKEN

1. Informed Andrews that the British Joint Staff Mission intends to send

a directive to British commanders in the Caribbean area applying to

all of them the terms of ABC-3 as far as their local conditions permit.

This directive will contain the statement that CG, Carib. D. C. has

operational command of the military forces in British Honduras.

2. Replied to Bonesteel suggesting that because of shortage of weapons

he delay until fall his request for activation of cannon companies in

his infantry regiments.

3. Notified Maxwell that the A-29fs of Nealfs flight should proceed at

once towards China, reporting upon arrival in India to the senior

officer, U. S. air forces, for further instructions.

A. Replied to Greely that State Dept. is considering his recommendation to

invite the Iranian Minister of War to Washington; meanwhile Greely is to

return promptly to U. S. and make no commitment in behalf of U. S. Govt.

SECTION III. PLANS

No approved action by JCS or CCS.

THOS. T. HANDY,

Major General,

Assistant Chief of Staff.

- 2­
 WAR DEPARTMENT
WAR DEPARTMENT GENERAL STAFF
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON

1700 July 30, 19A2

To: Secretary of War

Chief of Staff

Deputy Chief of IN TURN BY COMMISSIONED

Commanding General, MESSENGER

Army Air Forces

Commanding General,

Services of Supply

Assistant Chief of Staff,

G-2 (Return to OPD)

SECTION I. MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

1. From MacArthur Operations Report, July 28.

New Guinea; Japanese occupied Mamba mission (4.0 miles

NW of Gona.) Our troops reoccupied Kokoda, Light air­

craft attacks were made by our forces on Gona and by

the enemy on Port Moresby,

Timor; Japanese landed at Ilwaki on Wetar Island, (north

of Timor). Our aircraft attacked Penfoei airdrome near

Koepang.

Australia; Two enemy air raids on Darwin, with minor

damage; one attempted raid on Townsville.

2. From Emmons: Replies that the proposed investigation of the Pine­

apple Industry would create considerable local contro­
versy. He fears that Japanese propaganda will turn the

apparent disunity to profit. However, he does not be­

lieve the investigation will seriously interfere with the

Government's procurement of pineapple or with Martial

Law in Hawaii. He urges that it be brief and without

publicity.

3. From Harmon: Requests one C-4.7 transport squadron for inter island

movement of material and personnel, three B-24. trans­

ports for long-range traffic, three training airplanes

at New Caledonia, Fiji and New Zealand, respectively,

for command, inspections and supervision of construction.

From Eisenhower; Requests 1 2 - 3 passenger, 3 - 1 2 passenger, and 18

training-type airplanes to supplement inadequate

communications; also a transport squadron to ferry

-l j

- 1­

5* From Eisenhower: Asks authority to allot grades and ratings and to

approve tentative T/0!s for overhead installations

such as guard companies for disciplinary barracks,

Hq. organizations for SOS sections, Base Section

8th Air Force, etc.

SECTION II. OTHER ACTION TAKEN

1. Asked Andrews for his views on the request of the Dutch Naval Commander

at Surinam to use a small part of the Marine Base at Parajnaribo. (Pan­

* American operators of the base have no objection.)

2. Instructed Andrews to expedite release of surplus materials at Jamaica

for Nicaro Nickel Co. project.

3. Informed MacArthur that JCS have directed the Joint Psychological Warfare

Committee to prepare a plan for operation against Japan. OPD holds that

preparation of the plan requires full information as to what organization

MacArthur has set up, what facilities he has or would like, and his views

and wishes on the subject in general.

SECTION III. PLANS

No action reported by JCS or CCS.

THOS. T. HANDY, '

Major General, /

Assistant Chief of Staff.

- 2­
 WAR DEPARTMENT
WAR DEPARTMENT GENERAL STAFF
OPERATIONS DIVISION

WASHINGTON

1700 July 31, 1942

To: Secretary of War

Chief of Staff

Deputy Chief of Staff

Commanding General, IN TURN BY COMMISSIONED

Army Air Forces MESSENGER

Commanding General,

Services of Supply,

G-2 (Return to OPD)

SECTION I .
w

Assistant Chief of Staff

MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

From MacArthur; Operations report for July 29. 2 enemy convoys,

totaling U destroyers, U transports, and 1 possible

military landing craft carrier are proceeding toward

Gona. \ destroyers and 1 gunboat are in Steffen Strait,

New Ireland, and U warships, 15 merchant vessels, 5

flying boats, and 12 to 15 fighters are at Rabaul,

New Britain. Enemy troops recaptured Kokoda, July 29,

and the Allied forward positions are 2 miles southeast.

Bombers and fighters attacked enemy convoy 5 miles

north of Gona, scoring a direct hit on a destroyer or

merchant vessel and U near misses on other vessels.

1 enemy airplane was probably destroyed. Allied air­

craft successfully attacked an enemy submarine off

Cape Howe.

From Harmon: Recommends early dispatch of 1 Engineer Regt. General

Service, 1 Engineer Bn., Aviation, and 1 QM Bn., Truck,

to New Caledonia, and of 1 Engineer Bn., Aviation, to

Fiji, in view of additional work required on the 12 air­

fields in New Caledonia and in the island areas to the

northwest.

From Butler (to CGAAF): Air operations report for July 29. Army heavy

bombers attacked Kiska Harbor, dropping sixty-one {500 !*

bombs. Results undetermined.

From Castner (to G-2)(2 messages): Two Catalinas bombed Kiska camp area

July 29; bursts observed among the buildings. Three

flights of bombers dropped a total of thirty-one 500 lb.

bombs on Kiska Harbor, July 30; results not observed.

CTOKV

- 1 ­
 140 160
120

20

CAPE EOViE

40

60 60
100 120 140 160

t r
ill
SECTION II. OTHER ACTION TAKEN

1. Approved DeWitt's proposal for further evacuation of Japanese from areas

near airdromes in the Western Defense Command when any evidence of

sabotage or subversive activities indicates the desirability of such

action,

2. Informed the CG, SOS, that "Rimnons is charged with the responsibility

for building flying fields at Penrhyn and Aitutaki Islands and with the

provision of necessary supplies, personnel, and equipment incident thereto.

Harmon is to be responsible for the supply of task forces for these

islands, due to leave the US about September 1st. The Joint Logistics

Plan for the support of U.S. bases in the South Pacific Area is amended

accordingly.

3. Requested Eisenhower to take action to have air reconnaissances of North­

east Greenland made at about 3 week intervals in cooperation with U.S.

Navy Greenland Patrol vessels during the period of open navigation.

Authorized temporary diversions of 8th Air Force aircraft if necessary.

Requested reports on plans, and on results of missions.

SECTION III.

1. CCS referred CCS 97, "Strategic Hypothesis for Deployment of Forces

in April, 1944," oack to the Combined Planners for such modifications

as are necessary to reconcile it with CCS 94­

2. CCS deferred consideration of CCS 92/1, "Dominion Air Forces" until

the next meeting.

3. CCS postponed consideration of CCS 94, "Operations in 1942/43% at

MarshallVs suggestion.

THOS. T. HANDY,

Major General, /

Assistant Chief of Staff.

- 2 ­