The U.S. Army is prepared to reinforce the foregoing initial contingent with air and ground
forces to the extent necessary to maintain its position in North Africa against probable Axis
attack. Adequate U.S. antiaircraft defense cannot be provided prior to July.
 
       If the above operation is ordered, shipping will not be available for other overseas movement
in the Atlantic.
 
 
                                   /s/ G.C. Marshall
                                   Chief of Staff
 
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