WAR DEPARTMENT
          OFFICE OF THE CHIEF OF STAFF
                  WASHINGTON
          
                              MARCH 20,1942.
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT:
 
Subject: Situation in Burma.
 
              Herewith are summaries of three radiograms received from General Stilwell. They were
all filed in Chungking at ll:30 A.M. March 19, which was ll:30 P.M. March 18, Washington time.
 
DIVISION OF COMMAND
 
              Stilwell acknowledges receipt of suggested plan to divide Burma theater into two
commands; British in South and Chinese in North. Says plem is not feasible. British cannot hold
without strong Chinese help. Six C,hinese divisions already in South with the British. Japanese
expected to attack North soon. Stilwell and Alexander (British General) have plans which can be
followed regardless of command question.
 
NEED FOR AIRPLANES IN INDIA
 
              Sttlwell says prompt action to build up loth U.S. Air Force in India is essential. American
Volunteer Group's equipment exhausted. He invites attention to extent of front and nature of
terrain. Chinese 6th Army covers front of 220 miles, then a gap of lO0 miles to the West where
the Chinese 5th Army covers a front of 80 miles. 5th Army covers Rangoon-Mandalay Road.
British astrideRangoon-Prome Road. Rugged mountains heavily forested east of Rangoon-Mandalay Valley. Between Tongoo and Prome range of hills with thick cover. Rains due late in
April. Front inactive March 17.
 
SUPPLY
 
                     Trying to organize medical and evacuation services. Shortage of doctors, medicine,
instruments, transportation and planes. Hopes to fly supplies frown Calcutta. Malaria and
Blackwater Fever have started. Health in general good. Malaria malignant type not expected until
May. Supply working so far due entirely to British help. Rice stocks will
be moved from South Burma if possible. Definite limit to number of