-3- #623, December 8, 8 p.m. (SECTION ONE) from Moscow staff gave us our first view of the
maps of the battle area, details of the battle plan and a description of the engagements which had
been fought in the area.
     General Chistakov detailed for us the precautions that were being taken and the armies
which were being employed in protecting the flanks of his salient.  He gave us also considerable
information regarding his transportation and supply problem.  Because of unfavorable weather
conditions he said that air strength had not taken any important part in the battle up to that time. 
He made clear, however, the important part which air strength was expected to play in the
subsequent phase of destroying encircled enemy troops.
 
THOMPSON
 
WWC