MARSHAL DILL pointed out that the British had available to move on 23 days notice,
an expeditionary force of 55,000 men which could be reinforced from Malta; that the Prime
Minister had thought that if this occasion arose, it would be desirable for United States forces to
land in Morocco, possibly to precede the British.
 
                GENERAL MARSHALL said that at the present time a Corps Commander is planning
an expedition to Africa which would include an amphibious corps. That this would be a task
force, ready for any action that might present itself; and that if an opportunity existed to occupy
North Africa without difficulty, the United States should take advantage of it. That United States
troops for this purpose are available, but that there is a shortage in antiaircraft guns, 50 caliber
ammunition and 37 mm ammunition for both anti-aircraft and anti-tank guns; also a shortage of
planes. However, if the initial move could be made without fighting, the United States has already
organized a sufficient number of squadrons to take care of the operation; that time is
    of greatest importance, and that while the American Force could not complete its movement
within 23 days, it could within approximately 30 days at the earliest, contingent on the availability
of tonnage.
 
               ADMIRAL KING asked as to the possibility of furnishing an American token force,
such as a regiment.
 
               GENERAL MARSHALL said that a token force as part of the British forces would be
feasible, but that he could not put a lone regiment on the coast of Africa. The question was asked
as to whether the Marines now in Iceland could be ready for this move. GENERAL HOLCOMB
agreed that they could be.
 
               THE CONFERENCE agreed that this question should be studied by the Joint Planning
Committee.
 
         8.      BRAZIL. -
 
                ADMIRAL KING said that the political situation in Brazil made the United States
Marine.-Naval position of a "touch and go" nature; that the Germans are well organized in Brazil
and have followers among important members of the Government. If it becomes necessary to
occupy Brazil, such a move might meet with armed resistance.
 
GENERAL MARSHALL said that after prolonged negotiations, the United States has been able
to place only a small number of unarmed Marines in Brazil.
 
         9.       THE CURACAO-ARUBA AREA. -
 
                  ADMIRAL STARK brought up the question of the critical situation
in the Curacao Aruba area with respect to Allied oil supply, pointing out
 
 
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