December 29; 1941
 
ANNEX 3
to
JCCSs-5
 
MEMORANDUM .FOR THE PRESIDENT'
 
                  It is suggested that as soon as a preliminary
decision is reached as to the delimitation of the Southwest Pacific
theater; and in agreement with the British and Dutch authoritie~; a
communication in substance as follows be dispatched to Chiang Kai'Shek'
 
1.    In order to insure immediate coordination and cooperation
in our common effort against the enemy; there is being established a
Supreme Commander for all British, Dutch; and American forces in the
Southwest Pacific theater.
 
2. The advisability of a similar command of actlv, ities of
the Associated Powers in the Chinese theater appears ev:ident. This
theater we suggest should initially include such portion of Thailand
and Indo-China as may becomeaccessible to troops of the Associated
Powers. In agreement with the representatives of the British and Dutch
Governments; I desire to suggest that you should undertake to exercise
such command Over all forces of the Associated Powers which are now, or
may in the future be operating in the Chinese theater.
 
             3.    It is our thougilt that, in order to make such
command effective; a joint planning staff should at once be organized
consisting of representat&'yes of the British~ Dutch; American; and
Chinese governments. If you consider it practicable, and Russia agrees,
a Russian representative might be included. This staff should function
under your supreme Command.
 
            4. The commander of the Southwest Pacific theater and the
commandler of the British forces in India would be directed to maintain
the closest liaison with your headquarters. A mutual exchange of
liaison officers between the three headquarters would be desirable.
 
5. Such arrangements would enable your counsel ~nd influence to be
given effect in the formulation of the general strategy for the
conduct of the war in all theaters. Your v. iews in this matter w. ill
be greatly appreciated by me.
 
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