WAR DEPARTMENT OFFICE OF THE CHIEF OF STAFF WASHINGTON March 18, 1942. MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT: Subject: Transporting Troops on Cargo Boats. General Somervell informs me that arrangements have been made, through the Maritime Commission, to make some small constructional alterations on United States flag cargo boats which will permit approximately a platoon of 50 men to be carried without undue hardships. These alterations can be accomplished during the routine turn-arounds in port and, therefore, will involve no delays. The estimate is that for all overseas cargo movements some 20,000 men can be accommodated in this manner in a six months' period. This estimate does not include a similar aprangement by the British, but we have them looking into the matter. G.C.Marshall Chief Staff |