WAR DEPARTMENT OFFICE OF THE CHIEF OF STAFF WASHINGTON MEMORADUM FOR THE PRESIDENT: Subject: Defenses of Ireland. I have discussed with Admiral Stark and General Arnold the questions raised in the attached letter from the American Minister in Dublin. We feel that the matter of placing additional American troops in Ireland should not be presented to the Combined Chiefs of Staff at this time. As you know, we are in process of sending to Ire- land a force of three triangular and one armored division with supporting ground troops, totaling about 105,000 men. Plans contemplate sending an additional 80,000 men, includ- ing 22,000 Air Corps, when the units become available. The movement of these forces will require the use of all avail- able shipping for a considerable time. A comprehensive study is now being made to deter- mine the most effective allocation of American forces to specific areas in 1942. This study will form the basis for decisions by the Combined Chiefs of Staff affecting the use of American forces in all areas. Chief of Staff. 1 Incl: Ltr. to The President from the American Minister in Dublin, 2-16-42. |