NAVY DEPARTMENT
          OFFICE OF THE CHIEF OF NAVAL OPERATIONS
                                    WASHINGTON
 
                    September 9, 1941.
 
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT:
 
Subject:     Re-definition of Western Atlantic Area.
 
          You may remember at our recent conference you approved 
the re-definition of the Western Atlantic Area, as shown in green 
on the attached chart. However, Admiral King feels that this 
line runs somewhat too close to the southern part of Iceland, 
and has proposed another line whose western end is somewhat fur-
ther south. The slanting line coincides approximately with your 
definition of the European Combat Area.
 
          I can see several advantages in going along with Admiral 
King in this matter. I did not like to bother you with it, under 
the present circumstances, and so have myself issued instructions 
to him, defining the Western Atlantic Area as shown by the verti-
cal green line at longitude 26 degrees West, but turning northeast at 
latitnde 52 degrees North and ruuning along the line shown in blue en-
titled "Proposed Modification".
 
          This new area should give a better opportunity for appro-
priate sea routes to Iceland, and the protective operations of 
naval escorting and covering forces. It is also advisable from an
iceberg standpoint.
 
          I would like to get an "Okay, F.D.R.", but, of course, if 
you do not approve, we can cancel instructions by dispatch and ad-
here to the green line.
 
          I felt so sure that the orders issued would meet your 
approval, and in the interest of getting them out as soon as pos-
sible, I went ahead.
 
                                   BETTY