October 2, 1942 My dear Mr. President: I attach herewith a copy of a dispatch which I have received from Ambassador Messersmith x896 suggesting that the flags captured by our troops in the Battle of Chapultepec on the thirteenth of September, 1847, be returned to the Mexican Government. I agree with the Ambassador that this would be a highly desirable gesture and that it would be a very happy symbolic expression of the relations now exist- ing between Mexico and the United States. It is indeed a source of the deepest satisfaction that Mexico and the United States, for the first time in the history of the two nations, are fighting side by side. It is my understanding that the flags in question are currently in the Chapel at West Point and under the general custody of the Quartermaster General of the Army. If you are in agreement with our recommendation that they be returned to the Government of Mexico, you will wish to communicate with the Secretary of War in regard to the carrying out of the necessary arrangements. Faithfully yours, Sumner Welles Enclosure: As above. The President, The White House. |