781.00/7–1750: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Embassy in Greece
167. Fol text L 576, July 17, 1950, from Van Fleet:1
“Before leaving Greece this date, I feel I shld report that the present Greek Govt is dangerous. Ever since the Plastiras govt was formed the Communists and fellow travellers have gradually regained their morale and influence and many are now in important positions. A worsening of the situation was evident to me upon my return from East Africa on 5 July. My recent tour of A, B and C Corps and conferences with Papagos confirm many alarming moves by the Plastiras govt such as amnesty for dangerous war criminals and the relief of police and gendarmerie offs. It is shocking to me that we support a govt which permits red infiltration so soon after so much blood and money has been spent here to suppress Communist aggression.”
Van Fleet’s comments source considerable concern to Dept. Ur comments requested after appropriate discussion Porter and Jenkins.2
- Lt Gen. James A. Van Fleet, Chief of the Joint United States Military Aid Group to Greece, departed from Athens on July 17 for reassignment as Commanding General, Second Army, Fort George G. Meade, Md.↩
- Maj. Gen. Reuben E. Jenkins assumed the position of Chief of the Joint United States Military Aid Group to Greece on July 17 upon the departure of Lt. Gen. Van Fleet.↩