781.5/10–550: Telegram
The Ambassador in Greece (Peurifoy) to the Secretary of State 1
1182. Accompanied by General Jenkins I attended meeting Greek War Council yesterday noon discuss size of Greek Armed Forces. Papagos supported by Defense Minister Karamanlis2 emphasized importance of security of country even over economic recovery and maintained position of increasing armed forces from 122,000 to 147,000. Papagos expressed reported strength of neighboring countries and felt as responsible officer in Greek Government that chances should not be taken during trying times with the security of the country. General Jenkins shared view of larger army. Prime Minister felt size should remain 122,000. I took position that my government vitally interested in entire problem particularly question obtaining funds for maintenance either existing or larger armed forces. I expressed view that [Page 426] question of armed force strength was basically for decision by Greek Government.
As previously pointed out current size of Greek Armed Forces is greater than country itself could support at present time and sufficient strides not taken in Greek economy to produce common use items, et cetera, to offset economic impact of maintaining such large force. Present force or even reduced strength sufficient to maintain civil order and internal security; however problem of establishing or building additional defensive strength sufficient to serve as bulwark to aggression from outside or provide military assistance to other countries which may be engaged, viz Korea, requires broader consideration. Therefore request immediate guidance in view of over-all decision to be made soon by Greek Government which is meeting with Porter in steering committee today.