Memorandum from Acting Secretary of State James Webb to President Harry S. Truman, with Attachments

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NLT DEPARTMENT OF STATE WASHINGTON TOP SECONT OLUNL December 18, 1950 MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT Subject: Suggestions of the Departments of State and Defense for Procedure in Connection with Brussels Conference The Departments of State and Defense suggest for your approval the following procedure in connection with the establishment of the European Defense Force and the designation of General of the Army Dwight D. Eisenhower as the Supreme Allied Commander, Europe: (1) The North Atlantic Council will on Monday approve action by the North Atlantic Defense Committee regarding the contribution of Germany to the defense of Western Europe and the creation of an integrated European Defense Force, the establishment of a Supreme Headquarters in Europe, and the reorganization of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization military structure. (2) As part of the Council action establishing the Integrated Defense Force and the Supreme Headquarters, it is expected that a resolution will be adopted requesting the President of the United States to designate a U. S. Officer to take the position of Supreme Allied Commander, Europe. At the same time the resolution will express the hope that you will favorably consider General Eisenhower for the position. Upon taking this action it is Secretary Acheson's intention to request a recess, during which time he will communicate with you in order to secure your designation of General Eisenhower for the stated post. A copy of Secretary Acheson's proposed telegram to you transmitting this request is attached (Attachment A). It is expected that this message will be received Monday afternoon. Following receipt of Secretary Acheson's message you may wish to call General Eisenhower to inform him of your intention to designate him. A draft reply which could be sent Monday night for use at the Tuesday morning session at the Council is attached (Attachment B) . (3) Following DECLASSIFIED 5.0.10265 SEC.O By WIT-NC NARS, Date FOP SECREI