Memorandum for the Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff - Subject: Temporary Reinforcement as a Berlin Deterrent (S)

SEGRET MAY 29 1961 FOR THE CHAIRMAN, JOINT CHIEFS OF STAFF c-73712 ASSISTANT SECRETARY or DEFENSE, ISA ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF DEFENSE, COMPTROLLER C-73716 ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF DAFENSE, MANPOWER C-73217 ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF DEFENSE, INSTALLATIONS AND LOGISTICS C-73718 SUBJECT: Temporary Reinforcement as a Berlin Deterrent (a) It may soon desirable to show moire clearly to the USSR, with- out fanfare, the U.S. determination and ability to apply military power in the Berlin situstion. I consider that temporary reinforcement of U.S. forces in Huroge and some expansion of U.S. capability to reinforce further are among the most meeningful acts toward this purgose. The primary objective of such actions would be to deter the USSR from initiating a Berlin crisis. 1 June are SD862 It is requested that the JOS, in coordination with other addressees, study and provide me by 6 June their vlews and recommendations regarding the capability for, approximate costa of, and main implications of B. An air mobility exercise of about two battle groups to Germany in June, and return within 2-3 weaks, on the order of Long Thrust. b. Novement (air, sea, or both) of one STRAC division to Germany or Italy in July for a one- or two-month period. e. Calling one resorve component division to activo service in July for a 30- or 60-day period. d. Other similar scale activity of ground, naval, and air units which you consider vould contribute significantly to the above objective at this stage. For the purpose of this study, the Assistant Secretaries of Defense, International Security Affairs, Comptroller, Nanpower and Installations and Logistics are requested to provide all necessary guidance, assistance and support in their respective areas to the Joint Chiefa of Staff. For planning purgoses, it should be assumed that these operations would be funded above present budgetary levels. It is emphasized that this study is for planning purgoses only and should not prompt any preparatory setivity. Implementation vould be a matter for decision at the highest level. Signed Signature Authens Bys CC: mr. pilpatric Reyn has ROSWELL L. GILPATRIC 73543 erry A. Long C-73691 CWO-2 USA Deputy Secretary of Defense a 73713 Prepared by: LtCol Armstrong, DIST: Orig &3 cys JCS EurReg/ISA/26 May 61, X-54812) 1 each to other ec: Secretary of the Anay Rm 3D256/dr, addees listed 6-73714-Becculatory of the Nevy SUBLOGED OSD, R&C File, R&C Reading, -73715- Secretary of the Air Force Comeback, Stayback