Paris Peace Conf. 181.9202/103a: Telegram
The Commission to Negotiate Peace to the Secretary of State
4183. For the Secretary of War from Polk. General Bandholtz, who is doing most valuable work in Budapest will revert to the rank of Colonel on October 1st. As he is practically standing alone against the Roumanian activities, his reduction in rank would seriously injure his prestige and could not satisfactorily be explained to his colleagues and probably would be misrepresented by his enemies. Would it not be possible for General Bandholtz to continue his rank of Brigadier General until his work is completed? This really is a most important matter for this Government I earnestly hope that you can arrange it. It may be his work will be completed before October 1st, but there is no certainty for that happening. Please do all you can to help us. Polk.