715.1715/664
The Minister in Honduras (Erwin) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 4.]
Sir: I have the honor to refer to the Legation’s telegram No. 67, September 19, 8 p.m., 1937, and to the Department’s telegram No. 29, September 22, 6 p.m., 1937, relative to the possible employment of American pilots by the Honduran Government to fly its planes, and to report that I was today informed by “Colonel” Brooks that to date he had not taken any steps towards obtaining these new men.
With regard to the same question, the Minister for Foreign Affairs told me that he knew nothing whatsoever concerning the matter, such things being handled directly by the President. In accordance with the Department’s instructions, it was pointed out to him that the Legation could not but look with grave concern upon American pilots being used in the event of hostilities. The Foreign Minister then said that he did not know what instructions the President had given his son, Mr. Gonzalo Carías C, who has returned to New York City as Honduran Consul General and who may possibly be endeavoring to employ Americans. In this connection, when Mr. Carías returned to this country some weeks ago he brought with him one American mechanic, but no pilots.
There is an unconfirmed rumor in the town that possibly Mexican pilots will be employed, but, to date, the Air Force maintains its status quo, namely, with approximately ten student Honduran pilots under the direction of “Colonel” Brooks and the Inspector of Aviation, Mr. Luis Fiallos, who is a pilot trained in the United States.
Respectfully yours,