821.00/7–1444: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Colombia (Lane)
973. Ambassador Turbay has presented a memorandum28 requesting 5,000 rifles and an appropriate amount of ammunition for the Army. No mention was made of rifles being needed for the Police.
The War Department might be able to provide the rifles but would be disposed to deliver them only in the event that impelling political considerations made this advisable. Rifles are naturally in very short supply at this time.
In the light of the foregoing, and having in mind the contents of your telegram no. 1253 of July 14, 8 p.m., the Department would appreciate receiving your recommendations at this time as well as any additional observations you may wish to make.
- Not printed.↩