811.24532/10–1046: Telegram
The Chargé in Brazil (Daniels) to the Secretary of State
[Received 6:15 p.m.]
1738. ReDeptel 1314, October 9, 7 p.m.57 Status of Belém, Natal and Fortaleza airports as follows:
On July 1 last Air Section of JBUSMC assumed command of foregoing bases and all other United States Forces and installations in Brazil and Air Transport Command relinquished such command as it previously possessed. Foregoing three bases now under Brazilian flag and command and have been since July. Air Section of JBUSMC which was designated to constitute Joint Technical Commission as provided for in secret military air base agreement is now responsible and has been since that time for operation and maintenance of aforesaid three bases and others. In meantime work has been progressing smoothly and as rapidly as possible in accounting for American property on these bases so as to list thoroughly and accurately fixed installations and appurtenances on the one hand which are Brazilian property under terms of agreement to between both Governments and movable property considered surplus on the other hand which has already been sold in bulk to Brazilian Government [Page 458] and needs only proper listing and valuation. Accordingly there has been no important change in status of Fortaleza Natal and Belém in recent weeks but progress has been made according to plan in determining definitely fixed installations, reassignment of American and Brazilian personnel and other details consistent with foregoing program. American personnel on bases limited to number necessary for property accounting purposes referred to above plus technical personnel for training and essential operations under Air Section to maintain bases pursuant to secret agreement. As more Brazilians are trained for essential functions connected with operation and maintenance, American personnel are being withdrawn as gradual process and is being worked out by Air Section to complete satisfaction of Brazilian and American commands.
Department’s attention again invited to fact that Brazilian Government has not yet agreed to publicize existence or contents of secret military air base agreement and accordingly foregoing information should be handled with discretion.
- Not printed.↩