822.34/851/9
The Secretary of the Navy (Knox) to the Secretary of State
(SC) L11–7/EF23
Serial 047212
Sir: Referring to the subject of the transfer of two United States Naval patrol vessels of the yacht type to the Government of Ecuador, I am enclosing herewith a copy of a proposed agreement14 between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of the Republic of Ecuador regarding this transfer, and, also a copy of a sample letter14 for the information of the Ecuadoran Ambassador in preparing a request to the President of the United States for the transfer of the two vessels under the provisions of Public Law 11.15
It is noted that the Government of Ecuador not only desires to acquire the two vessels, but also desires that a sufficient number of United States Naval personnel remain on board the vessels, after they have been transferred, to train and instruct the crew in the operation and upkeep of the vessels.
[Page 261]It is also noted that, at present, Ecuador possesses practically no Naval resources and it is apparent that, unless a small Naval Base, capable of making minor repairs, can be obtained by Ecuador, the ships transferred will deteriorate rapidly.
The proposed agreement, therefore, has been prepared not only to cover the details of the transfer of the vessels and the status of the United States Naval personnel remaining on board, but also for the acquisition of a small Naval Base for the operation and upkeep of the vessels transferred.
Respectfully,