740.00116 EW/9–2044
The Secretary of State to the British Ambassador (Halifax)
The Secretary of State presents his compliments to His Excellency the British Ambassador and has the honor to refer to the apparent policy of the German Government of treating parachutists falling into its hand as francs tireurs.
Reports which the American Government has received from the Supreme Headquarters, Allied Expeditionary Force, indicate that atrocities have been committed against Special Air Services Troops. It is understood that these airborne troops are made up of American and British personnel and that the British personnel are in the majority.
The Government of the United States is considering addressing a strong protest to the German Government with respect to the mistreatment of these soldiers. Before doing so it would be interested in knowing whether the British Government would join in like action with regard to this matter.