U.S. Navy Objects To Open Criticism Of Chief’s Policy

Grey River Argus, 20 September 1949, Page 7

U.S. Navy Objects To Open Criticism Of Chief’s Policy

WASHINGTON, September 18

The United States Navy has taken action to curb criticism of the Army and Air Force. A telegram from Mr. Francis Matthews of the Navy went to all commands on Saturday, instructing the officers to clear any observations on policy matters with the secretary. The Associated Press Washington representative says: The message left no doubt that the order has resulted from Captain John Crommelins recent criticism of military Higher Command. Captain Crommelin alleged that Army and Air Force leaders were wrecking American Naval power. Mr. Matthews in the telegram said: “The recent series of public statements, beginning with apd resulting from Captain Crommelin’s statement dash all of which appear to have been inspired largely by apprehensions concerning the future of Naval Aviation —have, from our standpoint of successful unification and the maintenance of harmony among the services, been a source of embarrasment to the Navy Department.” Captain Crommelin was transferred on Friday from his assignment with Joint Chiefs of Staff to a less conspicuous post in the Air Warfare division,