America.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXV, Issue 291, 7 December 1914, Page 5

America.

NOT READY FOR WAR. A GENERAL DISCUSSION. United Press Association. Washington, December 5. The United States defences are now agitating Press and politicians. Representatives Fitzgerald and Sherley conferred with the President on the question, expressing "the belief that MiGardner's allegation that New York's defences were inadequate was untrue. Competent army officers believed that New York's defences were able to destroy any attacking fleet. Major Ayleshire informed the House Military Committee that the army was fully supplied for six months, but Lhe militia was not yet fully equipped. Brigadier-General Weaver, in evidence before the House Military Committee, said that 10,000 more men were needed to make the coast defences efficient. The coast guns were obsolete. The forts were built in 1890, and were incapable of resisting siege guns at present in use in Europe. Artillery troops were deficient, owing to the numerous drafts necessary in the Philippines, Costa Rica, and elsewhere.

The American Press professes great alarm at the condition of the land forces. Many doubt whether America would be able to put more than one division in the field if war broke out to-morrow.

Mr Roosevelt is quoted as having recently stated that New York was at the mercy of any foreign foe. Representative Gardner wishes to have a National Security Board formed, consisting of naval and military experts. President Wilson and Mr Daniels, Secretary of the Navy, oppose this.