Atlanta semi-weekly journal. (Atlanta, Ga.) 1898-1920, 1916-03-14
Funston to Direct
Troops From Border

SAN ANTONIO, Tex, March Eth
structed by the war department at
Washington that he is not to personally
command the troops that will cross the
Rio Grande into Mexico to search for
Francisco Villa, Major General Freder-
ick Funston today was completing de-
tails of the expedition and for the safe
guarding of the entire Mexican border.
During the day the general conferred
frequently with his stan at Fort Sam
Houston. southern department head
quarters. A close censorship was estab-
lished, however, on proceedings All
announcements were made by General
Funston himself.
From General Funston came this in
formation: ...... L..
THAT an officer subordinate to him, a
brigadier general, would command the
punitive expedition.
THAT this officer would have complete
charge in the field and would not be
hampered by unnecessary instructions.
That 1t would take two or three days
to organize the force or forces that will
go in pursuit of Villa.
THAT the First aero squadron, sta
toned at Fort Sam Houston, will be
part of the expeditionary force.
THAT a close watch will be kept at
all border points for any symptoms of
disorder that will necessitate the
movement of troops"
General Funston, for military pur-
poses, refused to state how large the
expeditionary force would be; the time
when the forward movement would
start; whether there would be one or
several forces; and the point or points at
which the Rio Grande would be crossed
when the search began.
1t was known yesterday that General
Funston was willing to personally lead
the force searching for Villa.
FUNSTON DIRECTS OPERATIONS.
1t was explained here, however, that
the war department Thought it best to
keep General Funston at southern de-
partment headquarters, where he would
be in touch with and could direct the
entire border situation.
If there should be more than one eX-
peditionary force the common direction
will fall to General Funston.
The movement of troops from depart
ments other than that commanded by
! General Funston toward the border al
ready has been initiated, it is under
stood. The amalgamation of scattered
fragments of regiments, transportation,
the equipment of the commissary and
other details would require, it was esti-
mated by the general, at least two, and
probably three, days.
The utmost secrecy regarding their
exact destination will be maintained.
General Funston has insisted on this
precaution to the war department, in
order that Villa may be kept as much
in the dark as possible.
Army officers at Fort Sam Houston
believe the border is infested with Mex
leans friendly to Villa who will do a.A
in their power to keep him informed.
Army officers are intensely interested
in the part the First aero squadron will
play in the pursuit. No American aero
squadron ever before has had actual mill
itary service. Machines were sent to
Vera Cruz and there has been aerial
scouting done along the border, but this
is the first real test of the fourth arm"
OF the service.
1t is not known when the squadron
will leave San Antonio Weather condi-
tions are now perfect for flying, and 1t
is thought that the start of the Journey
will not be delayed any longer than is
necessary.