Fleet Upkeep

Your story on the debate over two replacement aircraft carriers for the Navy ((NATION, April 27)) inaccurately reported my position. The article, quoting an October memorandum, implied that I did not support the two-carrier concept. Such a conclusion is simply not correct.

In the October memorandum to the Deputy Secretary of Defense, I furnished my views on the Navy initiative to accelerate aircraft-carrier acquisition by four years. Looking at the carrier proposal in isolation, I noted that it was fiscally sound, but I suggested that we consider the larger picture, as well as the full spectrum of the Navy's programs, before making a final decision. This was done, and my concerns were satisfied.

In my recent testimony before Congress, I made clear that I fully supported the two aircraft carriers, which, rather than adding to the size of the fleet, will replace 1940s- and '50s-vintage ships quickly approaching the end of their service life.

William J. Crowe Jr., Chairman

Joint Chiefs of Staff

Washington

TIME regrets the error.