The Persian Gulf Command (PGC) was a United States Army logistics formation active during World War II. Established on 24 September 1942, the command was created to administer and protect the “Persian Corridor,” a vital supply route through Iran used to transport Lend‑Lease aid from the United States and Britain to the Soviet Union.
Organization and Structure
- The PGC operated under the Army Services of Supply (later the Army Service Forces).
- Its headquarters were initially located in Tehran, Iran, and later moved to the coastal city of Bushire (now Bushehr).
- The command coordinated closely with British Middle East Command, the Iranian government, and Soviet representatives to manage the movement of materiel via rail, road, and sea.
Mission and Activities
- Oversaw the receipt of cargo at Persian Gulf ports such as Bandar Abbas and the onward transport of supplies—primarily vehicles, ammunition, food, and fuel—to Soviet depots in the north.
- Managed construction and improvement of transport infrastructure, including the Trans‑Iranian Railway, highways, and airfields, to increase throughput capacity.
- Provided security for convoys and facilities against sabotage and Axis espionage activities.
Command Leadership
The command was led by senior U.S. Army officers; the first commander was Major General Raymond A. Wheeler, who later attained the rank of lieutenant general. Subsequent commanders continued the logistical mission until the end of the war.
Operational Significance
Between 1942 and 1945 the Persian Gulf Command facilitated the delivery of an estimated 5 million tons of Lend‑Lease material to the USSR, contributing substantially to the Soviet war effort on the Eastern Front.
Disbandment
Following the conclusion of hostilities in Europe and the reduction of Lend‑Lease shipments, the Persian Gulf Command was deactivated in late 1945. Its responsibilities and remaining assets were transferred to other U.S. Army and civilian agencies operating in the region.
Legacy
The infrastructure and cooperative agreements established under the Persian Gulf Command laid groundwork for post‑war U.S. military and economic engagement in the Middle East.