“I point out the necessity of strictest secrecy once more.” (2261-PS)
Underneath von Blomberg’s signature is an indorsement, “Berlin, 3 September 1935; No. 1820/35 L Top Secret II a. To Defense-Economic Group G-3, copy transmitted (signed) Jodl.” (2261-PS)
Attached to this letter is the statute referred to as the Reich’s Defense Law of 21 May 1935, enacted by the Reichscabinet. The law covers in detail preparations for a state of defense, mobilization, and appointment of the Plenipotentiary-General for War Economy (Schacht) with plenipotentiary authority for the economic preparation of the war. Part III provides for penalties. The law is signed, “The Fuehrer and Reichschancellor, Adolf Hitler; the Reichsminister of War, von Blomberg; the Reichsminister of the Interior, Frick.” At the bottom of it there is this note:
“Note on the law for the defense of the Reich of 21 May 1935.
“The publication of the law for the defense of the Reich of 21 May 1935 will be suspended. The law became effective 21 May 1935.
“The Fuehrer and Reichschancellor, Adolf Hitler.” (2261-PS)
Thus, although the publication itself stated the law was made public, and although the law became effective immediately, publication was suspended by Adolf Hitler.
There was also further attached to von Blomberg’s letter a copy of the decision of the Reichscabinet of 21 May 1935 on the Council for the Defense of the Realm. This decree deals largely with organization for economic preparation for the war. This law of May 1935 was the cornerstone of war preparations of the Nazi conspirators, and makes clear the relationship of Schacht to this preparation. (2261-PS)
B. Formulation and Execution of Plans to Invade Austria and Czechoslovakia.
The next phase of aggression was the formulation and execution of plans to attack Austria and Czechoslovakia, in that order.