Office of the Historian

793.94/10840: Telegram

The Commander in Chief of the United States Asiatic Fleet (Yarnell) to the Secretary of State

[Shanghai,] October 26, 1937—4:20 p.m.
[Received October 26—7 a.m.]

0026. Following instructions given Commanding General Second Marine Brigade this date:

“In case of attack on the defense forces or noncombatants in the United States sector by planes of any nationality fire may be opened on such planes in self defense.”

This is an extension of the order already given to vessels of the United States Asiatic Fleet authorizing them to take such action in case of attack.