793.94/16224: Telegram
The Consul General at Hong Kong (Southard) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 14—9:46 a.m.]
387. Following from Kunming: October 13, 7 p.m. The northern section of Kunming was heavily bombed today shortly after 2 p.m. by a squadron of 27 planes. Several bombs fell dangerously near the Consulate, one hitting no more than 50 yards to north of office. No [Page 903] one was in our compound at time but heavy concussion was evidenced by the breaking of several window panes, a large mirror in the residence, shaking of plaster and dirt from walls; five sections of wooden ceiling of entrance portico fell.
Several buildings of Yunnan University and of Southwest Associated University within the city were hit. The residence of Colonel Chennault was largely destroyed and there was widespread destruction in the northern residential section. No other damage to Americans is known. An additional six dive bombers participated in the raid, attack being centered on the cotton mills south of town, but reportedly without further serious damage.
Please repeat to Chungking and Peiping.