Foreign Relations of the United States, Diplomatic Papers, 1941, The Far East, Volume V

740.0011 Pacific War/1585

The Commanding General, United States Army Forces in the Far East (MacArthur), to the War Department ⁸⁹

Fort Mills, P. I., December 28, 1941—3:28 p.m.

Enemy has again mercilessly bombed the open city of Manila, using 63 bombers today. Damage has been severe and includes all types of civilian installations, such as churches, the cathedral, hospitals, convents, business and private dwellings. It is notable that before Manila was declared an open city and before our antiaircraft defense evacuated therefrom he had abstained from attempted bombing of anything in Manila except military installations. His present actions can only be deemed completely violative of all the civilized processes of international law. At the proper time I bespeak due retaliatory measures.

MacArthur

89. Copy of telegram received by the War Department on December 28, 4:31 a.m.; noted by the Secretary of State.