390.1115A/11–2344: Telegram
The Chargé in China (Atcheson) to the Secretary of State
[Received 11:55 p.m.]
1887. In light of military situation southeast China, Embassy recently suggested to Consulate General [at] Kunming that it consider plans for withdrawal American civilian personnel in Kweiyang area and any place likely to be threatened or cut off by present Jap drives. We are now telegraphing specific instructions to Consulate General to take action suggested and urge Americans to withdraw from appropriate places, including Yuanling, Hunan, and to warn them that they may not expect United States Air Force assistance because planes are needed for urgent military purposes. This step seems advisable in order (1) to ensure safety of Americans concerned and (2) to relieve United States Army of later requests for assistance. Understood British Embassy taking similar action vis-à-vis its nationals in affected areas. Military Attaché has recommended withdrawal United States civilians from Kunming but we feel that there is yet no need for, and there are strong reasons against taking, such drastic action at this time.
Generals Hurley and Wedemeyer are being kept fully informed. They concur in action.