893.20 Mission/9–245: Telegram

The Ambassador in China ( Hurley ) to the Secretary of State

1505. For the President.27 After conferences with General Wedemeyer and the Generalissimo I thought it proper to supplement my [Page 547] former wire referring to my telegram No. 1494, September 1, 10 a.m., by a more definite outline of the functions of the American military mission to China as envisioned by both the Generalissimo and Wedemeyer:

1.
Title—The Generalissimo desires that the mission be termed American Military Advisory Group rather than the American Military Mission.
2.
Duration—The Generalissimo would like to arrange for the retention of the mission in China initially for a period of 5 years, at the end of which United States and Chinese Governments would consider its continuation in consonance with requirements of the situation.
3.
Function—To assist and advise Chinese Government in the creation of modern military forces, including air, ground and naval. The Generalissimo states categorically that he desires to adopt American equipment, tactics and techniques as well as organization throughout Chinese Army. He does not visualize large military forces but wants them to be comparable to the best.
4.
Organization—a. American military advisory group commander and headquarters with administrative and strategic planning groups.
b. Ground force section which would assist in training, organizing, instructing and development of equipment for all ground units.
c. Air section which would assist in training, organizing, instructing and development of equipment for all air units.
d. Naval section which would assist in training, organizing, instructing and development of equipment for all naval units.
e. Logistical section which will assist and advise in the organization, training and equipping of supply, transportation and technical development activities for all three above sections.

As stated in my cable above referred to, the Generalissimo respectfully and earnestly requested the appointment of General Wedemeyer as head of the mission or group. If such a mission or group is instituted, I also recommend the appointment of Wedemeyer as its chief officer.

Hurley
  1. Copy transmitted to President Truman by Secretary of State Byrnes with his memorandum of September 3, not printed.