Marshall Mission Files, Lot 54–D270: Telegram
The Operations Division, War Department General Staff, to the Commanding General, United States Forces, China Theater (Wedemeyer)
War 82089. Reurad, CFB 13529. Confirmation of your decision in reference message has been delayed because of consideration of the China problem by JCS. JCS now considering Planners proposal that SWNCC be queried for political guidance on following:
- a.
- Does this Government’s policy involve continuation of military assistance to Central Government until situation in Manchuria and North China has been stabilized?
- b.
- What is estimate on date for completion of negotiation with Chinese Government on U. S. Military Advisory Group to China?
- c.
- Should Marines come out of China 15 November or await further clarification of the situation?
In the discussion of the proposed SWNCC paper it is pointed out that the original plans for occupation of North China and Manchuria were based on the task of disarming and repatriating the Japanese. It now appears that their major immediate task will be to insure control of areas by the National Government and the forces already moved are being utilized accordingly. Possible Russian interest and intervention in the situation are mentioned as well as the danger to the attainment of U. S. objectives in China if Central Government control of the area is not established.
The Planners have also recommended to the JCS that a message be sent to you directing that the theater not be inactivated until the Advisory Group is established, that Marines be retained pending State’s decision on policy and that meanwhile you carry on in accordance with existing directives.
It is expected that Mr. McCloy will present a paper to SWNCC in the same general vein of the proposed JCS paper. You should expect JCS action in a few days and State action next week.