740.0011 P.W./5–645: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Hurley) to the Secretary of State
[Received 9:45 a.m.]
729. Following is summary of M[ilitary] A[ttaché]’s report for week ending May 5:
The enemy drive toward Chihkiang continues. Elements of the 68th and 34th enemy Divisions, operating out of the Chuanhsien–Tungan area, moved toward Chihkiang from the east, while elements of the 116th Division moved on the Yuanling–Chihkiang road from the northeast; with the apparent intention of outflanking the city from two sides.
According to recent reports, the arrival of at least elements of the 47th Division which was formerly stationed in the Shanghai area indicated an increase of enemy strength in Hunan. It was not clear whether these forces would move into other sectors in South China or whether they would remain near Changsha. In this connection, northern Kwangtung was reported to be in the process of being vacated by elements of the 25th Division which was said to be moving into the Swatow–Canton area, and the 47th Division units were possibly destined to replace them. There was as yet no indication whatever as to their future deployment.
Fighting was in progress at several points on the Hupeh–Honan front between the Han Ho (River) and Laohokow, especially at Hsihsiasuchi, a small town located at a strategic point on the road leading to Sian. At Laohokow, Japanese troops again crossed the [Page 101] Han River, and considerable numbers of the enemy had reached the front line.
The airbases at Sian and Chihkiang actively supported ground operations in Honan and Hunan.