892.00/8–1046: Telegram

The Minister in Siam (Stanton) to the Secretary of State

secret

928. 1. In view of reports that an uprising was in progress in Angkor-Siemreap area of Cambodia, Military and Naval Attachés61 flew up there yesterday. They were informed by French military and civil officials whom they contacted that 4[00] to 500 “rebels” composed of Cambodians, Annamites, Japanese and Siamese attacked and occupied town of Siemreap 3 days ago but withdrew after 2 hours. Colonel Vance and Commander Gardes saw evidences of the attack but damage to property appeared light. French rushed troops to area from Saigon and appeared expect further trouble.

2. French officials charged that force which attacked Siemreap and which they claimed was still in vicinity was under Siamese leadership. Attachés were not in position to determine veracity of this accusation. They may return to area next week by arrangement French authorities but in any event will endeavor follow developments and carefully evaluate all information and reports.

Repeated Saigon as 13.

Stanton
  1. Col. Reginald F. C. Vance and Comdr. Alfred W. Gardes, respectively.