Marshall Mission Files, Lot 54–D270
President Chiang Kai-shek to President Truman 46
Message From the Generalissimo to the President Dated 17 Feb. 1946
China is urgently in need of shipping and negotiations were initiated with a view to obtaining complete ownership and immediate possession of ships in the Liberty category. My American chief, General Wedemeyer, informs me that six Liberty ships would be made immediately available to be operated in China waters with Chinese crews; however, the United States will retain ownership and the ships will operate under the control of General Wedemeyer in his capacity as Commanding General China Theater. I would appreciate reconsideration, Mr. President, of your government’s decision to retain ownership of these vessels; and request that the Chinese Government be permitted to obtain complete ownership of the six Liberty ships in question either through lend-lease procedure or on a cash basis.
Under General Wedemeyer’s existing directive from the United States Joint Chiefs of Staff, the employment of these ships, if retained under his control, would be greatly restricted. I would appreciate very much if my government would be permitted to purchase outright the six Liberties above referred to and thus be enabled to use these ships in consonance with our projected economy program and for related purposes. I regret troubling you personally; however, this matter is of great importance and I ask your indulgence as well as your assistance in the premises.
- Transmitted to the War Department by General Wedemeyer.↩