Marshall Mission Files, Lot 54–D270: Telegram
Lieutenant General John E. Hull 5 to General Marshall
96477. Informally from the Navy Department it is learned that they are sending a message to you6 explaining the Navy Department bill for the Naval Advisory Group to China and the transfer of naval vessels to China. This bill has been reported to the floor of the House where Mr. Martin7 indicates he contemplates open discussions on the matter. Navy recognizes implications which may result in connection with your mission.
The following is the status of Advisory Group matter as now being processed through channels of JC/S to State and the President:
Information was received today from Admiral Cooke8 recommending an initial Naval Advisory Group of 165 personnel and the planners thereupon sent forward to the JC/S today a proposed reply to Mr. Byrnes’ letter to SWNCC9 on the subject of giving a further explanation of the Advisory Group as requested by Mr. Byrnes and recommending that it be set up at once by the President under his war powers with an authorization for the Army of 750 personnel initially and for the Navy of 165 personnel initially. It is recognized that legislation would be required eventually for both Army and Navy components of the Advisory Group which naturally should be on the same basis legislatively.
The Navy bill was initiated by the Navy Department as a separate matter to the JC/S action, without War Department coordination, for the purpose of obtaining the necessary Congressional authority to transfer naval ships to a foreign power. The matter of the Navy Advisory Group was included in the bill. From informal information available, it appears that Congressional discussion turns around the wide latitude in the wording of the bill with reference to transfer of naval ships. This message is for your information.