893.20 Missions/4–2546: Telegram

The Acting Secretary of State to the Ambassador in the Soviet Union (Smith)

1111. Provided Emb perceives no objection it should reply to Vyshinski letter (Embtel 1327, Apr 25) substantially as follows:

Chinese Govt in Sept 1945 asked assistance of American military personnel in training and reorganization of Chinese armed forces. During World War II a limited number of such forces had already been trained, armed and equipped from American resources for anti-Japanese operations. In Mar 1946 there began to assemble at Nanking a small group of American officers and enlisted personnel, selected for Advisory Mission from among those released by demobilization of American armed forces in China. Since that date other officers and enlisted personnel have reported for duty from time to time. Although preparation and planning are underway in China, formal activation of project is awaiting conclusion of formal agreement with Chinese authorities. Meantime officers and enlisted personnel already assembled for Mission now employed to aid General Marshall in his effort to terminate hostilities in China.

“Projected Military Advisory Group is being organized to assist in training staff officers and personnel in service schools and academies and to advise higher staffs in organization training matters. This joint Army-Navy group will be limited to number required to perform functions outlined above. According to present plans Group will not exceed 1000 officers and men including naval personnel.”

Acheson