Marshall Mission Files, Lot 54–D270: Telegram
The Secretary of the Navy (Forrestal) to General Marshall
282148Z. From information available to me it appears that General Rockey’s efforts alone will not bring about expeditious relief of Marine detachments on outpost and guard duty. Am deeply apprehensive that recurrence of incidents involving attacks on dispersed [Page 873] groups of Marines will lead to an aroused public opinion here exerting significant pressure to withdraw all Marines from China. In view of above believe notification to Chinese Government that it is intended to relieve Marines from mine, rail and bridge guard duties and concentrate at selected locations as indicated in ComSeventh Fleets 230318Z51 at an early date would accomplish our desired purpose. I should appreciate your advice and comments.
- Telegram of August 23, not printed.↩