893.00/5–2147: Telegram
The Consul General at Mukden (Ward) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 22—8:55 a.m.]
69. Following is military situation Changchun based on observation ESD on reconnaissance flight May 20. Withdrawal been effected. (ReContel 112, May 20.9) Changchun being defended by thin defensive circle which at places is within city limits and excludes both north and west airfields. One airfield still ostensibly in National hands but Communists so close use of airfield dangerous.
[Page 137]Evacuation US personnel by heavy planes possible by removing power lines on boulevard near city zoo. Apparently impossible for Nationals reinforce Changchun immediately because Communists have cut and hold rail line from point 43–48 north 125–9 to point 43–26 north 124. Communists aware critical railway cross ties shortage and have removed and are burning ties between points mentioned.
Bridges at Fanchiatun and Kungchuling were burning afternoon May 20. These bridges were formerly destroyed by Communists but Nationals jacked steel girders up on crosstie cribs and cribs now being destroyed. Railroad station at Fanchiatun burning afternoon May 20. All above railway points seemed held by small Communist units probably platoons except Kungchuling where Communists observed in greater strength.
NECC has advised ESD sources they estimate present Changchun garrison can hold city without reinforcements another 2 weeks.
Sent to Nanking as 114; repeated Department as 69, Changchun as 27.
- Sent to the Department as No. 67, May 20, 8 p.m., not printed.↩