893.00/9–2048: Telegram
The Consul General at Tsingtao (Turner) to the Secretary of State
[Received September 21—1:56 a. m.]
142. Reference Tsinan battle, Commies reported within 2 miles of city wall to East, meaning they are inside main defense line that area. On South, Commies have captured hill which enables them infiltrate and fire on old and new airfields. CAT14 withdrew planes to Tsingtao morning September 18, continues render support to them. Last CAT flight left Tsinan morning September 18 under small arms fire.
That there has been real fighting is witnessed by long lines wounded and trucks bearing dead seen returning to city. Disorganization apparent among National forces on first 2 days now claimed overcome. CAT native staff Tsinan asserts population believes Commie victory inevitable, thus hope will come soon and without destruction. Up to 8 Commie columns in attacking force with perhaps 2 in reserve. Few grounds for optimism unless Wang Yao-wu15 assumes offensive. This should be possible view ample supply ammunition and minor disparity in strengths of defending and attacking. Nationalists have 2d, 73d and 84th Divisions and 19th and 57th Brigades, totaling around 80,000 men, plus 40 to 50,000 local troops in very restricted perimeter. Commies probably numerically superior by only one-third.
Sudden cessation air service Tsinan prevents departure of the few foreign residents desirous of leaving. Americans number eight. List names follows in separate message,16 Presume Embassy has seen ComNavWesPacs17 conference 190631Z.18
[Page 465]Sent Nanking 269; repeated Department 142.