893.00/12–148: Telegram
The Consul at Tsingtao (Strong) to the Secretary of State
[Received 5:34 p. m.]
193. Re Deptel 173, November 30, 6 p. m. Following is mytel 353, November 28, noon, to Embassy, Nanking.
“Movement of local Sino Army troops out of Tsingtao perimeter in progress last 3 days expected be completed today with attainment very limited objectives:
- (1)
- Seizing and holding peninsula, now in Communist hands, across bay from Tsingtao to west.
- (2)
- Seizure of food and other supplies in Chiaohsien and points along west coast Kiaochow Bay.
- (3)
- Exercising new troops operations smooth to date with few casualties. Three divisions committed. One to occupy peninsula. Second to create diversion to north toward Nantsin. Third in reserve. Following occupation peninsula regulars are to complete fortifications and then to withdraw by water to be replaced by PPC78 troops transported by water. Supply thereafter will be by boat across bay. No intention retain possession Chiaohsien west coast of bay.
This move under direct command General Liu An-chi who probably wishes avoid gaining reputation as do-nothing. Also useful in giving employment to otherwise idle troops. Opposed only by few local Communist troops. Liu probably not in position undertake large scale activity since undesirable attract Communist attention this area and might effect entry from Communist hinterland of supplies badly needed Tsingtao.”
All troops returned within perimeter by November 29 except those remaining garrison peninsula. Chiaohsien abandoned. Foraging believed to have netted little. Movement of persons abandoned and goods across lines broken off for several days.
- Peace Preservation Corps.↩