893.20/7–2549: Telegram
The Minister-Counselor of Embassy in China (Clark) to the Secretary of State
[Received 9:49 p. m.]
Cantel 815, As further evidence bankruptcy present leadership and desperate situation government is decision Cabinet taken July 23, reported to me by Chu Chang-wei, approving creation “foreign legion” as vehicle for enlistment Americans, Japanese or others. Chu said Chennault already had large number volunteer airmen.
Believe lack of funds will prevent implementation idea but nevertheless told Chu he could be sure US Government would prevent, to the extent possible, enlistment Americans in proposed legion. I pointed out differences between war against Japan and present conflict which, despite its international aspects, is in fact civil war.
Sent Department; repeated Nanking 541, Shanghai 459, Taipei 78.