893.00/7–2949: Telegram
The Vice Consul at Chungking (McGeary) to the Secretary of State
[Received July 30—3:55 a. m.]
124. From Strong. Lt. General Wang Ling-yuen preparing leave here early August with 100 staff members technicians, 10 radio sets, etc., to organize resistance force in southwest Honan. Has received reports from that area stating 100,000 men have arms and twice as many more anxious join guerrilla forces. Reports claim Communists not directly control over 20 hsien southwest Honan where people have killed over 1,000 Communist political commissars and Communist soldiers sent to punish people for killings.
Wang plans organize armed group, then request ammunition and rifles by air drop. Expects disrupt Communist rear and coordinate with Nationalist activities at front. Eventually hopes begin recapture cities. Has been appointed head Military and Political Officer of Nationalist Government southwest Honan.
Nationalist official[s] here hope Wang’s mission will disrupt Communists’ plans, give morale to people under Nationalist Government and thus enable come-back which would entitle Nationalist Government to US aid. If Wang successful, believe other Nationalist generals and leaders will return to home areas organize similar movements.
Despite fact Wang requested secrecy when revealing plans, he produced calling cards printed with Honan titles. Also is taking large group and has several hundred other Honan refugees on waiting list. Such numbers bound to create discussion and general knowledge of plans, thus jeopardizing mission. Also probably unwise take back officials who ran away from Communists [in] view fact new local leadership will have arisen.
Sent Department, repeated Nanking 133, OffEmb Canton 74, [Strong].