393.115/12–1649: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Korea (Muccio)
1058. Dept understands Isbrandtsen vessel Flying Arrow sailed from Manila 0830 hours Dec 12 cleared for Okinawa, Pusan, Taku Bar [Page 1187] and Shanghai. Upon vessel’s arrival Pusan, request Master Flying Arrow be handed full text fol:
“The Department of State has issued the following announcement which has been transmitted to all shipping companies, ship operators and ship masters via the Hydrographic Office and the Maritime Comm.
‘On November 28, 1949 the Sir John Franklin, a US flag ship, while proceeding to the port of Shanghai was subjected to a barrage of fire from two Chinese naval vessels in the lower estuary of the Yangtze, damaging the vessel and seriously endangering life aboard it. Although the vessel was permitted to leave Shanghai unmolested, the Chinese National Government stated that the fact that the vessel was so permitted to leave should not be regarded as a precedent.
The Department of State must point out that the port of Shanghai and its approaches constitute a zone of danger and the conditions in it are such as to render this area extremely hazardous to shipping. In view of this situation, it is obvious that American lives and property should not be exposed to such risks and all masters of United States flag vessels are warned accordingly.’”
In addition Emb is instructed to accompany the delivery of the general warning with the following written statement for the Master to be delivered by a Consular Officer in the presence of witnesses:
“At the direction of the Secretary of State, I am instructed to inform you that the Coast Guard has advised that violation of this warning will render licenses of Masters of United States flag vessels liable to action under R. S. Section 4450.”
Hydro Office and Maritime Commission circulating above quoted general warning all Amer ship owners, operators, and Masters. Advise Dept immed when delivery effect.
Pls pass this msg to Pusan.