811.3393/1–1149: Telegram
The Consul at Tsingtao (Strong) to the Secretary of State
[Received January 10—11:42 p. m.]
17. CNO telegram January 9 to ComNavWesPac implies 10-day move of forces ashore to ships imminent. Expect rebase aircraft Cherry Point. Tsingtao Marines Camp Pendleton after 10 to 20 days afloat here. Shanghai Marines remain temporarily. Intent avoid indication Tsingtao to be more prominent anchorage than other China ports.
Although Badger able make 10 day move, much equipment would be abandoned. Thus quietly commencing certain loading enable him comply 10 day move without losses. Still plans retain retreat facilities ashore but probably abandon Edgewater, retention of which would create controversy with local Chinese.
Consulate General plans cancel lease present building, move into port facilities administration building before abandoned by Navy, will move CA [CG?] to same building after Navy withdrawal if Officers’ Club retained by Navy.
Consulate General urgently requires decision reference guards, other employees (remytel 408 to Embassy, repeated Department 2404).
Sent Department, repeated Nanking 18.
- Not printed.↩