125.8573/5–1249: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Consul General at Shanghai (Cabot)
Washington, May 17,
1949—5 p. m.
955. Dept considers inadvisable defend against or resist large-scale armed aggression by counter-use firearms (urtel 1611 May 12). Primary purpose arming American civilian and Marine guards inhibit or discourage violation premises. Decision arm American guards left discretion officer in charge. Classified material and equipment should be destroyed when necessary rather than defended.
Acheson