795B.00/7–3150: Telegram
The Ambassador in India (Henderson) to the Secretary of State
priority
[Received July 31—8:56 p. m.]
254. 1. Bajpai, SYG MEA told me today he hoped US would not be disappointed at size and composition GOI “token force” for Korea.1 It was contemplated that medical unit would comprise between 200 and 300 persons carefully selected from defense forces who would serve as military contingent in uniform. Among them would be some of best surgeons in India. It was regretted that GOI had no combat units available at present, but hoped medical unit could be of help.
2. I told Bajpai that I was sure GOI contribution would be appreciated. I had had some experience with Indian military doctors and considered that they stood extremely high in their profession.
3. It would be helpful if indication could be made through appropriate channel to GOI of US appreciation of this aid. I regard this contribution as only beginning. Meager as it is, announcement has given rise considerable criticism from Indian press. Decision represents in present atmosphere courageous act on part GOI.
- See U.N. document S/1647, dated July 29, 1950.↩