Lot 55D128: Black Book, Tab 70: Telegram
The Commander in Chief, Far East (Ridgway) to the Joint Chiefs of Staff
operational immediate
CX–59176. Re your 89172.1
1. I consider the securing of data on UNC and ROK prisoners of war held by the Communists to be an absolutely essential step to any further discussion on item 4. Before any reasonable agreements can be reached and in order to assure UNC the very minimum of safeguards for the return of UNC and ROK pers in en hands it is vital that we have names, by nationality, or at the least, numbers by nationality, with locations in either case.
2. The Communists, in the initial discussion of 11 Dec 51 on agenda item 4 termed the exchange of POW data as “technical matter” to be furnished contingent on UNC acceptance of their proposal that both sides release all POW held by them after signing of the armistice. Our agreement to this proposal would release all POW’s we hold, without knowing that any of ours remain in Communist hands—an unthinkable bargain.
3. I propose to insist that, prior to further discussion on the details of exchange, the Communists furnish us with this data. I anticipate determined opposition to this proposal.
4. Accordingly, recommend that I be given authority soonest to issue an ultimatum to the Communists to the effect that we will not proceed with discussions of item 4 until lists of prisoners and their locations have been exchanged.
5. Additional comments on JCS 89172 will follow.