Editorial Note
In the course of its 183d meeting held February 4, 1954, the National Security Council discussed issues relating to the Republic of China. At the end of this discussion the Council took Action No. 1029, of which subparagraph (b) reads: “Requested the Department of Defense to review and report to the Council on U.S. strategy for developing a position of military strength in the Far East.” (S/S–NSC (Miscellaneous) files, lot 66 D 95)
There follows a passage from the memorandum of discussion at the meeting which is pertinent to NSC Action No. 1029–b:
“With regard, however, to the specific recommendation for a review of Formosa policy and force levels, Secretary Wilson recommended that this review be expanded to include the whole Pacific area. There were many problems in connection with Japan and the Philippines, and we must decide just how much we wish to invest [Page 386] in this area. Over the long haul, said Secretary Wilson, he didn’t hold much with our policy toward Formosa.
“Secretary Humphrey said that he strongly supported Secretary Wilson’s opinion, and as for himself, he simply did not understand the nature of U.S. objectives in the Far East.” (Eisenhower Library, Eisenhower papers, Whitman file)
For more information on the discussion of the Republic of China at this meeting and on NSC Action No. 1029, see volume XIV.