740.0011 Pacific war/2485: Telegram
The Ambassador in the Soviet Union (Standley) to the Secretary of State
Kuibyshev (Moscow)
May 25,
1942—3 p.m.
[Received 8:50 p.m.]
[Received 8:50 p.m.]
441. Department’s 193, May 2, 6 p.m. Michela and Page18 flew to Penza yesterday to visit the bomber crew and upon returning last night reported to me as follows.
- 1.
- The answers to the Department’s numbered questions are contained in Michela’s telegram number 87, May 24, to the War Department.
- 2.
- The bomber landed at a naval air base about 40 miles from Vladivostok with only enough gasoline left to proceed about 150 miles. It was not fired upon over Soviet territory and no AA defense in the Vladivostok region was noticed. One Soviet fighter rose to intercept it but merely stayed on its tail until it landed. About 20 large seaplanes similar to the American PBY were observed at the naval base.
- 3.
- Although the crew was denied access to the American Consul General at Vladivostok19 its members were accorded courteous and considerate treatment during their sojourn in the Soviet Far East and en route to Penza. They travelled in a private car and arrived at Penza oh May 19 after numerous delays including a 24-hour stopover in Kuibyshev during which they were not permitted to communicate with the Embassy.
- [4.]
- The crew is lodged in a large, clean bungalow surrounded by lawns and gardens in a village about 10 miles from Penza. A second house contains a dining-recreation room and three Soviet companions including an interpreter. Athletic facilities, books, billiards and other distractions are provided; in fact, the Soviet authorities have been most considerate in looking after the crew. The food is better than that obtainable by the Diplomatic Corps in Kuibyshev and the men are accorded about the same freedom of movement as chiefs of mission. They appeared to be in excellent physical and mental condition and stated that they had no complaints as to treatment save that they are urged to eat and drink too much. None has been ill. Since there is reported to be malaria in the region the Embassy will endeavor to [Page 564] supply them with quinine. A Soviet doctor is always available. With the exception of American reading matter, cigarettes and toilet articles, which the Embassy has endeavored to supply, the men state they have no immediate needs.
- 5.
- Michela is taking all necessary steps with regard to pay, allotments and other personal matters including messages to relatives.
Standley