740.0011 P.W./3–2645: Telegram
The Chargé in China (Atcheson) to the Secretary of State
[Received 12:20 p.m.]
502. 1. Following is the Military Attaché’s summary for the week ending March 24:
Chinese military intelligence reports that Japanese troops in Honan are making preparations for a westward drive on Nanyanpu [Nanyang?] and Laohokow, the latter being an important Allied airbase. It is said that the purpose of this drive is to forage for food and to obtain certain much needed supplies. It is quite possible that this is the case, as in the past the Japanese have frequently launched such expeditions with similar intentions into territory under Chinese control. Nevertheless in the present instance the significance of Laohokow as an important airbase and the size of the units which are likely to become involved indicate that this drive will develop into something more than a mere foraging expedition. (Telegram from Sian indicates this drive began on 23d.)
Some 30,000 Japanese troops from down river were reported to have passed through Wuhan area in a southerly direction. It may be that [Page 71] these troops are to be used as strategic reserves as well as to strengthen present garrisons in southeast China. The movement of Japanese troops into new positions continues. The Japanese are still retiring westward from Kiangsi Province, although at a much slower pace.
The air situation in the China theater remains unchanged.
2. Organized resistance in Indochina has largely dissipated, according to American Military Headquarters. French units at Moncay and elsewhere along the border have withdrawn to China. A larger French unit is reported to have centered in Laos where it may attempt to work its way north as the occasion offers.