740.0011 P.W./3–2645: Telegram
The Chargé in China (Atcheson) to the Secretary of State
[Received March 26—8:55 a.m.]
504. According to the Military Attaché, the Allied airbase at Laohokow was abandoned on March 25, and as radio communication with it ceased last night it is assumed that field and also the city have been captured by the Japanese.
According to Central News, Japanese forces engaged in Laohokow campaign comprise 4½ divisions plus 1 tank corps. Making due allowance for exaggeration, this would appear to be a disproportionately large force for this operation and has given rise to speculation whether the Japanese may have in mind a much more important objective.