793.00/7–1553: Telegram
No. 122
The Ambassador in the Republic of
China (Rankin) to the Department of
State
28. In July 11 meeting with President Chiang, Generals Chase and MacDonald advised using Chinese Air Force and one well-trained and equipped infantry division to defend Ta Ch’en Islands. [Page 229] MacDonald having just returned from inspection of area reported defeatist attitude of commander and staff, low combat efficiency of troops, weak navy support, poor defense planning and lack of weapons made loss of islands certain in event of concerted Communist amphibious attack.
President Chiang questioned advisability attempting hold islands and was told they could be held but reminded that responsibility at present entirely Chinese. President said he had already detailed more aggressive naval commander and he would strengthen staff of present Ta Ch’en command. He appeared reluctant use either Air Force or crack infantry division. Plans were already under way to detail inadequately trained and equipped 13th Division currently less than half strength.
I understand Admiral Radford is seeking extension defense perimeter covered by US Naval and Air Forces to include these offshore islands, retention of which psychologically important to defense of Formosa and strategically significant from standpoint intelligence prediction and anti-Communist guerrilla activities.