811.2300/66: Telegram
The Ambassador in Japan (Woods) to the Secretary of State
[Received March 6—9:10 a.m.]
46. Department’s telegram no. 33, March 3, 6 p.m. Japanese authorities have promised to send two destroyers to the Kurile Islands for flight which will carry 1,000 gallons gasoline which is about half supply required. Lieutenant Nutt informs me remainder must be carried on a chartered boat. He adds that, assisted by both Japanese authorities and Standard Oil, he has made every effort to get bids on transportation of gasoline to Kuriles and has canvassed thoroughly Japanese shipping firms but on account hazardous nature of the undertaking due to climates in April, May, it is almost impossible to find shipping captain willing to undertake trip. Their attitude is set out in letter from one firm reading: “This journey must be undertaken by those who are prepared to die.” However, a very few bids have finally been received ranging from 18 to 20 thousand yen for the trip.
[Page 244]Thus far Japanese military authorities have been unwilling to consent to Nutt’s proceeding to Kuriles as they say Japanese air service officials will look after all details regarding fueling, landings, etc., as well as provide accommodation on destroyers for American flight officers arriving in aeroplanes.
In view of consistent and insistent reference of Japanese War Office to fact that there is no open port in Kuriles, it is my opinion that they would regard suggestion that Nutt proceed there on United States destroyer with disapproval and suspicion. I understand informal British request for similar privileges already refused.