Foreign Relations of the United States: Diplomatic Papers, 1944, China, Volume VI

740.0011 P.W./10–2544

Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Chinese Affairs (Vincent)

[Washington,] October 25, 1944.

Memorandum for the President⁹⁷

In connection with the transfer of General Stilwell in response to a complaint made against him by Generalissimo Chiang Kai-shek, the following observations and suggestions are offered for your consideration:

It is believed that any general who might replace General Stilwell will find it extremely difficult to discharge his duties, one of which is maintenance of liaison with the Generalissimo and his staff, unless there is a changed attitude on the part of the Generalissimo and his immediate military subordinates. It is understood that much of General Stilwell’s difficulty can be traced to the uncooperative attitude of General Ho Ying-chin, Minister of War and Chief of Staff. Furthermore, General Ho’s inefficiency and military incompetence have undermined the morale of the Chinese Army and prevented its organization into an effective military force.

There are reports that General Ho might be replaced by General Chang Chih-chung, who, according to those who know him, would be no improvement. He is anti-foreign and is looked upon as a “political” rather than a “military” general. On the other hand, there is General Chen Cheng, who has held high and active military commands and who is regarded as an able and cooperative officer.

In your consideration of the situation described above, it is suggested that, in as much as our sole objective in China from a military viewpoint is close collaboration between American armed forces and Chinese armed forces in bringing about the early defeat of Japan, you may wish to urge that Chiang promptly institute measures to reform and improve his own military command in a manner that will make possible effective collaboration with the American command in China. It is felt that, if you deem it appropriate to communicate with Chiang along the foregoing lines, the communication should be made directly to Chiang as from you using whatever channels you deem suitable.

97. A memorandum by the Director of the Office of Far Eastern Affairs (Grew) to the Under Secretary of State (Stettinius) stated: “We feel strongly that any approach to the Generalissimo along the lines suggested in the attached memorandum should be directly from the President. An indirect approach or an approach on any lower level is, we fear, likely to result in resentment on Chiang’s part and no action. J. C. G.”

    The Under Secretary replied on October 30: “I still feel that we should not bother the President with it this week and it would be best for one of us to have a private talk in the War Department as a first step.

    “On the other hand, if you definitely feel that I should mention it to the President I shall be having meetings with him on urgent top matters within the next few days. ES”.