Office of the Historian

Lot 55D128: Black Book, Tab 126: Telegram

The Commander in Chief, Far East (Ridgway) to the Joint Chiefs of Staff

secret   priority
Tokyo, 31 July 1951—6:45 p. m.

C–68020. This msg in 5 parts. Subject: Armistice Conference at Kaesong 31 July 51.

Part 1. Summary: Meeting consisted of each side offering rebuttals of other sides positions and reaffirming own position. Adm Joy condemned 38th parallel, offered to discuss any proposal regarding zone other than one based on 38th parallel, stated 38th parallel totally unacceptable to the United Nations Command as basis of zone. Nam Il concluded a reiteration of arguments used many times previously with statement that he had no line to offer other than the 38th parallel. Extemporaneous exchanges occurred throughout meeting. Meeting continues tomorrow.

Part 2. Progress: None.

Part 3. Attitude: No significant change.

Part 4. Sequence of events:

[Here follows a lengthy part, consisting mostly of the exchanges between Admiral Joy and Nam Il.]

Part 5. Conclusion: This UNC Delegation feels that no evidence the enemy is ready to shift from his 38th parallel position and I concur.