Lot 55D128: Black Book, Tab 166: Telegram
The Commander in Chief, Far East (Ridgway) to the Joint Chiefs of Staff
priority
C–60404. For info CINCUNC Adv HNC 679.
“1. Sub-delegation on item nbr 4 pressed all day for data on POW’s as yet unaccounted for. Near close of session Lee indicated that the Communists would, in exchange for additional data from UNC to constitute a full report on all POW’s held throughout the war, provide similar data. He stated it would not mean that there would be any increase in the number of prisoners now held which has been accurately reported. He indicated further that the new data would be incomplete because of the absence of records and due to their destruction in the war. No other significant developments.
“2. Sub-delegations on item nbr 4 scheduled to meet at 1100 hours 30 Dec.
“Comment: Tomorrow UNC will attempt to get agreement to restoration of former ROKA soldiers to POW status as an end in itself and as a means of getting a clearer statement from the Communists on individual self-determination in connection with the incorporation of these former POW’s into the NKPA. Success in the former is not anticipated but the latter will support a position which the UNC intends to advance later. If appropriate the question of exchange of UN civilians under POW exchange will be raised and, depending on Communist reaction, possibly the question of ROK civilians. Signed Joy.”