795.00/4–2952: Telegram
No. 561
The Supreme Commander, Allied Powers
(Ridgway) to
the Department of the Army
priority
C 67454. A. Following receipt of notification of the termination of the post of Supreme Commander for the Allied Powers which I have held by authority of the President since 11 April 1951, I have issued orders eff 2230 hours 28 April 1952, for the inactivation of Gen Hqs, Supreme Commander for the Allied Powers, and all its appointive agency. Admin disposition of records and property and release of remaining assigned personnel will proceed with dispatch.
B. In closing this historic operation I wish to express my sincere gratitude to the DA, the JCS, and the Secretary of Defense for their unfailing support and guidance throughout my tenure of office. I also take this opportunity to commend the many men and women, military and civilian, who have served in the occupation of Japan. By their integrity, loyalty, devotion to dy and exemplary conduct, they have helped to write a unique chapter in the annals of the US military establishment and in the history of US Foreign Relations. In so doing, they have helped to establish a firm foundation for a structure of enduring friendship and cooperation between the peoples of Japan and the US.
C. In case parts of this message are to be used in Wash ceremony, for your info Tokyo release of related actions will be at 28 April, 1400I.