Hong Kong

Abstract

This was the decided view expressed by General Patrick Hurley, the American ambassador to China on 9 August 1945. It was compatible with the official American policy to boost the Koumin-tang prestige and to impress upon the Chinese people that they were an integral part of the Allies’ victory over Japan. It was in accordance with this policy that Chiang Kai-shek was asked by the American Secretary of State to notify him of the designation of the officer he wished to act as his representative in the acceptance of the surrender of Japan along with the Supreme Commander for the Allied Powers, General Douglas MacArthur.² Chiang Kai-shek was likewise informed that MacArthur would direct the Japanese Imperial General Headquarters to have the Japanese forces in China (other than those opposing the Russians in Manchuria) surrender unconditionally to him, or to his subordinate commanders.3

In view of imminent possibility of surrender of Japan, I am advised that American Staff has designated two American officers to accept surrender. No reference is made to the participation of China or the Generalissimo in receiving surrender. I recommend that the Generalissimo or his designated military representative be invited to be present and participate in receiving the surrender of Japan. To do otherwise after China’s 8 years of war against Japan would be injurious to China’s prestige in Asia.¹