Documents of the Boxer RebellionDocuments of the Boxer Rebellion
HEADQUARTERS U.S. MARINE CORPS,
Washington, D.C., September 29, 1900.
The
conditions in China having become such as to require the presence
there of American troops to protect the lives and property of
Americans, 6 officers and 101 enlisted men were, on June 14, 1900,
detached from the First Regiment of Marines at the naval station,
Cavite, P.I., and sent on board the U.S.S. Newark for transportation
to Taku, China. This detachment arrived off Taku on June 18, and
was joined by a small detachment of 2 officers and 30 enlisted
men sent forward from Cavite in the U.S.S. Nashville. The
officers of these detachments were as follows: Maj. L.W.T. Waller,
commanding; First Lieuts. S.D. Butler, Henry Leonard, George C.
Reid, R.F. Wynne, W.G. Powell, A.E.Harding, and Second Lieut.
Wade L. Jolly.
Major
Waller's total force, therefore, consisted of 8 officers and 132
enlisted men. Under instructions from the rear-admiral commanding
to land and cooperate with the powers in the forward movement
for the relief of the besieged city of Tientsin, Major Waller
and his force landed on the 19th of June and proceeded to within
a short distance of Tong-Ku, moving to that place on the morning
of June 20. The marine force was armed with a 3-inch field piece
and a Colt automatic gun. A train having been constructed, as
Major Waller states, with the very valuable assistance of Capt.
F. M. Wise, of the U.S.S. Monacacy, the track was repaired
and communication opened to a point about 18 miles from Tong-Ku
and about 12 miles from Tientsin. Major Waller joined a Russian
force of about 400 men at a point about 12 miles from Tientsin,
and finding the road impassable, bivouacked there for the night,
with the understanding that the position would be held until reenforcements
arrived. Major Waller in his report states that at 2 o'clock in
the morning the Russian colonel informed him that he would push
on with his 400 men and attempt to get into Tientsin, and aid
in the defense of the city. Major Waller objected to this, considering
it impossible to pass the Chinese force with only 530 men, but
being overruled in council his force joined the Russians in an
early morning advance on Tientsin on June 21.
The
3-inch rifle proving defective, it was disabled and rolled into
the river. In the 12-mile march to Tientsin the Russian column
was in advance, 400 strong, with the colt gun and marine crew,
commanded by First Lieut. W.G. Powell, U.S. M.C., in their front.
The advance continued without opposition until 7 a.m., when the
column reached a point opposite the imperial arsenal, and a small
flank fire was opened by the enemy, which was quickly silenced
by the marine sharpshooters. Ten minutes later the Chinese opened
a very heavy front and flank fire from 1,500 to 2,000 men intrenched.
Major Waller deployed his force, and the flank fire becoming very
heavy, turned to the left and rear confronting a flank movement,
the marine line then having its front advanced and right flank
refused. This position was held for some time by the marines,
until the Russian force began to fall back and form on their right
at a distance of one-half mile, which movement again brought the
fire of the enemy on the marines' left flank. The support of the
Colt gun having dwindled to two men, and the gun having jammed
several times, all the crew having been shot down but one, Lieutenant
Powell, "very properly," as Major Waller remarks, decided
to abandon the gun, which he did after disabling it. Major Waller
says that at this point he received notice that the Russians would
retreat to a point about 4 miles beyond, the bivouac of the night
before, and he therefore began his retreat, moving by the right
flank and keeping up a fight for four hours with the enemy, who
were following in force. The wounded were brought back by hand,
but the dead had to be left. The marines reached their base at
2 p.m., having marched 30 miles and fought for five hours. The
casualties were 4 killed and 9 wounded.
At
5 p.m. the same day (June 21) a force of English and Russians
arrived, and Major Waller decided to act in cooperation with the
British under the command of Commander Craddock, R.N. The following
day an advance was made as far as possible by the railroad and
an encampment established for the night. The combined force at
this time amounted to about 2,000 men, of whom 1,000 were Russians,
and the rest English, German, American, Italian, and Japanese,
the strength of the troops being in the order named, the British
having about 600 men. It was decided that the advance should commence
about 4 o'clock the next morning, and should be in two columns,
the marines occupying the advance of the British column and the
right of the firing line. The enemy was encountered about 7 a.m.,
and driven steadily by the advancing troops until about 12.30
p.m., when the combined forces entered Tientsin, relieving the
besieged Europeans, the loss for the day being 1 killed and 3
wounded. The next morning (June 25) an advance was made to the
relief of Vice-Admiral Seymour, Captain McCalla, and the men of
the powers who had been forced back from their march on Pekin
and intrenched at a point about 8 miles from Tientsin. The force
met little opposition, and relieved the besieged at noon, the
casualties of the relieving force being 2 wounded from shell fire
and 1 from bullet wounds.
The
combined troops encamped for the night of the of the 25th, crossing
the river from the arsenal, where the besieged force had been
relieved, and the next day returned to Tientsin with the sick
and wounded of the besieged, and Major Waller was left in command
of the combined force of American seaman and marines. On June
27 the Russians took the imperial arsenal, which the Russians
and Americans had failed to take previously, and in response to
a request for reenforcements Major Waller sent 40 marines, under
command of Second Lieut. Wade L. Jolly, U.S.M.C., with First Lieut.
A.E. Harding, U.S.M.C., as a volunteer, and placed the whole command
under command of Commander Craddock, RN. This force was about
1,800 strong and armed with six guns, and it succeeded in driving
the enemy from their fortifications. It appeared that the enemy
had about 7,000 men at this point. Major Waller says the marines,
led by Lieutenant Jolly, charged over the parapet with a British
company, being the first in this part of the fight. The marines
suffered 1 wounded, and Lieutenant Jolly overcome by the heat,
"but not," as Major Waller states, "until he had
brought his men back to their quarters." Lieutenant Harding
captured a flag from the enemy.
In his report of June 28, 1900, Major Waller says:
Our men have marched 97 miles in 5 days, fighting all the way. They have lived on about one meal a day for six days, and have been cheerful and willing always.
Of the officers under his command he says:
I have to earnestly recommend to your notice , for such reward as you may deem proper, the following officers: Lieut. S.D. Butler, for the admirable control of his men in all the fights of the week; for saving a wounded man at the risk of his own life, and under a very severe fire. Lieut. A.E.Harding, for conspicuous gallantry in action; for saving wounded at the risk of his life, under a heavy fire. Second Lieut. W.L. Jolly, for the same risk, and for leading a fine charge over two parapets in the face of a heavy fire. First Lieut. Henry Leonard for saving life under fire, and for admirable control and direction of the fire. First Lieutenant Powell for working and managing the Colt gun under a fierce fire and without support, after the crew had been shot down. First Lieutenant Wynne, for his steadfast courage and encouragement of his men.
In another report of the same date to the second in command of the United States naval force on the Asiatic Station, Major Waller says concerning Lieutenant Jolly:
The reports of Mr. Jolly's conduct are most flattering and they come in from all sides. This is the second time I have had occasion to make special mention of this young officer during the week.
Major Waller also speaks in the highest terms of the enlisted
men in his command, saying that he can not do them justice. In
a later report, to which reference is made below, he gives the
names of the men entitled to special commendation. In this report
Major Waller expresses his gratitude for the aid rendered by the
English surgeons in caring for the sick and wounded on the field
and in the hospital. In this connection he mentions especially
Surg. Robley H.J. Browne, R.N., of H.M.S. Alacrity.
Major Waller gives the following list of casualties up to the
date of his report of June 28, 1900:
Killed.--Corpl. J.F. Lannigan; Privates J. K. Miller, H. Norris, Edward Provensal, J. Hunter.
Wounded.--Serious.--Corpl. Lloyd Hetrick, hand; Privates C.H. Carter, C.C. Smith. Slight.--Corpl. Thomas Kates, hand; Private S.Surk, shell wound, foot; Sergt. J.J. Sullivan, head; Private C. Matthias, hand; Private C.H. Francis, thigh; Sergt. Frank B. Taylor, foot; Private G.E. McCoy, shell wound, leg; Private Locke Bailey.
Total casualties, 5 killed and 11 wounded.
Rear-Admiral Louis Kempff, senior squadron commander, United States naval force, Asiatic Station, in forwarding the above-mentioned report of Major Waller, indorsed it as follows:
Respectfully forwarded, approved, with the request that the valuable and able services of Maj. L.W.T. Waller, U.S.M.C., commanding detachment, receive due attention and proper recognition at the hands of the Department. I would suggest a suitable medal for Major Waller, and 5 per cent additional pay for life in various grades he may reach. The other officers and men should receive medals and such other recognition as may be considered suitable by the Department, except a few men not deserving, and who will be specially reported. Major Waller has been requested to submit a list of the names of these underserving men.
I
was delighted when the marines arrived in the Solace to
find that Major Waller was in command, feeling certain that the
men would be well cared for and render creditable service. It
is with our marines under Major Waller as it is with the force
under Captain McCalla; foreign officers have only the highest
praise for their splendid fighting qualities.
I
append to my report a congratulatory order issued by the Russian
major-general concerning the capture of the east arsenal at Tientsin
by the combined forces; also several reports from Major L.W.T.
Waller relating to the operations of the marines under his command
at the attack in Tientsin.
In
a communication dated July 2, Major Waller states that Tientsin
(Chinese), is held by a garrison of 2,000 men, and that there
are, in all, 9,500 troops (combined forces) in and around Tientsin.
He also states that an attack on the west arsenal and the capture
of Tientsin city are contemplated for the next day.
In
another communication of July 2, to the second in command of the
United States naval force, Asiatic Station, Major Waller refers
to a reconnoissance made under heavy fire in the direction of
the fort near Tientsin (Chinese), in which 40 of his men participated.
The enemy were driven out of the villages and the houses burned.
One incident is described by him as follows:
Some
of the British troops being in a hot corner and unable to retreat,
Lieutenant Butler volunteered to protect them and moved to their
position under a hot fire, permitting the British to retire. He
then fell back, forming the rear guard of the column, and protecting
them thoroughly.
In
a report made later on the same day, July 2, Major Waller states
that at a meeting of the military commanders it was decided not
to attack Tientsin city until the morning of the 4th of July.
In this report he says that the suburbs of the city of Tientsin,
on the west side, are occupied by "Boxers." The number
of the Chinese troops there was estimated to be about 3,500. There
were also several thousand "Boxers," all armed with
rifles. In the latter part of the same communication Major Waller
states that the attack on Tientsin city has been abandoned for
the present, and that the Chinese troops, whose approach had been
expected, had arrived and entered the city, and that shelling
from their guns had been kept up all day. Houses on each side
of the marines' quarters were struck by shells. This report of
the 2nd of July states that the Chinese have placed three additional
batteries near the north end of the Chinese city, and that one
of these dismounted a Russian gun, killing 4 men.
In
a later report to the second in command, United States naval force,
Asiatic Station, dated July 6, Major Waller repeats his commendation
of certain officers of his command, and also mentions a number
of enlisted men as worthy of special praise. The following is
an extract from this letter:
Replying to your letter of July 4, I have the honor to state that I furnished a list of officers recommended for recognition for distinguished service. With the report mentioned I am glad to furnish another, as other cases have arisen in which these same officers have distinguished themselves. Lieut. S.D. Butler, for saving a wounded man at the risk of his own life, under a very severe fire, June 21; for admirable control and direction of his men in all the engagements from June 2 to June 25; for relieving and saving a platoon of British Indian Staff Corps troop (Chinese) July 3. Lieutenant Leonard, for admirable control of his men; for saving a wounded man, June 21, at the risk of his own life. Lieut. A.E. Harding, for conspicuous gallantry in action; for saving life of a wounded man under risk of his own under a heavy fire. Lieutenant Powell; for steadfast courage in the working of the Colt's 6-millimeter gun under a venemous fire. This was abandoned by Mr. Powell after he had disabled it. The gun was in the Russian front and I couldn't reach it to save it. I do not believe it could have been saved with the force we had. Lieutenant Wynne, for admirable conduct and control of men. Second Lieut. Wade L. Jolly, for conspicuous gallantry; for saving life of a wounded man at the risk of his own, June 21; for leading a splendid charge over the parapets of the east arsenal, June 27.
Of the men I wish to say, while all, in the engagements we participated in, behaved in such a manner as to bring forth the highest praise from the foreign officers, Sergts. Frank B. Taylor, Alexander E. Foley, Harmon C Skinner, Patrick J. Sullivan, Arthur Kennedy, Corpls. Joseph Rogers, Joseph Frederick Abdill, Thomas W. Kates, Privates Albert R. Campbell, Charles Fields, Edward McCoy, Adrian Curet, Walter Abraham Greenleaf, Henry Gardner, Charles Francis, Julius Sanfandre, Clarence Edward Mathias, the specially distinguished of these being Corporal Kates and Privates Campbell and Francis, with the Colt gun. Private Mathias, although wounded in the hand, has been in every engagement and affair.
Referring
to the condition at his headquarters in Tientsin on July 7, Major
Waller states that he has sent a party of sharpshooters, composed
of his men and Royal Welsh Fusileers, to occupy the tower of the
English colony and pick off "snipers," and to watch
for and locate the signal or flag flying from the French concession,
this party being under the command of First Lieut. R.F. Wynne,
U.S.M.C. He says the shelling of the Chinese city, west arsenal,
and viceroy's yamen was begun at noon of the 7th, and there has
been little or no reply. On July 8 he states that an attack on
the Chinese line is contemplated at 4 a.m. on the 9th, with 2,000
men. Major Waller states that his men will occupy the right of
the line along the mud wall, and that the line will curve in toward
the Chinese right and drive the force into the west arsenal, where
a general attack will be made. He says his duty is to cut off
the retreat beyond the arsenal toward the city.
In
a report dated July 9 Major Waller mentions an attack made on
the Chinese right flank, Tientsin, on that date, and states that
the enemy were driven steadily to the westward, and finally a
flanking party of the United States marines and some Japanese
soldiers entered the arsenal together. Although they were under
a heavy shell fire, the shells exploding overhead and among the
men, there were no casualties. The Chinese loss was estimated
to be about 500. The losses of the combined forces were about
45, of which number 7 were killed. The arsenal was so completely
demolished that no guard was left in charge of it. In this report
Major Waller says that he expects a general attack on the city
the next day, and also remarks that the fire and the fire discipline
of his men were excellent. He reports that 50 of his men controlled
and overpowered the fire of the enemy while the artillery were
passing over an exposed bridge. In this report Major Waller mentions
the fact that he has secured quarters for the Ninth Infantry out
of the line of fire.
In
a letter dated July 10, 1900, to the commander in chief, United
States naval force, Asiatic Station, Major Waller reports the
fact that an attack is contemplated on the east and north of Tientsin
City (Chinese) the next morning. He states that he has command
of fhe marines and will parade with and direct the Royal Welsh
Fusileers, occupying the head of the column and the right of the
line, these arrangements being temporary and subject to change
upon the arrival of Colonel Meade with the rest of the battalion.
Major
Waller encloses two letters relative to the part taken by his
command in the fight of the day before, July 9, and states that
the men have done magnificent service since the 20th of June,
and that there is not a man on the sick list except the wounded.
The fact is mentioned that if the Chinese shelling continues as
bad as the day before, the marines will have to be moved, as their
barracks have been hit three times. The inclosures referred to
above relative to the work done by Major Waller's command are
as follows:
TIENTSIN, July 10, 1900
DEAR MAJOR WALLER: The officers who were with the detachment of my regiment that were dragging the guns yesterday have asked me to write and thank you for the support you gave them yesterday by keeping down the enemy's fire while they were crossing an exposed place; their opinion is that had it not been for the action taken by you and your men they would have had a good many casualties. Please accept my sincere thanks and believe me,
Yours, sincerely,
H. BOWER.
TIENTSIN, July 9, 1900
SIR: I beg leave to thank you for having been good enough to send out a force to cooperate in the action to-day.
The steadiness of your men and the way in which they entered the arsenal were much admired.
The actual command was, as you know, under the Japanese general with our general, Brig. Gen. A.R.F. Doward, D.S.O., assisting, but as being myself present, I desire to thank you for your valuable assistance and to assure you that we are always happy to have your officers and men associate with us. I have the honor to be, sir,Your obedient servant,
E.H. Seymour, Vice-Admiral.
Major WALLER, United States Marines.
The
proposed attack on Tientsin City (Chinese) did not take place,
on account of the destruction of the bridges.
On
June 30 Col. R.L. Meade, 18 officers and 300 enlisted men were
detached from the naval station, Cavite, P.I., and sent to Taku
in the U.S.S. Brooklyn.
The
officers of this detachment were: Col. R.L. Meade, Maj. George
Richards, Capts. M.J Shaw, W.B. Lemly, A.R. Davis, C.G. Long,
B.H. Fuller, P.M. Bannon, First Lieuts. J.H.A. Day, C.G. Andresen,
R.H. Dunlap, A.J. Matthews, D.D. Porter, W.H. Clifford, J.F. MeGill,
William Hopkins, Second Lieuts. F.M. Wise, jr., W. McCreary, L.M.
Little, United States Marine Corps.
On
the arrival at Taku Colonel Meade proceeded to Tongku and thence
with his detachment to Tientsin, where he arrived with his command,
the artillery, and all stores on July 12, superseding Major Waller
in command. Colonel Meade stated that on his arrival he found
Major Waller and his force quartered in the European concession
in houses which were nightly under the shell fire of the enemy,
and that small bodies of the enemy also controlled the streets
with rifle fire at night. Colonel Meade also reported that when
he arrived only the foreign concessions in Tientsin were held
by the allied forces, that the walled city was strongly fortified,
and that all other portions of Tientsin were also strongly fortified
and held by the Chinese. Colonel Meade said his force took turns
with the other troops of the alliance in guarding the railway
station, which was an exposed place, almost continually under
shell fire, and a very dangerous duty.
At
a conference held on July 12 at the headquarters of the British
general, Brig. Gen. A.R.F. Dorward, it was decided to attack the
city about daybreak the next day, July 13, and Colonel Meade says
he was called upon to furnish a quota of 1,000 men -- the marines
(22 officers and 326 men) and a force (673 men) from the Ninth
United States Infantry, who had already arrived in Tientsin, one
battalion of the Ninth Infantry being still at Taku or en route.
At
3 a.m. on July 13 Colonel Meade marched out of barracks with his
marines, 22 officers and 326 men in four companies, the companies
commanded, respectively, by Capt. C.G. Long, Capt. A.R. Davis,
First Lieut. S.D. Butler, and Capt. B.H. Fuller. Company F was
an artillery company of three 3-inch rapid-fire guns and three
Colt's automatic guns, and this company was supported by Company
D (Captain Long, who was also the commanding officer of the Second
Battalion of the temporary organization of the marines in China).
The force was marched through the Taku gate by the road leading
to the south gate of the walled city in two columns, the Japanese
forces being to the right and the British and American forces
to the left. The column of which the marines formed part was distributed
as follows: Two companies of the Royal Welsh Fusileers leading,
followed by the marines (infantry and artillery), the English
Naval artillery, then the English naval brigade, and finally the
Ninth United States Infantry -- 673 men.
The
road was so heavy that it was difficult to haul the artillery.
Colonel Meade says his orders were to march on a line parallel
to the city wall, about 1,000 yards in rear and to the southward
of the brigade at the south gate, and there the commanding officers
were to receive their final instructions. No such conference was
held, however, and, in accordance with orders, the marines advanced
along the mud wall in a northerly direction, with two infantry
companies, leaving the artillery company and its infantry support
to act in connection with the British field artillery and to open
fire at a point where the Chinese had some 4.7-inch or 6-inch
guns mounted, the fire from which had been heavy and accurate.
The south gate was reached at about 5 o'clock a.m. The naval battery
of the Terrible had opened fire on the forts and guns of
the enemy just before the arrival of Colonel Meade's force, and
were being vigorously responded to by the Chinese. The result
of the accurate fire from the Terrible was that about 5.45
o'clock a.m. the Chinese magazine was exploded with a terrific
shock, which was distinctly felt a mile and a half away.
At
6.30 a.m. Colonel Meade received orders from the British general
to support the Royal Welsh Fusileers in an attack on the extreme
left, and accordingly crossed the wall in skirmish line, having
an extensive swampt to traverse. The country was flat and level,
with numerous grave mounds and dikes, which ready-made intrenchments
were used to advantage. The Chinese artillery and infantry fire
was exceedingly accurate, as is shown by the large casualty lists.
Colonel Meade advanced his force by rushes to a line of intrenchments
about 800 yards from the enemy. In front were very bad swamps
and a stream of water, which made it impossible to reach the city
at that point. This advanced position was reached about 8 a.m.
The marines had 180 rounds of ammunition per man, and the firing
was so incessant that Colonel Meade says he feared being left
in advanced position in a fight where no prisoners were taken
and without ammunition. On the firing line the action was especially
severe and the enemy's fire remarkably rapid and accurate.
About
8.30 a.m. the enemy appeared in large numbers on the left and
among the grave mounds where Colonel Meade's troops were located,
with an evident intention of flanking. Colonel Meade ordered a
turning movement to the left and rear and succeeded in driving
the enemy away. Later in the day, about 2 p.m., the enemy again
made a flanking movement, but the infantry support of the artillery
company was on the mud wall of the city at this time and frustrated
their object. This company was commanded by Capt. G.C. Long, U.S.M.C.
Colonel
Meade says his command remained in the trenches until about 8
p.m., when an order was received from the British general, commanding,
to withdraw, which was extremely difficult, as the ground which
had to be passed over was well covered by the enemy's fire. The
withdrawal was made in small parties of eight or ten men by rushes
from mound to mound and from trench to trench. The wounded and
1 dead officer had been previously sent to the rear. The withdrawal
was successfully accomplished, only 1 man being hit, and a safe
position was reached under the mud wall near the south gate. In
accordance with orders from the British general, the troops were
to sleep upon their arms that night and on the following morning
to enter the city, the south gate to be blown in by gun cotton.
In spite of the fact that the men had nothing to eat all day on
the 13th, except a small luncheon which each man carried in his
haversack, their behavior was perfect. Food and other necessaries
were provided for the bivouac on the night of the 13th, and the
men, although very fatigued, were ready for duty.
In
the early morning of July 14, the south gate having been blown
in, the combined force, including the marines, moved into the
walled city at about 6 o'clock. Colonel Meade reports that the
city was found "filled with dead Chinamen and animals;"
that no resistance was made to the occupation in the walled city
itself, but that an infantry fire was kept up by the Japanese
on the enemy, who responded from the suburbs. Since the 14th the
allied forces have remained in undisturbed possession of Tientsin.
Concerning his officers and men, Colonel Meade says:
The conduct of my officers and men I can not praise too highly. I had them for the most part under my personal eye. I especially desire to call to your attention the conduct of First Lieut. Charles G. Andresen, whose fearless conduct excited the admiration of all; First Lieut. S.D. Butler, who, at great risk of his life, went out of the trench to bring in a wounded man, and was shot while doing so; First Lieut. Henry Leonard, my adjutant, who brought First Lieutenant Butler in in safety, and was dangerously wounded. All conducted themselves well, and I can not commend them too highly. I append a list of the names of the officers who were engaged in the battle.
The
list of officers engaged in the battle of Tientsin, July 13, 1900,
is as follows: Col. R.L.Meade; Majs. George Richards, L.W.T. Waller;
Capts. W.B. Lemley, A.R. Davis, C.G. Long, B.H. Fuller, P.M. Bannon;
First Lieuts. S.D. Butler, H. Leonard, G.C. Reid, W.G. Powell,
J.H.A. Day, R.F. Wynne, R.H. Dunlap, D.D. Porter, J.F. McGill,
C.G. Andresen, A.J. Matthews, W.H. Clifford, A.E. Harding; Second
Lieuts. F.M. Wise, W. McCreary, L. McC. Little, L.W. Jolly; Surg.
C.C. Norton, U.S.N.; Asst. Surg. Edgar Thompson, U.S.N.
In regard to the killing of Capt. L.A.R. Davis, U.S.M.C., Colonel
Meade says:
I regret to report the death of Capt. A.R. Davis, who was killed at my side in the advanced trench. He was killed almost instantly. I had his body brought in with the wounded, and he is buried here in Tientsin, his grave being marked. This was all I could do.
Colonel
Meade states that it was impossible to bring in the bodies of
the men who were killed in the trenches, and they were buried
where they fell.
Colonel
Meade incloses in his report a copy of a letter from the British
general commanding, commending the conduct of his officers and
men. The following extracts are taken from this letter of Brig.
Gen. A.R.F. Dorward, a full copy of which is appended to my report:
* * * The American troops formed a part of the front line of the British attack, and so had more than their share of the fighting that took place. The ready and willing spirit of the officers and men will always make their command easy and pleasant, and when one adds to that the steady gallantry and power of holding on to exposed positions which they displayed on the 13th instant, the result is soldiers of the highest class.
We all deeply sympathize with you in the heavy losses you have suffered, especially with the Ninth Infantry, in the loss of their gallant Col. E.H. Liscum, while at the head of his men, and with the First Regiment of Marines in the death of Captain Davis, who met a soldier's death in the very front of the fight. * * * Among many instances of personal bravery in the action, I propose especially to bring to notice in dispatches the conduct of First Lieut. Smedley D. Butler, U.S.M.C., in bringing in a wounded man from the front under very heavy and accurate fire. Lieutenant Butler was wounded while so doing, but I am glad to learn not seriously. The regimental adjutant, First Lieut. Henry Leonard, as Lieutenant Butler was suffering severely, volunteered to carry him out of the firing line. This gallant feat he successfully accomplished, but I regret to say was very dangerously wounded in so doing. * * *
Colonel Meade in his report says of Captain Shaw:
I desire to call attention to the work of Capt. M.J. Shaw, acting commissary and quartermaster, after Captain Lemley was wounded. His untiring activity in keeping the command supplied with ammunition, food, water, and all other necessaries merits commendation from me.
He
also states that Maj. George Richards, assistant paymaster, and
Capt. W.B. Lemly, assistant quartermaster on the regimental staff,
volunteered to act as aids, and accompanied him during the day
of the battle, July 13, Captain Lemly being wounded in the leg
very early in the action before the arsenal was reached. Colonel
Meade estimated that the number of the allied forces engaged was
about 5,650. He states that the Chinese had about 60 guns, and
that their force had been variously estimated, but that it is
impossible to approximate their numbers. The Chinese force was,
however, very large.
I
append to my report copies of the report of Capt. Charles D. Long,
U.S.M.C., who commanded the Second Battalion of Marines in the
battle of Tientsin, and the report of Capt. B.H. Fuller, who commanded
the artillery company of the battalion. Captain Long in his report
says his battalion left their barracks at about 3 a.m. July 13
with the First Battalion, all under command of Colonel Meade.
When about 1½ miles from the western arsenal he was ordered
to go into action, on the right of the Japanese artillery, who
had one battery of light field guns. The First Battalion moved
to the front, and the Second Battalion inclined to the right and
moved across the marsh to a position just to the right of the
Japanese, and outside the outer wall about 2,200 yards from the
south gate of the Chinese city, the point to be forced. About
75 or 100 shells were fired over the outer wall and into the city,
Lieut. A.J. Mathews indicating from the top of the wall the fall
of the projectiles.
Captain
Fuller, commanding the artillery company, in his report states
that his men were here subjected to the rifle fire from the sharpshooters
in the walled city, and were also exposed to the guns firing shrapnel
from a fort on the west side of the city. It appearing that a
better view of the city gate could be obtained from the inside
of the mud wall, the battalion was moved by the left flank through
the arsenal gate, and took up a position inside and to the left
about 6.30 a.m. The fire was continued from this position, and
some excellent shots were placed in the Chinese city. One of the
Chinese batteries on the left unsuccessfully tried to drive the
marines from their position. The fire of the marine battery was
kept up until the supply of ammunition was exhausted. The guns
were then left outside the wall in charge of Captain Fuller and
about 60 men, and Lieut. D.D. Porter and the Colt gun detachment
joined Company D, commanded by First Lieut. R.H. Dunlap, the Colt
guns being left with Captain Fuller. Captain Long then moved his
force of about 100 men to the extreme left flank of the allied
forces, which was open and liable to a flank attack by the Chinese.
Arriving there, fire was opened on the enemy.
Shortly
afterwards, in obedience to orders received, Captain Long moved
his men forward from the wall and advanced in extended order a
distance of half a mile across the marshes, coming up on the left
of the First Battalion. This advance was made under a heavy fire,
but only one man, Private P.J. Kelleher, was hit. He was seriously
wounded in the chest, and was sent to the rear later. Just before
moving to reinforce the line, Captain Long's battalion was joined
by Lieutenant Wynne and about 40 men. Several flanking attempts
by the enemy were frustrated during the day. The command remained
in position until about 7 p.m., when they followed the other companies
which had moved to the rear for a night position. Lieutenant Wynne's
detachment from the outer wall covered this movement to the rear.
Of his command Captain Long says:
The officers and men, during the engagement which lasted thirteen or fourteen hours, displayed coolness and in every way the qualities of good soldiers and marines. The artillery under Captain Fuller was handled well, and the fire was effective in spite of poor ammunition. * * * Lieutenant Dunlap, in command of Company D, kept his company under excellent control, and by well- directed volleys and individual fire well protected the extreme left flank of the allied forces.
He
states that Private Robert Desmond, who was acting as a sharpshooter,
was wounded in the arm and leg, but moved to the rear without
assistance, and that his actions indicated "bravery, fearlessness,
and good judgment." Captain Long says that Capt. M.J. Shaw,
commissary officer of the regiment, was in charge of the barracks
and sent to the front every assistance possible, and was untiring
in his energy. In the report of the operations of his artillery
company, Capt. B.H. Fuller states that during the advance across
the open to reenforce the Ninth Infantry on the right of the line,
in obedience to orders, the following men were wounded: Sergt.
F.T. Winters, Privates J. Van Horn, H.H. Rickers, Laurin Larsson,
W.S. Chapman, Frank Miller.
Captain
Fuller states that his men and some of the English blue jackets
assisted in carrying to the rear the wounded of the Ninth Infantry.
In connection with the wounding of First Lieut. Henry Leonard,
which has been heretofore referred to, Captain Fuller states that
First Lieutenant Leonard was taken to the rear under a heavy rifle
fire by Sergt. J.M. Adams and Corp. H.C. Adriance, U.S.M.C., of
Company F, whose courage he especially commends. He also states
that Sergeant Foley showed great coolness and bravery in taking
a position on the extreme right flank and in carrying messages
under a heavy fire. In conclusion Captain Fuller states:
All the company displayed coolness and bravery and conducted themselves satisfactorily.
During the fight of July 13 the force of marines detailed at the railway station were vigorously attacked and suffered heavily. The marine detachment at the railway station consisted of Capt. P.M. Bannon, U.S.M.C., commanding, First Lieut. J.F. McGill, and 50 enlisted men. The detachment remained on this duty all during the fight of the 13th, being relieved by the Ninth Infantry on the 14th. Captain Bannon, in his report dated July 15, which is appended to my report, states that his lines were subjected to a very heavy infantry fire from the front and left all during the night of July 12 and that the enemy opened fire with their artillery about 4.30 a.m. July 14. The artillery fire became so severe that at 5 a.m. all the men were ordered out of the trenches except an observation point. The enemy having advanced in front to within 600 yards and occupied a burned village, it was necessary to again occupy the trenches, and Captain Bannon reports that this was done promptly under a severe fire. After driving the enemy back, the men were again ordered under shelter. At this point 50 men of the Ninth United States Infantry, under command of Lieutenant Brown, arrived, having been ordered out as reenforcements. The fire continued severe all the morning until 11 o'clock, when it slackened, and the artillery fire ceased at about 5 o'clock p.m., leaving only the infantry fire to contend with. Captain Bannon reports the following casualties in his detachment:
Private James McConkey, killed; Private J.C. Megonigal, severely wounded in arm; Private
A.B. Penney, wounded in thigh, condition favorable; Private Roscoe Buck, slightly wounded in leg; Private F.G. Egelseer, slightly wounded in arm.
Captain Bannon says in his report that the behavior of Lieut. J.F. McGill and the men of the detachment proved them to be courageous, reliable, and efficient, and deserving of the highest praise.
The following is a list of casualties among the officers and men of the Marine Corps force at the battle of Tientsin, July 13:
Killed.--Capt. Austin R. Davis, Sergt. C.J. Kollock, Corpl. Thomas Kelley, Privates J.E. McConkey and I.W. Partridge.
Seriously wounded.--First Lieut. Henry Leonard, gunshot left arm, humerus fractured, and brachial artery cut; Corpl. J.A. McDonald, gunshot wound left tibia; Private
F.J. Kelleher, gunshot wound through chest; Private C.D. Miller, gunshot buttock, right thigh, four openings, oblique wound right foot; Private Calvin I. Matthews, gunshot neck and cheek; Private Johjn Stokes, bullet in left side of neck; Private J. Van Horn, gunshot through left thigh, fractured.
Wounded.--Capt. William B. Lemley, gunshot left thigh, flesh wound; Capt. Charles G. Long, gunshot instep left foot; First Lieut. S.D. Butler, gunshot right thigh; First Sergt. James Murphy, gunshot left arm above elbow, flesh wound; Sergt. F.T. Winters, gunshot left arm above elbow; Corpl. Joseph. W. Hunt, gunshot right hand. Private W.S. Chapman, gunshot in cheek; Private James Cooney, gunshot end of left thumb and fingers lacerated; Private Robert Desmond, gunshot through left thigh; Private F.G. Egelseer, gunshot right arm, bone uninjured; Privarte Laurin Larsson, gunshot flesh wound, right forearm; Private G.E. McIver, gunshot both buttocks; Private J.C.Megonigal, gunshot wound right arm; Private A.B. Penney, gunshot left leg, flesh wound; Private Henry A. Rickers, gunshot left leg, lower third; Private Roscoe Buck, slightly wounded in leg.
Under date of July 18, 1900, Col. R.L. Meade, U.S.M.C., commanding United States forces in China, made a special report commending the services of Maj. L. W.T. Waller, U.S.M.C., as follows:
HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES,
Tientsin, China, July 18, 1900.SIR:
1. I desire to make a separate report of the services of Maj. L.W.T. Waller, U.S.M.C., of my command, his conduct being of such meritorious character as demanding it from me.
2. Major Waller left Cavite with 6 officers and only 100 men. He reached Taku at about the same time First Lieut. Henry Leonard did, who left Cavite before Major Waller, and the 2 officers and 32 men of First Lieutenant Leonard were added to Major Waller's command.
3. A full report of his operations while on shore in China before my arrival has already been sent to you by him, and I know of this work only from the high praise everywhere bestowed upon him by our own people and the British forces, by whom, and epecially by Vice-Admiral Seymour and Gen. A.R.F. Dorward, he is held in great esteem.
4. Since my arrival here Major Waller has shown untiring zeal. His conduct in the battle of Tientsin on the 13th instant and in the occupation of the city on the 14th was that of a fine soldier, and since then he joined in an expedition outside of the city in which 16 guns and an immense amount of rifles and ammunition were seized. These guns did not have to be fought for, but the possession of them aids our cause materially.
5. I respectfully recommend Major L.W.T. Waller for promotion to the next higher grade.Very respectfully,
ROBT. L. MEADE,
Colonel, U.S.M.C., Commanding U.S. Forces.THE BRIGADIER-GENERAL, COMMANDANT,
United States Marine Corps, Washington, D.C.
UNITED STATES NAVAL FORCE ON ASIATIC STATION
Flagship Brooklyn, off Taku, China, July 20, 1900.Approved and respectfully forwarded. Nothing but praise is heard of the conduct of Major Waller during the recent disturbances and engagements about Taku and Tientsin. All reports indicate that he is an officer of high merit, reflecting much credit on the Marine Corps and the whole United States service, and I would be glad to see him rewarded.
GEO. C. REMEY,
Rear-Admiral, U.S.N., Commander in Chief.
I
join with Rear-Admiral Kempff and Colonel Meade in their high
praise of Maj. L.W.T. Waller, U.S.M.C., for his bravery and valuable
services while in command of the marines in China, and add my
recommendation to that of Rear-Admiral Kempff, quoted earlier
in this report that Major Waller be given a suitable medal and
5 per cent additional pay for life in the various grades he may
reach.
Information
received since the battle of Tientsin shows that First Lieutenant
Leonard's wound was of such severity as to necessitate an amputation
of his left arm at the shoulder. For a time his recovery was regarded
as doubtful, but he has now much improved and there seems to be
no doubt of his recovery. Captains Butler, Long, and Lemly, who
were wounded in the battle, are practically well, according to
recent reports. Most of the enlisted men who were wounded are
either well or rapidly recovering.
The
marine officers praise in the highest terms the conduct of the
enlisted men during the battle of Tientsin. A letter from Colonel
Meade, dated July 26, states that Sergt. Clarence E. Sutton behaved
himself with especial gallantry on the firing line and in volunteering
with First Lieut. Henry Leonard to bring in First Lieut. S.D.
Butler, commanding Company A, who had been badly wounded and was
in great danger. Colonel Meade says:
This work he successfully accomplished, and I respectfully recommend him for promotion.
He also commends Sergt. Maj. John F. Lawlor, and states that he behaved in such a courageous manner as to entitle him to especial notice. He recommends that Sergeant-Major Lawlor be suitably rewarded. Captain Bannon submits the names of the men under his command who were on the railroad outposts July 12 tro 14. He says:
The bravery, efficiency and general good conduct of these men were such that it is impossible to put one ahead of another. They are men that proved their worth in an unmistakeable manner. Further praise would cheapen the glory that is theirs.
Captain Bannon adds:
I also invite the attention of the commanding officer to the action of that part of the company compelled to remain behind as a barrack guard. While the fighting was going on, on July 13, these men made trip after trip to our trenches with water and ammunition. Considering the distance and the severe fire to which they were subjected, I consider them to be deserving of the highest praise.
First Lieut. C.G. Andresen mentions especially the work done by Corpl. Julius H. Kassen and Private Homer A. Russell, of his company, during the battle of Tientsin. He says:
Lieut.
F.M. Wise, in charge of the second section of the company, has
informed me that the manner in which Corporal Kassen handled his
men, controlled and directed their fire and adjustment of sights,
is worthy of mention. Corporal Kassen is an excellent noncommissioned
officer, and I would respectfully recommend that he be promoted
to the rank of sergeant. Lieutant Wise also informs me that Private
Russell did some very effective sharpshooting from an exposed
position.
In
a communication dated July 18, 1900, Colonel Meade refers, among
other things, to the looting which had been going on in Tientsin.
He states that the treasury has been ransacked, but that all the
vaults were not looted, and Major Waller with a force is searching
for the treasure. The treasure, which consisted principally of
silver bullion, fused with brick, mortar and other débris,
was recovered from the ruins of the salt commissioner's yamen,
which had been looted and burned before the marines arrived on
the spot. A board consisting of Major Waller and Assistant Paymaster
George Richards, Capt. M.J. Shaw, and C.H.C. Moller (an American
agent in Tientsin of J.P. Morgan & Co., of New York) was appointed
to count the bullion and appraise its value. The bullion was counted
by this board, which estimated its value at $376,300, United States
currency. It had been the intention to deposit the treasure for
safe-keeping with the Hongkong and Shanghai Bank, but the vaults
of this bank would not accommodate it, and it was therefore removed
to the premises of this bank, under the supervision of the officers
of the First Regiment of Marines and placed under guard there.
In
accordance with the suggestion of Col. R.L. Meade, U.S.M.C., commanding
the United States forces in China, and with the approval of the
commander in chief United States naval forces on the Asiatic Station,
a contract was made between a board consisting of Maj. and Asst.
Paymaster George Richards, Capt. M.J. Shaw, and Capt. W.B. Lemly,
assistant quartermaster, representing the United States, and Mr.
Kenneth R. Campbell, representing J.P. Morgan & Co., bankers,
of New York City, under the provision of which the bullion was
exchanged for three New York drafts, one for $100,000, payable
at sixty days' sight; one for $100,000, payable at ninety days'
sight, and one for $176,300, payable at one hundred and twenty-eight
days' sight. The board being satisfied that the drafts were perfectly
secure, the bills of lading and insurance policies for the bullion
were delivered to Mr. Campbell, and the drafts were delivered
to Passed Assistant Paymaster Samuel Bryan, U.S.N., attached to
the flagship Brooklyn, who had been detailed by the commander
in chief of the United States naval forces on the Asiatic Station
to receive the drafts and transmit them by registered mail to
the Secretary of the Navy, which he did. Copies of the correspondence
in regard to the above-mentioned transaction in relation to this
treasure are appended to my report.
Colonel
Meade was the American representative of the council of nations,
composed of representatives of England, United States, Russia,
Germany, France, Japan, Italy, and Austria. This council was called
together by Vice-Admiral Alexieff, and formulated and promulgated
rules and regulations for the municipal government of Tientsin.
Col.
R.L. Meade was condemned by a board of medical survey on July
23, 1900, on account of rheumatism, and was accordingly invalided
to the Mare Island Hospital, Major Waller succeeding to the command
of the First Regiment of Marines. I regret very much that illness
deprived the Marine Corps of the valuable services of Colonel
Meade just before the march to Pekin. I intend in a short time
to recommend to the Department appropriate recognition of Colonel
Meade's services in China.
The
concluding portion of the agreement and the sale of the bullion
above referred to was conducted under the direction of Major Waller.
On
August 1, 1900, Col. H.C. Cochrane, U.S.M.C., was detached from
the command of the marine barracks, navy-yard, Boston, and ordered
to China to command the force of marines on shore on the Asiatic
Station, to take the place of Col. R.L. Meade, who had been invalided
home, as above stated.
It
has been a source of gratification to me to record in this report
so many instances in which officers and men have distinguished
themselves for personal bravery and heroism in battle, and it
is my intention to address a communication to the Department recommending
that the gallantry of the officers and men who have received personal
mention be appropriately recognized. In this connection attention
is invited to two cases entitled to special notice, and to which
reference has heretofore been made, namely, the rescue of a wounded
man on the firing line by First Lieut. (now Capt.) Smedley D.
Butler, at the risk of his life, he being wounded in so doing,
and the gallantry of First Lieut. (now Capt.) Henry Leonard, who,
at the risk of his own life, carried Lieutenant Butler to the
rear, across a place covered by the enemy's fire, and received
a dangerous wound while doing so, which has since necessitated
the amputation of his left arm. Such acts as these, outside an
officer's regular line of duty, are worthy of the greatest admiration,
and I shall take pleasure in recommending that the two officers
named be properly rewarded.
In
the early part of the year, when the danger to the members of
the various foreign legations in Pekin was first apprehended on
account of the "boxer" disturbances in China, which
were rapidly becoming more extensive, a marine guard, consisting
of 1 sergeant, 2 corporals, and 25 privates, under command of
Capt. John T. Myers, U.S.M.C., of the U.S.S. Oregon, was
sent to Peking to guard the legations. Captain Myers left the
Oregon with his command May 24, 1900. The exact date of
his arrival at Pekin is not known. On May 29, 1900, Capt. Newt
H. Hall, U.S.M.C., and a marine guard consisting of 1 sergeant,
1 corporal, 1 drummer, and 23 privates from the U.S.S. Newark,
was sent to Tientsin, China, and thence to Pekin on May 31, 1900,
to reenforce Captain Myer's command. This small guard, aggregating
only 56 in number, has remained in Pekin guarding the legations
during the long and terrible siege to which they were subjected
by the Chinese; and the meager reports which have so far been
received show that the marines under Captain Myers have not only
performed the duty assigned them efficiently, but with the utmost
bravery and gallantry.
The
first official information received concerning the marine guard
at Pekin was contained in a cablegram from Rear-Admiral Remey
to the Navy Department, dated Taku, August 19, 1900, as follows:
TAKU, 19th. Authentic report Pekin 15th from Latimer. Troops moving on Imperial City; clearing out Tartar City. All Americans who remained in Pekin are well. There have been no deaths among them except one child. Captain Myers has recovered from wound, has typhoid fever, crisis passed, now convalescent. Assistant Surgeon Lippett was wounded, left upper leg bone fractured, leg saved, now recovering;. Following killed during siege in Pekin: Sergt. J. Fanning, Privates C.B. King, J.W. Tutcher, J. Kennedy, R.E. Thomas, A. Turner, H. Fisher. Wounded: Private J. Schroeder, elbow, severe and dangerously ill, fever; Seaman J. Mitchell, wound upper arm, severe but recovering; all others wounded and sick have returned to duty. Casualties Major Biddle's command attack San Tan Pating: First Lieutenant Butler, chest; Private Green, wrist; Private Warrell, right temple; all slight. Reported from Chinese sources Royal family have escaped and en route to Sianfu.
The
brigadier-general commandant has since been furnished, by reference
from the Navy Department, with copies of a dispatch from the United
States consul at Chefoo, China, inclosing memoranda relating to
the situation in Pekin up to July 21, 1900. Copies of this dispatch
and the memoranda inclosed are appended to my report.
The following are extracts, taken from the memoranda refererred
to, relating to the work done by the American marines.
[Extract of cablegram from "Coltman" to "Fernstalk, Boston."]
American marines still hold vital position city wall commanding legations, after brilliant sortie July 3; Captain Myers driving back hordes Kansuli troops; he slightly wounded. Captured flags, arms.
In the memorandum quoting the gist of other messages relating to the situation in Pekin appears the following:
July 3 Captain Myers's American marines made wonderful sortie, capturing guns and standards; he was wounded slightly. Chinese also badly defeated when they attempted night attack. Foreigners holding Legation street from French to American legations, and British on north, all working at barricades, trenches, and fighting and nearly worn out. Chinese seem to be short of ammunition. Our marines have fought like tigers against fearful odds. Only Chinese cowardice prevented their hordes of savages massacreing our nationals
Under
date of August 23, 1900, Maj. W.P. Biddle, U.S.M.C., commanding
marines in China, forwarded to the brigadier-general commandant
a letter from the United States minister to China, Hon. E.H. Conger,
transmitting a copy of the resolution passed by the American missionaries
besieged in Pekin expessing "their hearty appreciation of
the courage, fidelity, and patriotism of the American marines,
who so bravely and tenaciously held the key to our salvation during
the whole of the trying time." From Minister Conger's letter
of transmission it seems that he attributes the safety of the
besieged members of the legations to the courageous and indefatigable
defense maintained by the United States marines.
It
would seem by the reports that Captain Myers and his small body
of marines succeeded in holding a dangerous and almost untenable
position on the city wall, in the face of overwhelming numbers,
and also that he made a brilliant sortie, driving back hordes
of Chinese, on which occasion he was slightly wounded. Captain
Myers's courage and gallantry merit the highest commendation,
and I will in a short time recommend to the Department that he
be given proper recognition for his bravery in the presence of
the enemy. Minister Conger's letter and its inclosures are in
full, as follows:
LEGATION OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,
Pekin, China, August 20, 1900.SIR: It affords me great pleasure to transmit herewith a copy of resolutions passed by the American missionaries besieged in Pekin, expressing their hearty appreciation of the courage, fidelity, and patriotism of the American marines, who so bravely and tenaciously held the key to our salvation during the whole of the trying time.
I most heartily and sincerely join in this expression, and beg you to communicate to both officers and men my personal commendation of and gratitude for their heroic and faithful services.
Yours, very respectfully,
E.H. CONGER
Maj. W.P. BIDDLE,
Commanding United States Marines in Pekin.
HEADQUARTERS FIRST REGIMENT OF MARINES,
Pekin, China, August 23, 1900.Respectfully forwarded to the brigadier-general, commandant, United States Marine Corps headquarters, Washington, D.C.
W.P. BIDDLE,
Major, U.S.M.C., Commanding.
PEKIN, Saturday, August 18, 1900.
DEAR SIR: At a meeting of the American missionaries held this morning at 8.30 the following resolution was unanimously adopted; and it was further voted that the resolution be drafted and presented to you.
"The Americans who have been besieged in Pekin desire to express their hearty appreciation of the courage, fidelity, and patriotism of the American Marines, to whom we so largely owe our salvation.
"By their bravery in holding an almost untenable position on the city wall in the face of overwhelming numbers, and in cooperating in driving the Chinese from a position of great strength, they made all foreigners in Pekin their debtors, and have gained for themselves an honorable name among the heroes of their country."For the meeting:
ARTHUR H. SMITH, Chairman.
CHARLES E. EWING, Secretary.HON. E.H. CONGER,
Minister of United States of America
The
reports of the battle of Tientsin and the communications relating
to the capture of the treasure in that city are the latest written
reports which have been received at these headquarters up to the
present time concerning the operations of the marines in China.
Information
has been cabled to the effect that the Fourth Battalion of Marines,
under command of Maj. W.P. Biddle, U.S.M.C., arrived in China
August 5, and another cablegram from Admiral Remey, dated Taku
August 19, shows that the marines (Major Biddle, commanding Fourth
Battalion, having assumed command) attacked San Tan Pating. In
this engagement First Lieut. S.D. Butler was wounded in the chest,
Private Green in the wrist, and Private Worrell in the right temple,
all the wounds being slight. No details of this engagement have
been received. Major Biddle, after arriving in China, being the
senior marine officer present, relieved Major Waller in command,
the total marine force amounting to 650 men, which number, it
is presumed, went to Pekin with Major Biddle. No detailed reports
concerning the march to Pekin and the battle there have been received.
The
Fifth Battalion of Marines, under command of Maj. Randolph Dickens,
U.S.M.C., arrived in China after the besieged legations in Pekin
had been relieved, and accordingly went into camp at Taku, where
they are at the time my report is finished.
The
total number of marines sent to China is as follows: Forty-nine
officers and 1,151 enlisted men.
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