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disarmed.
I most strongly advised leaving rather than endanger 23 lives uselessly I asked that as the decision to stay had apparently been taken by majority vote of American officers may British vote ordered be counted. Lieut Henn replied it was hardly a vote but just wishes of majority and he knew his CO would expect him to stay. He further stated that as British were only guests on party he could not over rule wishes of the majority
because we favoured leaving.
Para 4. By this time there was evidences of Japanese grip tightening. Aircraft were ordered off runway on to grass and engine covers put on. Previous permission to send radio messages was limited to 1 message and a copy
•
of that demanded. I again appealed to Lt Hean to reconsider his instructions. Fighter cover was running short of POL and three had to leave and situation was getting desperate. Lt Henn again refused but just then the General sent for him.and explained that although he wishes tohelp he was afraid our presence might precipitate trouble as already there were signs among his junior officers of disapproval his lenient treatment
of us.
Lt Henn then agreed to leave and we took off at 1845 hrs the American majority expressed relief just as
Remaining fighter cover had left an hour
much as us.
before.
I am naturally not anxious repeat this operation under Americans before Armistice signed it was made obvious
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