if he was aware of the fact that there was a Japanese newspaper reporter

travelling aboard one of the vessels.

He stated that he did not know

this individual's name, but that, some five weeks prior, the local communications people had been advised of this person's impending arrival
at Rabaul.

They were requested to extend courtesies, including accept-

ance of collect messages.

Mr. Sniles informed us that this Japanese

reporter had been filing dispatches.

In response to a direct question

from Mr. Sniles as to how long we would remain in Rabaul, Colonel
lechausse advised him of our early morning departure time.

This resulted

in the not unanticipated question as to our findings and opinions.

In

the presence of Dr. Haszler, Colonel lechausse advised Mr. Smiles to
the following effect, although the words may not be an exact quote,
"For obvious reasons, I am not in a position to make a formal statement.
However, we feel that our results confirm, in general, those of Doctor

Haszler and the local authorities.

We have had a very pleasant stay in

Rabaul and wish it were possible to stay longer."

He then asked whether

there was any danger on the ships or their presence in Rabaul.
lechausse replied, "No",

Colonel

IlIater that evening, while we were at a Chinese

restaurant, Mr. GSniles located us and delivered the clipping from the
Sydney newspaper, without conversation.

C.

DEPARTURE FROM RABAUL and Return to Eniwetok

28 July 1958, Monday:
OLL5

Team and aircraft crew members assembled at breakfast at hotel.

0515

Baggage loaded; team and crew proceeded to air-strip.

Met by

Mr. Foldi and Dr. Haszler and Mr. Gus Sriles.

17
re

cece
.

a

DOE ARCIIN

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