FORMOSA: The Reds Press On

Chiang Kai-shek's beleaguered Nationalists made their third retreat in six weeks. First, Yikiang fell in battle, then the Tachens were given up under U.S. protection and pressure. Last week the Nationalists evacuated six-square-mile Nanchi Island, 90 miles south of the fallen Tachens—first taking off 2,000 civilians, then the garrison of some 5,000 troops. The Nanchi withdrawal was a purely Nationalist operation. Chiang's aging P-47s and PBYs (World War II prop planes), aided by Nationalist F-84 and F-86 jets, covered the move. U.S. air-sea rescue teams stood by in case of trouble, but did not take part.

For the Nationalists, the...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!