It is advisable to use the 5th, 6th, and 12th Columns
to block the Shenyang enemy’s retreat route toward Yingkou[1]
(October 19, 1948)
Lin, Luo, Liu:
Since the enemy in Changchun is willing to surrender, our 5th, 6th, and 12th Columns may cease their movement toward Changchun. It seems advisable for two of these three columns to be positioned between Shenyang and Yingkou, and for one column to construct fortifications and garrison Yingkou. It is also advisable for them to arrive in that area before you strike Jinxi and Huludao[2], thereby blocking the Shenyang enemy’s retreat route toward Yingkou. If the Shenyang enemy moves to reinforce Jinxi and Huludao, then these three columns should contain and pin down the Shenyang enemy from the flank and rear. Of the nine independent divisions near Changchun, it is also advisable to send the greater part to the area between Shenyang and Yingkou, with Xiao and Xiao[3] proceeding to that area to take command. What is your view? We await your consideration and reply.
Central Military Commission
Haoyin
[1] This is a telegram drafted by Mao Zedong for the Central Military Commission of the Communist Party of China, addressed to Lin Biao, commander of the Northeast Field Army, Luo Ronghuan, political commissar, and Liu Yalou, chief of staff.
[2] Jinxi and Huludao refer to Jinxi and Huludao in Liaoning Province.
[3] Xiao and Xiao refer to Xiao Jinguang and Xiao Hua, who were then respectively commander and political commissar of the 1st Corps of the Northeast Field Army.