them seriously. During the engagement, a Japanese steamer was heading downriver and was fired on, but the Americans prevented her from being damaged by providing covering fire. The incidents of Chinese troops firing on foreign vessels were quickly brought to the attention of the western population of China. Protests broke out in Shanghai, which ultimately forced the Chinese government to make an apology and pay $25,000 to the United States. The money was eventually given to the wife of Chief Yeoman O'Brien and the affair was settled. Both of the wounded sailors received $500. See also General Sherman incident Gunboat diplomacy References Battles and operations of the Yangtze Patrol Military history of the United States 1918 in China Combat incidents Maritime incidents in 1918 Battles involving China China–United States military relations Conflicts in 1918 January 1918 events China in World War I