Preparing Japanese People for the Worst

Manawatu Times, Volume 70, Issue 190, 13 August 1945, Page 5

Preparing Japanese People for the Worst

Received Sunday, 9.50 p.m. NEW YORK, August 12. The Tokio radio broadcast the newspaper Yomiuri’s editorial which said:

’ ’ The nation’s highest duty is to continue its existence. There is an ebb and flow in every nation's affairs. Individuals must have the courage of selfimmolation, hut it may be said that the nation has not the right to commit suicide. Therefore, there are times when statesmen must have the courage to save the nation at the cost of their own lives. (The broadcast did not mention surrender).

While Tokio sources unanimously admitted the extreme gravity of the war situation and urged the Japanese to remain calm in any contingency, the Allied war leaders in the Pacific were carrying out a "wait and see” policy. The Tokio newspapers commented vigorously on the grave war situation, but in their editorials no mention was made of the surrender offer.

The Tokio radio said Japan’s decision to sue for peace was made at a full Cabinet meeting including the War and Navy Ministers. The meeting lasted from Thursday afternoon until dawn on Friday. Although the radio said the vote was unanimous the Swiss radio quoted the same source stating that as opposition party headed by the Japanese War Minister (Anami) opposed capitulation. The Japanese Cabinet assumed command of the People’s Volunteer Corps and immediately abolished the Volunteer Corps. An Army and Navy joint headquarters corps was established under the control of the Army and Navy to repel an invasion.

Admiral Nimitz announced that all armed forces in the Pacific would continue offensive action unless otherwise specifically directed. He warned against enemy attacks and treachery even if a general surrender were announced. General MacArthur, Admiral Mountbatten and General Lemay followed Admiral Nimitz with similar statements. Generals MacArthur and Lemay said air attacks would be continued against Japan until the War Department ordered a halt. Shortly thereafter the Tokio radio announced that 150 bombers based on Okinawa raided Northwest Kyushu. While the Supreme National Defence Council and the Kuomintang Executive Committee were jointly considering the Japanese surrender proposal, Chinese forces were ordered to continue fighting. They reoccupied Wuchow and also Sinyu, 85 miles southwest of Hanchang.