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GENERAL INFORMATION SUMMARY

Volume II, Number 11 June 1 - 15, 1943

Io Civilian Morale

II. Economic and Commercial

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Special Notice

The information contained in these reports was taken from private coraiunications, and its extremely confidential character must be preserved* The infor­mation must be confided only to those officials whose knowledge of it is necessary in prosecution of the war. In no case should it be widely distributed or the information used in formal investigations, mili­tary or civil legal proceedings, or in any public way without express authority.

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GENERAL INFORMATION SdLMAiOT Volume II, Number 11

" DECLASSIFIEDI . GENERAL CIVILIAN MOitALE e.o. ii&^ Sef. art) bm <WE)

^ x . 4 . . . U . . U . 6 A ...June 1 - 15, 1943 _nars, Date feli?Sr.?T

This report is based upon the Information gathered from 156,032 personal communications (60% written by war workers), 653 Information Slips, an occasional Submission Slip dealing with morale, and the accom­panying one-day tally of 10,322 personal communications.

SYNOPSIS:

Civilian morale remained high during early June despite the force of several disturbing factors. There was again a widespread feeling of con­fidence against eneny attack and a complete dissipation of anxiety, pessimism, and criticism with reference to the progress and conduct of the war.

The primary cause of poor morale among both residents and war work­ers was strikes in Mainland war industries.

War workers were troubled by the Mainland strikes more than other civilians. Workers were again disturbed by charges of draft dodging, by Territorial taxes which they resented, and by the impending 20% federal deduction.

Close contact with the war, through contacts with military personnel who have seen action or with ships that have been damaged, was the direct cause of much good morale among workers, and was also one of the frequently mentioned reasons for strong opposition to strikes.

Rather large-scale criticism of working conditions remained a major factor in the low morale of some war workers. The oft-repeated objections were voiced again: wasted man-hours, loafing on the job and insufficient work, and lack of overtime, resulting in financial diffi­culties which will only be increased with the new taxes of July 1st,

The racial picture was completely dominated by low Japanese morale expressed in the form of resentment, anxiety and futility as the result of rumors of mass discrimination against the Japanese-American soldiers in Mississippi and Louisiana, and especially because of a reported fight between the Camp Shelby AJAs and Caucasians. Rumor had it that many AJAs had been hurt, that several had been killed, and that machine guns had been used against them, Extreme variations in detail indicated a general lack of direct information on the event; in fact many writers, after expressing anxiety — and in quite a few cases, bitterness — merely asked for information and expressed the hope that the story was untrue.

GENERAL CIVILIAN MORALE;

Despite the deleterious effect of several factors during the first two weeks of June, civilian morale maintained its general high quality of recent months. This generalization is based largely upon the results of the accompanying one-day tally cf more than 10,000 personal communications, the tally indicating that 73.8% of comments indicative of general morale revealed satisfactory adjustment to wartime conditions, while only 10.5% showed maladjustment, the remaining 15.7% being neutral. In contrast to the tally, the stronger specific statements noted indicated the disturb­ing effects of several events or conditions. Among the permanent resi­dents of the Islands, the outstanding factors were: (1) the strikes in wartime industries on the Mainland; (2) Stanley High’s article in Readers Digest criticizing civilian control in the Islands. Low civilian morale was also noted in comments deploring the changes which have taken place in Honolulu and Hawaii generally, and in criticisms of war workers as part of the civilian population, both now and possibly after the war.

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War-worker morale was affected for the worse by Mainland strikes, by charges of draft dodging and other criticisms by local residents, and in great measure by the necessity of having to pay Territorial taxes, along with the fear of not being able to manage financially after July 1st with the impending 20% deduction for federal Income taxes . This fear was enhanced by the previously recorded shortening of the work-week and the resulting decrease in pay. These financial difficulties led many workers to indicate that they intended to seek released from their Jobs despite general satisfaction with conditions. Widespread loneliness and boredom were also in evidence in letters from war workers, the lack of work again being a factor in making life monotonous for the men.Several workers spoke of the monotory of the "work, sleep and eat routine." On the positive side, the primary factor tending to improve morale was the realisation of the importance of their work, especially as brought home to them by their nearness to the actual events of the war and by remarks from those who have been in action. Many writers speci­fically related their good morale to seeing damaged warships and feeling the impulse to refit them for action as soon as possible.

Comments concerning the Mainland strikes, though fewer in number than in the previous month, followed the pattern of May, the tally indi­cating that 3*3% favored the strike while 91,6% were critical, the re­mainder being indifferent. The comments indicated a great variety of reactions to the strike, but one comment stood out, especially in war workers' letters, to the effect that if the strikers could see war as it actually is — as war workers in Hawaii do — they would never cripple war industries by going on strike. There was a slight increase, however, in the number of comments sympathizing with the strikers.

Typical comments expressing good war-worker morale: "If some things weren’t exactly to sy fancy I have tried to be philosophical, and realize there are so many other damned good Americans living under hellish condi­tions, and in far flung-oft times miserable places... I should feel in­deed fortunate..9 We might perhaps swim in a little oil, but we don’t have to lie in blood..." "I’m beginning to like it out here... at first I hated it.,* but I guess that was due to being away from home and no fault of anyone else but me.., have a real good job, don’t have to work too hard, and the best working conditions in the world, plus good salary." "Some satisfaction-in knowing you are a wheel — even if only a little wheel in keeping those boats out where they can do some good. I get terribly lonesome of course but when a fellow stops and thinks a little he hasn’t any option on that stuff," A worker from H.A.D., who is proud of the army-Navy "JS" said, "Ity contribution to this achievement is a per­fect record of not one hour lost from work and never as much as oneminute late... I feel proud and honored to serve with an outfit that iscapable of winning the Navy-Arny °E’, and you may be sure that I will be on the job until the ’lights come on again.’"

Indications of generally low morale: "I am beginning to feel ashamed of myself, and feel out of place everywhere I turn. All the friends I know back there (in the States) are in some branch of the Service, I am the only one who is not. I would like to meet those guyson even terms when this is over.,." "When people on the island keepcalling you draft dodgers, slackers etc. it gets on your nerves. We all came here to do our part for Uncle Sam but not to take all the insults of the native population.,» We work like hell every day... Seems people don’t realize just what we are really doing,.. I ’ll be glad when I get into uniform." "As far as the work is concerned, I myself don’t think it is an emergency here any more and I can’t see why those who want to aren’t allowed to go into the service.,." "Its ironical the people here look on the defense workers as draft-dodgers and to dumb and lazy to work in the States,,. The vast number of Draft Dodgers from the States now in P.H. would give anything if they could Join the Service... I believe the majority of the men here are honestly trying to do some good beside dodging the draft..."

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Typical unfavorable conronta: HWhile everyone is curious to read the article, no one is very excited about it, the general opinion being — •We've been investigated before and we will be investigated again,and the whole thing is pretty silly anyway.'" A businessman wrote, "We are all amused over the article.,. Speaking as a little toad in the ’Big 5’ puddle, we would very much welcome an investigation at this time.Hawaii's civilian war record would make Washington feel rather foolish,I think.” "Quite a bit of what he says is true — » but there are several untruths and besides that, he failed to present a fair view..* General Emmons, upon leaving, made a public statement to that effect." "As to Ur. High's charges about the 'Big Five* not cooperating with the Army and Navy here, neither you nor we need guess about that. The facts speak for themselves in an impressive record available to any investiga­tor who takes the trouble to seek the truth.->." "One thing, however, got under ny skin — that was the intimation we had not cooperated in the food program and the further intimation we were actually opposing or obstructing the anqy in the War effort., The reverse is true." "Personal­ly, I think the airing is alright. True, the Big Five has done wonders in building Hawaii to what it was before Pearl Harbor. Naturally they have pocketed the bulk of the profits but so have a few men for the en­tire United States. Tempest in a Teapot 1 Hawaii of pre-war days is gone... So, why all the loud noise by a very uninformed flash in Washington?" "The thing that makes us mad is that he failed utterly to mention the fact... that the plantations stripped and crippled themselves to give aid to arsy, Navy and Marines. We were not able to operate properly for months because our equipment was loaned to the military...The thing that makes us sa£ is that the eyes of America have been turned to Hawaii for the splendid record they've made in war work... It's a shame to have that record smirched for personal spite," "Rankin is talking about things he knows very little about. Why do they not stop arguing, and get on with the war?" "We are to be 'investigated' again.Now Rankin wants the arny to take over the whole damn Islands so that there will not be a repetition of December 7th. "Like all short articles it makes sweeping statements that distort the truth — and its all pre-war stuff and yet treated as if it was present day Hawaii..."

Typical unfavorable comments on strikes in war industries: "Any body whose ever been here or any place like it never strikes or causes troubles like that going on in the States now... Get in a place like this and see and hear and work on what has been through these horrors of war, you never have to be asked to ... do your part. I've seen men diei and dying and injured and dead and then to think that people in the States will hold up the vital war production needed to win this war and bring us fellows home again; over a small matter of dollars and c e n t s . . " I f some of the people back there could see a blood socked cockpit, planes with the tails and wings shot off maybe then they could realize there is a fight going on. While we boys here are not actually in the thick of the fight we do see plenty to know that we must stay on our job," "Aren't tricse strikes terrible? ... Why in Hell dont those bastards learn to realize there is a war on? If only they could leave the Mainland and en­ter a war zone — Boy I'm telling you in a Very few moments their striking ideas would be over. It is most disheartening to hear of those dastardly things when so many good men are sacrificing even their lives for those chicken livered Sons o-B-... We all wish the government would put a soldiers uniform on them and make them work for privates pay!" "He (Lewis) is a trouble maker and should be liquidated. Like Hitler would do it, but he must not be made a martyr that's what he wants." "Its very discouraging to us out here when we read of these strikes. Last week I worked a total of 99 hours, Uy usual week is 84 hours. I keep thinking whats the good of all of us breaking our back, eating slop, and living in a blackout when a half million men strike in one of our most important defense projects," "You can bet your life the Japs and Germans are laughing their fool self's to death,.. Something has to be done. Pray God it is not done to late* Remember strikes was the downfall of France." "I hope those people will wake up soon and stop striking. Don't they realize how much the boys feel if they strike? I always figured mining

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was a tough job but refloating a Navy would sure give them something to think about-" "If I had my way I would put every miner in uniform and then put them back in the mines and make them work*.. Then after the war1 would outlaw all unions — and I used to be a good union man lyself« There are no words strong enough to excoricate Lewie.0

Typical favorable comments: "I would like to know the miners side of the story. There must be two sides to the quarrel or they would have settled the thing by now. I will always hang out for the working nan's side regardless of what the papers may have to say. I know how the Miners have been pushed around in former years..." "The coal strike has2 sides. Remember the average miner'a wage is only $1200 a year and agreat many work for less... Coal prices have gone way up, food prices sky high, and the miner's wage has been about the same... nearly all defense workers are getting more money than the miners..." "... that really isa funny business, a lot of us fellows think they should make more money, because that is hard & dangerous work, what with all of the ship yards and factory making a hell of & lot more than them. The coal companys are making quite a sum out of their end of it."

Comments concerning Territorial and Federal taxes: "I'm not doing myself any good here... I can't make ends meet when July conies because with 20£ (taxes) we already have 10% taken off of our pay.*. 2% to the Territory of Hawaii... I'll be getting about $35-00 a week or less. I could live on that but I'm not going to deprive myself or anything when I can get into the A m y and do more than I am doing now." "Uy mind is surely made up now more than ever (to go home), one thing that swayed me for sure is the fact that beginning July 1st all wages shall be taxed 2 0 & This is causing great unrest out here, for, as you can see just how impossible it will be under these conditions." "Boy what a racket... I don't mind giving all ny money to the government for the War Effort but when it comes to giving it to a Territory... well I think that they are going a little too far." "This 2% tax plus the heavy Federal tax will about wreck most people here of medium salaries... It may come to the point of being unable to continue with the monthly purchase of war bonds." (Several writers mentioned the possibility of cancellation of bond pur­chases.)

REACTIONS To Hail DEVELOPMENTS AND RELATED SUBJECTS:

The conduct and progress of the war, and even the total war situation in its various aspects — except for the aforementioned war-industries strikes — evoked extremely few consnents. The only items which created anything like general interest were: (1) transfer of General iksmons from the command of the Hawaiian area; (2) the dissolution of the Comintern; and (3) the question of the security of the Islands. All writers praised General iinmons and some wondered why he was transferred. A few Japanese

i commented upon the change and all expressed appreciation of General l Ehraons' intelligent handling of the racial problems. Cn the question of |\ security, the great majority again felt quite confident of the safety of * the Islands against enemy attack, although there was still a minority who felt that Japan would attack the Islands, and others who were critical of complacency in the Islands. Typical comments:

"... and now the powers that be take him (Emmons) off the job and shove in a stranger an Al man perhaps but he will have to learn what muons already knows and earn our confidence by action and attitude."

"We are guessing that he (Emmons) will get DeWitt's place on the West Coast due to his successful handling of the Japanese problem here and DeWitt's nasty attitude which has become too raw and makes such excellent propaganda for the axis," Japanese comments: "We have been very for­tunate here in Hawaii in having a clear headed man like Emmons. God knows what some other military governor may have done in those first few months after the war what, with all the pressure groups and war hysteria that must have been working against us, who are unlucky enough to be of Japanese ancestry. I am certain that no one could have been fairer than

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Emmons and I am equally certain that such fair play Was paid reciprocally in full measure by all of us in the way we did our work and complied with his rules and regulations." "All I hope is ^en« tenons to take over DeWitt and handle those Japanese-American up there as efficiently as he did down here-" "No doubt you already know that Gen. Eraraons is retiring from Hawaii. You can imagine what a great loss it is for us to have him leave." "Perhaps we may say that he was God sent, but we shall prove to him and his many collogues that their trust in us is not in vain."

"Dissolution of the Comintern must be very embarrassing to a lot of people who have been hollering wolf for so long, but they don't give up easily." "One thing makes me hapiy — the dissolution of the Russian Comintern." "Dissolving the Comintern seems quite a good sign to oe.Maybe the United Nations will be able to cooperate after the war and es­tablish a permanent peace."

"He. are still confident that we have little to worry about — although there is of course, the possibility that there may be a nuisance raid. never carry our gas masks any longer; even the members of the armed forces are not obliged to.n. so all in all in spite of our continual and ever preparedness, each day makes us just a little surer.■ "Unquestionably we'll have plenty of excitement over here before the Japs give up and everybody here has a hunch things might start any day now." "I sleep with one ear on the air raid siren, and I look for difficulties in the not too distant future... While the Islands are practically lnpregnable and we do not expect to be taken, it is foolish to think that the enemy will let us entirely alone." "No one knows what may happen,.. Kilsoo Haan. • • says the Japs will attack our west Coast.., no doubt they*11 visit us on the way."

LIVING CONDITIONS:

Comments on living conditions were high-lighted by a rather substan­tial increase in criticisms of the blackout, both by permanent residents of the Islands and war workers. The advisability of rationing received

less attention than in recent periode. Many war workers seemed generally satisfied with living conditions, as again indicated by the tally which shows that 63.8^ expressed satisfaction, while 27.9;$ were critical. However, there were many objections to conditions at several camps, es­pecially the food. In many cases it was not so much the food itself that was criticized as the preparation and manner of serving. A new trend developed in the comments of war workers living in town rather than at one of the war-work camps. In all of these cases there was criticism of the extremely high cost of living.

Typical comments concerning the blackout: "We're hoping the new General.,, will relax the blackout. After a year and a half, it is be­coming rather oppressive — especially since there are lights all over the Island, where construction work is being carried on all night. But still, homes must remain blacked out,,." "We live in the most blacked out place in the world. We are all getting fed to the teeth with it as none of us can see an excuse for it now. The arny says it is no longer a com­bat zone^ Then why the H— the blackout?" "Blackout... is so depressing ... So many people crowded into one room is bad, improper air and very few of us have the stamina to sit in dark houses from one night to the next. Our blackout bulbs...are not enough to chase the gloom of living in these trying times- a lifted blackout would be a Godsend,"

Comments by war workers concerning the cost of living in Honolulu: "Living is too high here, and the stay of most of the men has been any­thing but good, the city fathers here have done all they could to get all the money from defense workers they could." "It cost a lot more to live here than back home. The whole tribe of U3 used to live for a lot less than it cost me now and gosh only knows I don't live high." "... it costs me 41.00 for my breakfast plus a quarter tip. $2.00 for ray dinner, plus a half dollar tip and about 75 for my lunch... so I don't have a lot

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left." "Regardless of what you read in the papers the prices are still going up.. (Mostly food) — and its a cinch they wouldn't if they didn't want them to. I've hod my share."

Comments from war-worker camps: Proa Civilian Housing, Area #3 (Naval Cantonment): "The food is plentiful, as provided by the Navy.,..All in all, I've got things swell* Housing, recreation and friendq.""There is every attempt to make our stay here pleasant. Every conceive- able amusement is right here on the cantonment grounds... The food is good and plentiful," A newcomer said, "Nell I'm afraid I'm going to like it out here... in ay estimation this place is just like a summer camp, they have everything out here, bowling, swimming, boxing, wrestling, base­ball, etc. in fact its a athelites paradise, Never a dull moment in the day time." "There have been some wonderful improvements in the lard and Cantonment since I arrived.., the food is really cooked now.. • Ever since they got Mainland men in as cooks, it's a pleasure to eat there." "The food here is terrible. 1*11 bet the *xie prisoners get better food than they sell here. The Hawaiians that cook and serve the food do everything but clean up the floor with it,.." "It seems as if we all here are having trouble with our stomachs.,.. It's from the food they say..." A new ar­rival said, "The living conditions here are bad to, there's 10 fellows in a apartment (3 rooms), we sleep in bunks... These fellows are all so dirty, they spit and throw butts all over the place, coos in so drunk we have to carry them to their bed... If I'd know what it was out here, I'd never have come. I'd taken the Arsy to this, it couldn't be any worse."

From Contractors Hotel, Pearl Harbor: "The food up here at the mess hall is so terrible that we can't eat it about half the time. Its sure a lot different than when I first came over..." Prom Hickaa Housing, "Ity main gripe is these awful barracks... At least an A n y barracks would be clean and lights go out on time... They are putting 6 in places built for four." From W&ikakalaua: "Thats one good thing here we have a good place to sleep and plenty to eat, only the cooks are not so good they ruin most of the food...*

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Although the tally indicated that a relatively large majority of war workers expressed satisfaction with working conditions, specific and strong comments again tended to be critical. Following the pattern of the past few months, the chief objections were leveled at wasted man­power, loafing on the job and lack of work, and the lack of overtime*Many writers were critical of unfulfilled promises made to them concerning working conditions and overtime pay.

Comments from Navy Civil Service, Pearl Harbor: "It seems that they are pulling a fast one over there telling all the people that there is plenty of overtime and that they need men so -— Vlhy, there is six men to every job here, so we ddn't have a chance. I really haven't done what you would call a day's work since I've been here. Sure gripes me. Sometimes I feel I'm not doing my part at ail... Feople are getting very disgusted with it and are quitting and going back to the Mainland where they can do - some good." "I hear that at any Navy Yard but this one I could get all the overtime I wanted,., they told me I could get all the time I wanted... but that happens to be a damned lie... It would be sv?eet over here if it wasn't for that." "My big disappointment in this place is the working hours. There is no overtime,00 Danm it I'm financially better off at home and the money is what I came for!" ".Oo it is really a crime to see the men sitting around doing nothing. There is no work here at all ex­cept maybe a little job now and then... But yet they are still bringing more men over here,*. How would you feel if I told you that these higher officers are having ash trays made from pistons, salt and pepper shakers made out of shells, name p l a t e s . i t really is a disgrace when you think of it,.., This is Pearl Harbor."

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From Hawaiian Air Depot: if you don't cooperate they say youare impeding the war effort. Yet the officers who tell you this have found a nice desk, safe from the war sone and do nothing but give orders to their subordinates... I like others would rather be in the army. Its too bad that they don't try to do something for the men who hare come here with the enthusiasm to help win this war, which has long since been knocked out of them, instead of making it ao confounded miserable,**

From U.S .E.D., Schofield: "In my work ignoradce reigns supreme and they will break you sure as hell if you tell them what you think of them... What I have had to put up with In the way of waste and ignorance..,**

HEALTH AND SOCIAL WELFARE:

There were practically no comments on this aspect of the local situation. Expressions of concern over the evidence of poliomyelitis dropped to a minimum. The following were the only significant comments:A doctor wrote, nI am reviewing tropical diseases — especially malaria. Although we do not have the anopheles here, there is a grave possibility that by airplane the Islands may be invaded by them — There are many soldiers here who have had malaria — many convalescing from the south seas," A schoolteacher said, "The Military is indifferent to the fate of kids, especially the ones that are left after their*o are nicely dis­posed of on the Mainland. Our elementary school has half sessions and the kids are left by working mothers to roam the streets and this town being adjacent to such a large military post is Hell's Whole Acre. They have imported ... left over riff raff and without the necessary family life to keep them normal, you can imagine the trouble we have... the stan­dard has gone to the devil and we are having juvenile delinquency added to our other difficulties. Even some of the Japanese kids are going hay­wire, an unknown fact before the blitz...'*

RECREATION:

There were no significant comments on this subject except for an occasional objection by war workers to the importation of liquor because of the effecta upon the men and their work.

RACIAL PROBLEMS:

The complex racial situation in the Islands continued to be one of the major factors affecting civilian morale. The various phases of the problem all indicated, during the recent period, a low or lowering morale because of racial animosity. On the part of Japanese, this condition was evidenced by strong resentment of criticism and discrimination, while Negroes, Chinese and Jews also voiced resentment though less strongly than did the Japanese. There was a rather sharp slackening off of comments both about Negroes and by Negroes, although the great majority of comments still indicated dissatisfaction with conditions.

Race Relations: a substantial majority of comments concerning the genral heterogeneous racial population of the islands were critical. War workers resent especially the necessity of working with members of the several races, while civilians objected to the prosperity of the Orientals, their buying and hoarding of commodities, and their purchases of real estate in formerly restricted areas,

Typical comments: "If you think there are race problems in Chicago you better not come out here and try to solve them. Many of these groups (Philipinos, Chinks, Coreans, and Portuggese) act as if the whites are lower than they are and don't make any bones about letting you know it." "After all this is a pretty good place to be if it wasnst for having to put up with the Japs, Filipinos, Hawaiins, Portigee*s.„ . They hate our guts and us whites dont exactly like theres either... They are very poor workers — lazy. If they wasn*t made to work under military law, I bet this very day 2/3 of them would be loafing — even with good money staring

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them in the face — war or no war,” "You are not wrong about this place.It * s all right for this mixed breed they have over here & the Jews k Negroes but not for me, I had rather have mine where you can see a few decent white people.11 "Some people think of this as the land of milk and honey, it may have been, but the Big 5 took the pdlk and the orientals are now taking the honey.., heal estate transfers in the past year or two show that orientals have purchased about 80 to 85£ of the property sold. •.n "... now when we are considering repeal of the Chinese exclusion act is a good time to take a stand, ^ven tho I like and admire the Chinese very much I think none of them — no Asiatic should be allowed citizenship,..” n... thats one of the best things about this place, except for the white people who just got here, there is almost no race prejudice, Everyone is equal and really treated so."

Inter-Racial Friendships and Marriages: This trend of criticism of other races was noted in a very large majority of reactions to friendships and marriages between Caucasian men and Island girls of various races. These criticisms came from all classes of writers, including war workers, perma­nent residents of the Islands, and in some cases from members of the Oriental races. A few Oriental girls, however, indicated that they could see no reason against such relationships.

Typical comments: "What on earth our haole young men ever see in those girls. Foolish girls they had better stick to their own last be­cause they are Japs and that is all they over will be,,. They don't realize how they will be treated when this war is over, , "One of the rottenest conditions developing here is now the crop of new babies born to Jap woman... lie re we are straining every point to stop down the dirty Japs, and our soldiers and sailors corns here and marry the Jap girls. It surely is a mess,., "hat suckers our soldiers and sailors are,” A Japanese girl wrote, “I'm always at home because 1 don't trust ny self going out because of soldiers.,. I'm not going to be a flirter like the other Japanese girls all are doing and its a disgrace..." AnotherJapanese girl wrote,”, p l e a s e be reasonable and forgive sister U___.a adther now of a little girl,,. Of course it's a soldier, and that's the reason she left home,..” A Japanese girl said, "o,. we'll try not lo be too selfish and make the mainlanders feel 'at home' in Hawaii even if it means snubs from the local people because we talk to the 'Haoles.' ... they (war workers) find out we here are just as human and not half canni­bals as they thought we were before they came to the islands,” ”1 really don't like their (older Japanese) ideas on marriage... There are compara­tively few inter-marriages, as Japanese people don't believe in such things, so you can see what a rebel and revolutionist I am turning out to be.,.Most of the girls here do not confide in their parents,,, we go about solving our own problems-,,” a Hawaiian girl said, "No reason why the Hawaiians dont like the white, As far as I can say I'm proud to be an -American, and I like the Service boys. Also see no reason why I should hate them as my Aunt's and Uncle's do...”

Reactions to Local Japanese: Although the accompanying tally indicates a lessening of animosity toward the local Japanese, a substantial majority of comments were strongly critical, many expressing definitely low morale in the form of fear or distrust of the entire Japanese population. Some of this came about because of the recognized inability to distinguish between the loyal and the disloyal, According to the tally, 31.71 of comments made on one day were favorable to the Japanese while 57.4>S were unfavorable. These figures compare with 25.9^ and 60.5'/£ respectively on the tally of May 2i*th. Not all concents were wholly favorable or un­favorable however, there being a number which indicated lack of animosity and occasionally even a liking for the Japanese, along with this, there was often a feeling of being "not quite sure" of them. Comment .seemed to be on the increase to the effect that no Japanese would ever make a good American citizen, or that an amendment to the Constitution should bar even American-born Japanese from citizenship. Some comments of this latter type stemmed directly from recent remarks by General DeWitt and from Representative rtankin.

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Typical comments: "No, I'm not upset about the situation you men­tioned. Not so much as Californians have always been. I do not like them (Japanese) aa a people, but some of them are nice., We have some good friends (ostensibly) among them, but I never aa quite sure in ay own mind. I think the Islanders are much to tolerant and nothing they could do would surprise me — much.0 nI am certain that not one Japanese in a thousand, in the islands, would welcome a Japanese invasion and that, most of the young ones would fight whole heartedly to prevent it." "I agree with you that all the alien Japanese should bo sent back to Japan.1 do feel sorry for the *merican-boro ones who are loyal, but a lot of them are not and how is one to know." "All of us are quite proud of the intelligent tolerance shown in Hawaii and as a result I'm convinced that inter-racial understanding is not impossible..."

"I haven't seen any yet that would make a good American. They are loyal just so far, but they are taught Japan first. You bet they can be polite and nice* But give them the upper hand. They are over-bearing...Just let these so-called loyal ones pick up a paper and read Japan Wins War. And then you would see a quick change in them." "... Alien as well as American born Japs still maintain all their homeland customs etc. as well as consistently talk Japanese in public places... you legislators should not be complacent in your beliefs you could possibly make good Americans out of them, any more than a rattlesnake can be domesticated.Japanese have demonstrated to v»e Americans they never intended or never will blend in with our way of life." "They are not of us, not the making of good Americans..." "Our Constitution should now have an additional Amendment so that it declares that no Jap may become an American citizen and further that the law be made retroactive." "I firmly believe that the main reason that we have such strict law and blackout rules is to keep the Japanese in place... I cannot help but feel they are a tricky treacherous race." "No matter who wins the war, the Japs will still win the Hawaiian Islands. They're buying property right and left. Then too, so many local firms employ them in preference to white people, as they'll work for half the salary it is necessary to pay a white man." "Help is impossible to find or keep — all our alienulips have sofr cushy Jobs at fabulous prices and it is beneath any of them to work as house servants —We treat them with gloves and give them the very best of everything —the good old American fo61." "..o the labor question is the same here.Japanese house workers get as high as $125.00 per month... Such is the independence of that type..." Several writers spoke of the Japanese florists who raised prices for Memorial Day, one saying,"... the florists are mostly Japs, and did they pop the prices up. Boy oh bqy it was ajoke... They certainly have a nice little racket here and dont have togive a damned which side wins. Either side is a winning side for them, but make hay while the sun shines." "Will be a good thing when they start drafting here. Maybe it will straighten out soma of the wise Japs... I can’t think of a better combination than the Japs shooting the Germans and the Germans shooting the Japs."

Japanese Morale: One of the most important developments of the period con­sisted of a marked deterioration in Japanese morale. Practically all of the causes of this condition arose on the Mainland, and specifically in connection with remarks made about, or difficulties encountered by, the Japanese soldiers of American ancestry who are stationed at Camp Shelby,Mississippi, or Shreveport, Louisiana. The most disturbing single factor consisted or rumors and reports about a fight between the Anerican- Japanese and Caucasians at or near Camp Shelby. These reports assumed serious proportions in the course of two weeks — to the extent of having seven or eight Japanese killed — and led to great disturbance among the local Japanese population, especially among the families of the Japanese volunteers; The rumor was widespread in Hawaii, although few seemed to be sure of any of the actual facts, except that there had been trouble of seme sort. Many of the milder references to the incident expressed anxiety about the safety of the boys, and a hope that the report was either untrue or exaggerated, Many writers merely asked for verification or information concerning the report.

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Cbu?c w\sir% .t lt t u'lLiv ittdue&ba reported by so ld ie r s in M is s is s ip p i o r Louisiana tolling of discrimination andof being called naaee by the Caucasians there. Many writer* sympathised with the Ameridan-Japanas* eoIdlers in their resentaent at being called a "Jap." There was a noteworthy Increase in an attitude of belligerency toward those who criticised or discriminated against American-Japanese; soae writers even encouraged AJAa to fight for their rights, and others ex­pressed approval of their having engaged in a fight, if the fracas was the result of criticisms. Several writers wondsred why the AJAa had been sent to the South, and hoped that they would be moved to a camp where racial discrimination would be less prominent.

Purely on the local scene, there was an increase in the generally depressed state of mind, especially among the older Japanese. Some ex­perienced anxiety because of the slackening off of war work and the in­evitable return to less lucrative and more menial tasks. On the other hand, there were numerous expressions of patriotism and loyalty, expres­sions of philosophical attitudes to be taken toward inevitable discrimina­tion, and an increase in definitely positive types of consent with reference to the war, and against Japan. These latter consents appeared almost as a direct answer to recent charges that the Japanese express only passive or negative types of patriotism and are never critical of Japan or the emperor.

Comments concerning the rumored fight at Camp Shelby: "There are rumors going around that some of the AJA boys got Into a fight with some of the boys In Hattisburg and about 8 boys were killed and 70 or 80 boys were injured. Some how I cannot blame the boys for fighting for as the rumors goes these boys in Hattisburg called the AJA boys traitors and though they volunteered they are still yellow Japs. If I were in their shoes, I certainly will put up a fight too.” "People around twvn are saying that you guys at Shelby started some kind of racial war. They are saying that you guys and the Negroes ganged up and attacked the haole soldiers. They are even saying that the haoles fired on you guys and rumor 3001 says that three guys were killed..." "Its difficult to under­stand how the white people can attack a Japanese Soldier in Uncle Sam’s uniform and fighting for the same principle. These people in the South are aiding 100 percent in demoralising the boys who have volunteered....."

sister told ae something today that Bade my heart com up to my throat.•• It aay or may not be true but It was about the uprising you people were supposed to have had and that some boys got killed and hurt. Hope to God that this is not true..." "I heard... that if you go into a town the boys get 'mobbed1 at by the people in that town, and also few of the boys got killed or got seriously injured and some other miscellane­ous trivialities... Please get me straight on this matter, is it true?""Is it true that there was a pretty big fight between the A.J.A. boys and the Haoles there at Shelby? — I heard these soldiers (Haoles) used machine guns and about 7 of these A.J.A. boys were killed.... Gees you boys sure have to put up with a lot, don't you?" "Tou boys deserve a pat on the back from us down here for upholding and defending your rights as American soldiers. Yup, if* I had been up there I would have been one of the guys to have gone .looking for the narrow minded, lame brained haoles who would try to exercise superiority." "We are all very mad to hear that the mainland soldiers are discriminating you boys and insulting you boys by calling you Japs ...I don't blame you boys for fighting with those haoles. Anybody would have done tbs same. Human beings can take just so much and when that "limit is passed there Is only oto thing to do and that is what you boys did I am sure." "...the haoles are not breat­hing them AJAa like human beings. I think the good for nothing haoles have violated every principle of Lincoln's Gettysburg address (all men are created equal.) .... I though W e were fighting for democracy but it seems as if they have a different purpose." "Those Ignorant people are but a few compared to the rest who believe that we're all right. People around

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hare don't call ns Jape in our faces, for IX they do there's going to be trouble for then. I'm glad you boys gave those fresh southern troops the medicine for acting la such a stupid maimer."

Sons writers hinted that soae of the AJAs say hare been responsible for the reported fight. Examples: "I sure hate to hear that easy of the boys act libs that. I only wish they would change their attitude oauae people their night judge the rest of us Japanese Aaarleans here the same... Just because there's one or oouple of bad eggs among the good, the good are considered as the rotten egg — thus they Hist pay the oonscquenoe*"■I** really sorry to hear about the rotten apples In your unit. Too bed they were taken, but bell — let then suffer their osn consequences .*

"Indeed! I would call the people of Missi. Ignorant. Ignorant, narrow winded and alnple adndod are the exact words fits then... low that people took such attitude (as die crimination) we Americans of Japanese ancestry most all the more try hardier and show the haoles that we are Just as patriotic to America as the white meats are. It really hurts me when We are called Japs." "I guess as usual they started out by 'Jap' ... Maybe they think a Jap Is a Jpp but being a Japanese and trying so bard to do our best It hurts so much." (Many writers to Iced this opinion.) "Ve too hare our own troubles out here too but I am sure they ere not as bad as yours... but it can't be helped. We are of Japanese descent and you cannot erase that no setter what you do. So please don't accuse end blame the world for all the junk thrown at you but keep your head thrown high..." "I'm sorry to hear you don't like Mississippi... With the population 1/2 white and 1/2 black you will no doubt see a lot of racial discrimination.It is a pity that certain parts of our country — a nation of equal men — still carry on this act..." "It's too bad you boys didn't go to McCoy Wisconsin like the first bunch. The rumors that's going around, seems like you boys are haring a tough time down there. •• It sure gets me worried."

"I couldn't help but get mad and think that why did you ever volun­teer." "Sometimes I wonder wby you ever wanted to get Into the any...Do you ever wonder, fbr what cause am I in this a n y outfit?... There seems that many of the boys regret for what they're done." "... I bet you wish you never volunteered. I don't blame you for volunteer you were forced to do it. Every body feSl the sang ae you do. Most of the boys don't want the life but they are force to do it."

Miscellaneous comments indicative of low morale: "There are always people who everlastingly make things miserable for us. Sometimes we get so frightened we don't even feel like going out. I don't know why some people can't leave us alone. We are not responsible for this war; yet to some we are. Well, I don't know what to say.•• We didn't do anything wrong so chin up, you know... and watch out for them snakes — yes two kinds." "Only yesterday someone told sy father.•• that in case of an at­tack they are going to kill all the Japanese on this island — women and children ... It has created such a fear In our home we dont dare go out In the dork alone." "I'm glad mother went to that show tonight.•• She seldom goes out and even to town she goes but once a half year! Some people haven't seen mother slucer the war beg&nl She's so afraid to go out — why, I don't know. She feels that she doesn't want to make any wrong move be­cause I always tell her about how some people love to bdsi out loud in the enemy tongue and it's terribly nauseating!"

Comments Indicative of patriotism, loyalty, and positive anti-Japanese sentiment of local Japanese: "Wonder where you'll read this letter...Rome.. .Africa, or on your way to Tokyo to give that guy To jo a konk on his head.” "Maybe we're a Jap but brother we ain't like the Japs In Toklo or the stinking To jo & Company." "We will always remember you guys who.., Went forth., to clean up the filth of the Axis and to avenge the stab in the back that Japan gave to us...” Another writer told of a collection for "Boobs for Tokyo" saying, "OH! the Committee is sponsoring

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4 campaign to r&lsw fuada for Boobs for Tokyo... as an answer and challenge to the brutality of the Japanese Government In executing our fliers." "I despise everything what the Axis countries are fighting for and stand for.Ve ere awfully fortunate that we are not living in Japan because it is not the kind of life that you or I or anyone, who has sense enough to live a life will care for." "What ever you did to leave hone, you did it for people of Honokawai and Hawaii and the people you love to save us from our mammy and dictatorship..."

Negroes: While practically all specific strong consents referring toNegroes were again critical, total evidence seemed to indicate clearly that the Negro problem had declined in significance. The statistics of the tally are especially revealing in this connection, shewing that there were only 20 comments concerning Negroes in more than 1D,000 letters. Of these 20 comments, 8 were favorable, 10 unfavorable and 2 indifferent.Most comments were written by war workers, but the tally indicates that even in this connection, the proportion of favorable comment to unfavorable was definitely increasing. Negro morale continued to be mixed in quality, although the majority of writers resented discrimination in Hawaii, as well as in democratic America generally. Comments calling attention to the inconsistency of the war for democracy and discrimina­tion against the Negro were again in evidence.

Typical comments concerning Negroes, all from workers in the Pearl Harbor area: "... color don't mean anything here hafta eat with the Negroes sit beside them., am wondering if you oould stand that I can't hardly at times..." "Tou see so many black people till you can't see any thing but black. And these natives treat a negro like a brother.•• Will be ready to kill every negro I see when I do get home." "I am just about loselng patience... am afraid ITm going to part one of these colored boy's skull with a shovel, you don't realise how beligerent they can be over here."

Comments expressing Negro morale: "I am doing my best for the U.S.A. even lending it my money. And when I read of the way they are doing Colored people in the South I wonder am I doing right for helping with the war. I get pretty hot some time the way they do. But I will do my best to help save it. But if they dont do any better when the war is over,I am making a change." "... things are fine here and I'm doing fine now...I am out of the south I think I will stay but it is the same way here sometime the white man has made these girls hate the Negroes here.."There is very few colored women over here, and they is all married.... they is watched so closely... a young fellow like me can't take it... I would go crazy 18 months alone like this...." Several workers indicated that the lack of women was affecting Negro morals, perhaps more t.h»n anything else. For example: "We have got a ball diamond three or four teams, theatre, library, post office, recreational halls, boxing ring, resturants, a couple of stores, everything that & man would want, everything except women."

Other Races; Comments concerning members of other races, and comments from members of other groups were again so few In number that a determination of trends of opinion was impossible. The few comments made tended, however, to indicate criticism of the Chinese, criticism of the Filipino workers for Laziness, criticisms of Jews and low Jewish morale, and Koreanrressntment of classification as enemy aliens.

Sample comments: "I've learned to hate their (Chinese) guts be­cause they're rotten and backbiting clear through... These Chinese out here are not those Chinese fighting for their very existence in China.•• Those are arrogant, conceited, backs lapping to"-your face and back-biting- when-you-turn lot who recent... our presence and so it's rather tough.""The least impressive (group) is the Filipinos. They seem to resent the white man and do sot like to work with them... I have watched them at work and they seem to be either lazy or tired all the time..." A Jewish worker said, "A Jew is this and that, thoy're cheap and so forth and so on... 0ns went as far as to say he'd like to see Hitler come here and slaughter the Jews, os ha has dona in Germany. This isn’t the time or place for

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nationality or root to Interfere. Vo ore oil fighting for the pit +>»w '•V« Hawaii is grand but the fellows that live here make life miserable

TOTAL PERSONAL LETTERS AND CARDSCIVILIAN 4 4 9 4WAR WORKERS 5828) 10322

TOPIC FAVQRAB1E rafltAVORAHpc * JE U F ttSSSM t WO COWSSTGBKERALJ a « s

Adjustment to CIV «a 671 (78.80*S'

50 ( 5.9*) Vi 130 (15.3*) . 78.2*WartimeConditions _5S_ P 988 (70.8)1) 185 (13.3*)

•223 (15.9*)

Security 2E_ as 5 ( 5.7*) 6 ( 6.9*)in theTalon^y» ww 8 86 (86 •xO j 7 ( 7.2*) S*•ft A ( 4.1*)

98.2* .

Working CIV 1ft 59 <75.60 13 (16.7*)W• 6 ( 7.7*) 93.9*

Conditions ww eg 385 (69.7*) a' 129 (23.4*) 38 ( 6.9*)

Urlng 23L- (68.7*)s•v\rw

38 (20.5*) Vi 20 (10.8*) 93.9*Conditionsm

n.•rvNO 286 (63.8*) 125 (27.9*)o•o V ( 8.3*)

Reactions to cjv vt -*7 (28.4*)

£38 (63.3*) Jft•or-f

5 ( 8.3*)

6 (14.6*)Island

Japanese ww peHC«> 15 (36.6*) 20 (AS.8*) 99.0*

Strikes 2 ( 5.6*) Vi _33 (91.6*1 vi 1 ( 2.8*) 98.8*Mainland m •c«% 2 ( 2.3*)CD•£ 79 (91.9<)

. o •>* 5 ( 5.8*)

I s 22_ 3 <60.0*) _2 (40.0*) RoneRegross rw

Sm$ 5 (33 J*)§•R 8 (534*) 10

.0 *

2 (13.3*)

99.8*

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TRENDS The observation mads by the Chamber of Commerce of Honolulu in its monthly letter that business in the territory daring lay m s "being Maintained at high levels,” is folly borne out by reports froa the various local merchants. "our business still oontinues to be very big," writes a department store manager, and addss "I feel the ba- lance of this year we will do all the business that we dan get asn- chandiae to handle." Other letters reveal that shipping conditions are improving, In fhct "There seems to be a tremendous amount of avail­ability for all kinds of shipping space." On the other hand, wsrohants are still experiencing difficulties in obtaining the needed Merchandise, and although one Importer finds that "goods are rolling in bounteously these days," another ooneedee that "we are getting wore shipping spaoe now than we can fill up as goods are hard to find."

ALLOCATIIONS AND PRIORITIES i Merchants continue to find the local office of the War Production Board "very difficult to deal with," and lay par­ticular emphasis In their complaints on the great number of applies- tlona which have been denied since the Honolulu office was established. "It seems that the local VPB has been turning down more applications almost than they have ok'ed,” writes a manufacturers' agent who finds "the whole situation bad for business and most confusing." 1 planta­tion store executive has "filed at least 100 PD-IX applications for priority and to date... only two approved for a manufacturing rating and about ten passed on to S.F. for further consideration." Another local agent remarks that "all the applications which I had our customers file shortly after the VPB office was established were reflected." He on a familiar note: "We are all sorry that the army is no longer in control."

Ohe business man makes the charge that the I.PJ3. "are discourag­ing recently established business and stymieing completely and new business under the allocation ays tea," and a dealer in office applian­ces claims that be was told that "they were not interested in keeping small firms in business." This last writer seems convinced that "un­less some powers to be iron out these man in the War Production Board office at Honolulu, that we are going to step into difficulties that will be Impossible to surmount..."

Reference is made to the limited number of forms used by the local VPB office which for this reason insists that applications for certain goods "he filed on a PD-1A and not PD-857 form such as you use on the Mainland." This accentuates the complaint of another mer­chant who writes that lack of available PD1A forms "caused at least two weeks of doing nothing on our orders.” FD-1X forms, likewise, seem to be used instead of the more proper forms in use on the wain- land, and "these PD-IX forms are very much of a nuisance."

But, "the canneries are enjoying more favorable priority rating condideration than heretofore," in the opinion of a prominent Import­er, and a dealer in automotive supplies commands the local VPB on ■ contacting and broadcasting all possible dealers and manufacturers on the Pacific Coast and the Eastern seaboard to the effect that 1^153 does apply, and that all manufacturers should honor such."

M & S permits: Comparing conditions on the mainland with those in Hawaii, a machinery importer remarks: "You on the mainland, have only priorities as your main difficulty, but when we combine shipping and priorities, then we really have a headache." A dealer in sporting goods points out that "it takes from one to three weeks to process such applications for shipping permits," Qa the whole, however, no doubt also as & result of an improvement In the shipping situation, merchants seem to be well satisfied with the H & 3 office: "We were able to get this permit without any undue difficulty," observes the merchandising manager of a large department store.

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There is one oomplaint about discrimination. A tobacco impor- ter writes that a certain large competitor is the "only fir® In Ha­waii* which Is able to obtain priority and shipping space far pipes* Says bet *Eow they get their priority' Is a eystery to us... This is something rotten and easily

Referring to the resumption of II A S permits for parcels over 11 pounds, a curio dealer insists that these permits are now being Issued on a much sore restricted scale than was formerly the case)■only certain types of merchandise . .are allowed to he brought in by parcel post... the weight for each pereit is reduced to nearly half of what we used to apply for.*

PRICKS AHD RATIONING: Ghee again, the Office of Price Administrationhas beooae the target of a great eany oowplalnts, and business sen in all lines of trade voice their dissatisfaction with the OPA, its regul­ations and its methods, as well as the attitude of its local person­nel. "The aaln battle cry of the OPA," writes an executive of one of the large sugar factors, "seems to be one of accusing anyone who dis­agrees or asks questions as being unpatriotic." A pineapple executive is "definitely opposed to tbs attempts being made by that department to regiment business)The manager of a large department store apparently believes that "it will go the way of N.R.A. and a lot of others, that after all didn't mean too much.”

An importer of radios and refrigerators claims that OPA "fre­quently pot ceilings on various merchandise that is below landed cost," In which connection a fellow tradesman adds* "they are making some people sell their merchandise even though they did pay too such innocently on the Mainland." A curio dealer mentions the (straw) industry which "will be killed due to the low prices"; and a manufacturers1 agent makes the general statement that "a lot of the fellows are about ready to sell out and let seme Oriental have the field."

Food importers and wholesalers are no less outspoken In their criticism. An importer of mainland fruits complains that the mark­up which -.OPA allows the "perishable* importers* is insufficient to take care of the slightest decay, not to mention of our operating oost." "With just normal spoilage it is hardly possible to break even,” writes another. A wholesaler finds that sales are being re­tarded because of the fact that retailers are "operating under ceilings that are very, very difficult to calculate." In a few Instances re­ference is being made to "inexperienced people* In the local OPA of­fice who "do not understand how to run business,” although the author of the last remark concedes that "they want to help us."

While expressing their grievances against the OPA Insofar as it effects their own particular business, merchants at the same time, continue to point out the ineffectiveness of the present price con­trol system as far as the cost of living is concerned. "I can't see where the Price Control has had a very great effect over h»re,t says an automotive dealer, and a food broker refers specifically to the lo­cal restaurants which "are making wore money than they have dreamed of." "Fresh fish is almost unobtainable here," comments a steamship man, "and the prices are enormous

As for the price control officials themselves: To quote one of the OPA economists: "Since the Battle of Midway we have noticed ever- increasing recurrences of the resistance of private business to go­vernment regulation,..• Any suggestion on our part that prices be re­duced, even though prices are inordinately high, is met with vigorous — and sometimes skilful — opposition." Another staff member, while

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oonoeding s o n mistakes, aoouses price ooxxtrol critics of having •little ooostractive suggestion for us, only blatant or 1m and in the next breath admitting something m e t be doosl*

Gasoline rationing: The nsw gasoline rationing plan announced by the OPA has, likewise, stirred the feellnge of the leland business man, causing what one OPA official daaoribed ae "a tempest In a gae tank** ■There la quite a row now over the announced Intention of OPA to In­stitute gasoline rationing on the book system, * writes a local attor­ney who further dales that "no very convincing statement has been ■ad# of the need for a change.* He seees to be of tbs opinion that ■OPA want# rationing Machinery set up which will be available if it should be neoessary to ration any foods/ "The saving isn't worth the effort and even the Oil Companies have eo advised/ declare# another writer, and a statement by the representative of a mainland oil concern appears to bear him outs "We see no reason for further cute and wa feel that the present system has accomplished its objective*" In another letter, the same oil man states, however, that be is "taking do active part in the campaign/ and adds: *We are dealing with the O.P.A. on price natters locally In a very friendly manner and are re­ceiving good cooperation from them*"

A sugar executive considers the establishment of "Worker's Committees" to supervise the allocation of gasoline to employees "a clever way to disguise communism/ and an OPA official, referring to the same matter, writes about the time he spent arguing that "local Boards were desirable institutions, and were not really a communist Invention." While revealing that until. recently OPA received "reaarfc- ably good cooperation from the Big Five," another price control offi­cial mentions that with the announcement of the change in the system of rationing gasoline "we are just beginning to feel tbs full fury and power of their opposition. •« the real purpose Is to show us our place once and fbr all."

FOOD JPRODUCTICW ASP DISTRIBUTION: While one food importer seems to he inclined towards the rather general view that "the people who are controlling the importation of food do not understand the problems of the buyer and. seller,0 another directs his attack more specifically at the policy of offering shipping spaed "only to those people that shipped in the past years." He contends that "regulations such as this tend to form a monopoly that is detrimental to good business prac­tice.8

As far as the F.S.C.C. is concerned, one writer makes the prediction that sales will "slacken off" until the buyers find out "what the F.S.C.C. is going to do with regard to some of the products that they are now carrying jointly with the private importers." An egg&. and poultry ooopany official complains that F.S.C.C. "has balled up the feed deal." and a flour and feed importer claims that acquies­cence on his part to an arrangement proposed by the F.S.C.C. "prac­tically puts as out of the Soya Been business."

WARTIME CONTROLS IN GENERAL: One writer, too, complains of "too much government in business," and a third refers particularly to "all the work it takes to keep up with all the new rulings of the government."

m .r n m n w i .

Bookseller and Stationer: "The only drawback about the PD-688 as is­sued here In Hawaii Is that they want us to use a FD-1X form for ob­taining replacements in cases where we deliver from local stock, and these PD-1X forms are very much of a nuisance •* (5/27/43)

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Importer of machinery, ©to: ■Incidentally’ — 1PB (Honolulu) 1© *po- 1 Icing1 all priority applications and catena long on all purchases other than U.S. Navy and Army. Their oontrol la very nearly 100%.*(5/28/43)

C h e m i a l Engineering Supply agent: *WE hare been leaning over backwards to keep oar skirts clean and aa far aa oar office la con­cerned thia baa been done to the letter and to the eatiefaction of the O.P.A. and W .P.B. who have both had their own little Investigation • ••fa started daring a difficult period and have the aaauranoea of the two government agencies heretofore aentioned that if they can 'get ua1 or put ua out of business, that is exactly what they would do.It la no secret that they are discouraging recently established busi­ness and atynielng completely any new business under the allocation system." (5/29/43)

General importer) "The VJPB In Honolulu advises that they are oont&ct- tngaaad broadcasting all possible dealers and nanafaoturera on the Pacific Coast and the Eastern seaboard to the effect that I*-158 does apply, and that all manufacturers should honor such,1 "We are very happy that this natter has o&Aared up, and with such, we unquestion­ably will get better parts service*" (5/31/43)

Sporting goods Inporter: "Our W«P«B« office here wishes to use ohly a limited number of forms and for this reason insists that all ap­plications even for scales, he filed on a PD-IA and not PD-857 form such as you use on the mainlands* (6/1/43)

Department store manager: "Part of our delay In getting these orders ready has been in the lack of available PD1A. forms. There were so •any requests that the local WPS Office had to have two local printings and when they saw the bill they decided that they would wait for the forms to come from Washington. This caused at least two weeks of doing nothing on our orders •" (6/2/43'

Office appliance dealer: "... They (W.P.B.) have the audacity to tell me that all equipment coming la would be under their control, and they ware not Interested in keeping small firms In business.•• not only to­ward me but toward other office alliance people as well... I would call a kingdom within a kingdom, and that la exactly the reaction of all the rest of the business houses in Honolulu ...I am afraid that unless some powers to be iron out these men In the War Production Board office at Honolulu, that we are going to step into difficulties that will be Impossible to surmount .. .we as well as other applicants are being put to a tremendous amount of detail to have applications denied so rapidly, and without definite justification, as no application has been presented to the War Production Board office that didn't have merit attached to it for & legitimate release." (6/3/43)

Manufacturers' a g e n t . t h e s e people (IBB) are very difficult to deal with and all the applications which I had our customers file shortly after the WFB off ip© was established ware rejected. Among them were such customers as the St. Francis Hospital, Honolulu Board of Water Supply... the equipment of which was essential to the war eff­ort. I went to work and had these customers contact the A m y etc. and finally got about 90% of the applications approved. In general, they are very difficult to deal with and everybody here is of the asms opinion. In fact wa are all sorry that the army Is no longer in con­trol." (6/6/43)

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Plantation store executives "Since the Military rule was turned over to civilian control we have filed at least 100 PD-1X applications for priority and to date... only two approved for a Manufacturing rating and about ten passed on to S.F. for further consideration. • .Bakes you stop and ponder as to whether or not as a country we are such a good Democracy (6/7/43)

Manufacturers1 agents "It seems that the local YFB has been turning down more applications — almost than they have ok1 ad ...When intelli­gent people, with a working conception of business requirements, are In control in our local OPA and WPB offices — preference ratings will be available... Since March of this year, civilian business here In Hawaii oould well classify itself in the same category as a step child ... .Many changes of personnel will be forth coning in the near future • • .The whole situation la bad for business and most confusing..."

Prominent importer: "The government of the Territory has reverted back to the Civilian authorities and aa a consequence we are now under the War Production Board's jurisdiction and therefore the canneries are enjoying more favorable priority rating consideration than hereto­fore." (6/ll/43)

If & S permits

Curio dealer: "Parcel post permit now la more restrictive than before March 10 „ Before March 10 we were allowed to apply about 500 pounds for a single parcel post permit and the types of Merchandise allowed to be brought in by parcel post were on a larger scale. Today or since the resumption of parcel post permit — Hay 17 — only certain types of Merchandise such as drosses and some others are allowed to be brought In by parcel post. But the amount of weight for each permit Is reduced to nearly half of what we used to apply for... It is clear that we cannot use the parcel post service to a great extent."

Machinery Importer: "Our biggest difficulty now, In doing business,Is trying to keep up with the routine of priorities and shipping.Tou on the mainland, have only priorities as your main difficulty, but when we combine shipping and priorities, then we really have a headache. However, we are doing pretty well and if we can keep on the way we are new, without any further Changes, we can be very thafe&ful and can probably last for the duration of the war.” (6/1/43)

Dealer in sporting goods: "Our Material k Supply Division of the Go­vernor's Office accepts application for shipping only three days each week and it takes from one to three weeks to process such applications for shipping permits." (6/1/43)

Tobacco importer: "...is the only firm in Hawaii that has shipping 8pace or priority for shipping these goods (pipes) and tho we have tried time and time again to get shipping priority space we have always been turned down. How they get their priority is a mystery to us where­as no other business could get any shipping space and yet they can always bring in any amount of pipes and other articles that they want. This is something rotten and smelly." (6/4/43)

Department store manager: "There seems to be a tremendous amount of availability for all kinds of shipping space. We were able to get this permit (MSS for 60G cubic feet) without any uridue difficulty, and from the information wo have just received last Saturday from the H&5 Of­fice, Matson is accepting shipping ratings." (6/8/43)

(6/10/43)

(5/29/43)

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comments on prices and rationing

Radio dealer: "... suet be very careful of priced due to O.P.A. Believeno, they are plenty tough here. Radios have to be sold now Tor lose than they did before the war. They are asking some people sell their merchandise even though they did pay too m o b innocently on the Main* land." (5/56/43)

Fruit inporter: "To give you an Idea about our Barg In on Imports, the O.P.A. have been and are allowing the perishables importers only 12 to 15% mark-up. Tou will agree that it 1s Insufficient to take care of the slightest decay, not to mention of our operating oost. So you see what we are up against when bad shipments, such as mentioned In this letter, occur.H (5/27/43)

Automotive dealer: ”1 understand that it has always oost more to live in Honolulu than the other Islands but I had no idea it would be as much as it is. Since the terrific influx of defense workers from tbs Mainland plus the soldiers and sailors prices hare really soared. 1 can't see where the Price Control has had a very great effedt ever here.* (5/28/43)

Curio dealert “The O.P.A. la Honolulu Is very active dost. It will put up a new ceiling price regulation for the dry goods stores in Hawaii.How it views the landing cost of merchandise In determining the ceiling prices, so far we do not know... The O.P.A. has already stepped In the industry of Hawaiian hand-woven lauhala (straw) articles. It seems that this industry will be killed due to the low prices it sets for these goods. Therefore, we also give up hope to make any more bags >of such material. That Is why we wired you on May 27 to sell all our sip- perso.*The O.PJL also steps In the ready-made garment industry in Honolulu. We used to supply some of these manufacturers with our ma­terial and have them make up garments for us. Due to low labor charge set by the O.P.A. on certain garments, the manufacturers are forced to suspend this labor service to retailers." (5/29/43)

Food wholesaler: "Another point that is retarding sale at present is the fact that the O.P.A. while they have developed satisfactory prices at wholesale level, they have not as yet announced the retail ceilings and the retailers are operating under ceilings that are very, very difficult to calculate. As a result, many commodities that are in the Territory are not being offered by the retailer for sale because he cannot figure out a price." (5/29/43)

Radios k refrigerators i^orter: "As for the O.P.A.•• they just do not have any business training and frequently put ceilings on various merchandise that is below landed co3 t... Therefore, we have a great many radios and refrigerators that are likewise tied up." (5/33/43)

Food wholesaler: "Tou oust realise that there are inexperienced people here who cannot seem to understand that your doing business for prac­tical oost in San Francisco and your doing business on sight draft or open account here in Honolulu Is not the same type of business...

tried to upset the apple cart in every way, and from what news I get from the mainland, it seems as though they are pretty well washed-up, and maybe within the not too far distant future some other type of control other than O.P.A. will be established, and it will go the way of N.R.A, and a lot of others, that after all didn't mean toomuch." (6/2/43)

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Food broker: "The local restaurant* hare are about 98% Japanese and Chinese and while they have practically doubled their prices, Che ear* ▼ice, the food and the variety of fbod furnished la about half aa good as it used to be under normal conditions* They are asking wore money than they have dreaned of and sees to expect more, and under the dr- C o n s t a n c e s serve the cheapest of everything." (6/2/43)

Pineapple executives "I have no strong feelings against price regula­tions as such but sa definitely opposed to the attempts being node by that department to reglaent business." (6/4/43)

Wholesale 6 retail grocers "We nay not be able to keep in the business if the O.P.A. cut our prioea too low. I have had sons tine with thea over our prioes. We will try and If I see that the price level is too low I will not fight it out till I have lost the gain of my many years.I shall wind up the store. It Is unfortunate that the Price office la not filled with nore business non, Instead of with Phds., Lawyers, and what have you. They want to help us but they do not understand how to run business. The expenses are terrible. But inflation Is all they talk of so we Bust sacrifice to keep Inflation down. The new set up will shrink our present business by $10,000.00 per year and of course the profits go with that also." (6/5/43)

Steamship nan* "Fresh fish is almost unobtainable here and the prices are enormous — I know one fisherman quite well and he told se that he sold his entire catch each day, lock, stock and barrel without clean­ing or sorting or anything — at & straight wholesale price of 654 a pound." (6/7/43)

C9PA staff memberi "OPA generally speaking is having its troubles bare too. I wonder if it is in disrepute on the mainland. We have very complicated problems of course and I for one have disagreed in principle with many of our approaches... Any group that tries to do a job that has no precedent makes mistakes but generally speaking our critics hags little constructive suggestion for us, only blatant cries and in the next breath admitting something has to be done! The public psy­chology is of course a part of ltl..we are prone to criticise and to know that blame should be pot some place but at a loss as to just where,.. In many ways I use a lot of oil and honey per day in wy conf­erences with business people•* (6/7/43)

Sugar executive: "They accuse us of not being patriotic, of not know­ing there is a war on, etc., etc.,...That makes it rather difficult for the simple business man. One section of the OPA naues a fair price for molasses and another section of the OPA accuses us of being unpatrio­tic If we ask for that fair price. The main battle cry of the OPA seems to be one of accusing anyone who disagrees or asks questions as being unpatriotic. Perhaps it la a dafense mechanism but whatever the reason it is not conducive to cooperation." (6/8/43)

Manufacturers* agent: ..."Hare In Honolulu they (O.P.A.) are getting tougher every day, and a lot of the fellows are about ready to sell out and let some Oriental have the field. When an outsider from the Eastern part of the U.S. can come in and tell every one here at what price he should sell, khowlng nothing of local conditions and dictating the pro­fits which are limited — it looks tough." (6/9/43)

Meat company manager: "Regarding the 0.F>A... it appears that their meat price fixing program is even yet far from a workable, efficient or lasting system." [6/9/43)

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Wife pf^ produce manager: "At present, Joe's worst heedschs 1* the GPA* and at times we wonder if it is worth while to stay la bos loses* lbs ■ark op allowed on stuff... is so swell that ship— it wost be perfect tto take care of expanses A have anything at all left. With just nornal spoilage it la hardly possible to break even*.. Joe actually lost a whole ship— it of apples beoaoee the OPA would not give Joe a selling prioe soon enough to save then from spoiling." (6/10/43)

OPA eoononistt "... When we first eene out here, business wen were wore than eager to kokua (a favorite Hawaiian word Banning cooperate). Since the Battle of Midway, However, we have noticed ever-Increasing recur­rences of the resistance of private business to government regulation.Otoe would think, in a land where the handaowe profits even exceed those in poet-missionary days, that there would not be as such objection as there is. By and large, Boat businesses Bade In 1942 three tines the net profit before taxes as they did in 1940. The boon began here In 1940. Any suggestion on our part that prices be reduced, even though prices ere inordinately high, is net with vigorous — and soastlnea gtrm- ful — opposition. We fortunately have no problem of ’doing irreparable harm1 to any firm whose prices we reduce. There Is so such margin bare, accruing from both an unduly high price level and very tremendously increased volune, that a good many prices could be alaost cut In half without jeopardising the position of business. I hasten to add we are not doing this, however. We do follow In our present efforts the Pres­idential directive to roll prices back to September 1941 level."(6/10/43)

ataallP*

Sugar executives "The O.P.A. is probably the worst ’power1 product yet created.•• I don’t know whether you have reached the extreme recommended here) that is, the establishment of Torker’s Committees * in each business establishment to supervise the allocation of Gaso­lene to the employees• This Is celled the ’Democratic’ way as opposed to the 1 Paternalistic’ system. It is a clever way to disguise com­munism. Once these Worker’s Committees are organized I believe they would be used to extend the communistic idea under the guiding hand of OPA." (5/27/43)

OPA staff member : "We’ve had to spend days arguing that local Boards were desirable institutions, and were not really a communist inven­tion. A joint management-labor committee is just the communists try­ing to take over in the guise of gas rationing — and acre of the same bilge." (5/27/43)

OPA officials "UP until recently we received remarkably good cooperation from the Big Five. They know the meaning of inflation and are even willing to waive some present profit in the Interest of keeping capital Intact* Recently, however, we announced that we were <*->•» ng-fng the syetem of rationing gasoline as instituted by the Military Gover­nor and were substituting the mainland mileage system. We are just beginning to feel the full fury and power of their opposition. Although there are certain business interests which have moved them to t ake this attitude, the sledge hamper methods now being employed would seem to indicate that the real purpose is to show us our place once and for all." (5/31/43)

Oil company representative: "A lot of opposition is developing against the new Mainland ration-book system tor gasoline which the local O.P.A, plans to put Into effect at on early date* The Chamber of Commerce and the Citizens’ Council, which consists of most of the big interests, are doing everything possible to prevent the Mainland system going lxv-

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%uL *to effect, as they feel that it will aerel^W the start of reginanW tion Of O.PJL The present coupon ajstee 1# simple atod has been yeiy effective.•• Ws eee no reason fbr further outs, and ve feel that \tik present sjstea has anoowpllshed its objective." (6/3/43)

local attorneys "There 3s quite a row now over the announced intention of OPA to Institute gasoline rationing on the book systea. I think the publicity on it has been poorly handled — no vary convincing state- sent has been Bade of the need fbr a change. 1 have an idea that one reason Is that OPA wants rationing Machinery set up which will he available if it should he necessary to ration any fbods. As it ap­pears in the press, a lot of pilikia is being caused for the aoadenlc satisfaction of a bunch of malihinis. At any rate, CPA is presently filling the role of big had wolf." (6/2/43)

Local business mans "The whole Territory has been up in aras against it, as the fbrner plan seesingly has worked satisfactorily and favor­ably with the Army, Navy, Oil Companies and civilians involved..The saving... isn't worth the effort and even the Oil Coapanies have so advised. The Washington hoys still want to put it into effect.* (6AA3)

Oil coopasy representative t "There Is no question but that Kr. Borders has a fight on his hands with the large interests here. However,! an taking no active part In the campaign... We are dealing with the O.P.A. on price natters locally In a very friendly Banner and are re­ceiving good cooperation from then. O.PJL has not consulted us in the natter of gasoline rationing, nor have they asked fbr any advice.Hr. Borders •• .Is Incorrect In hit statement that the_________ Cotipanyis not cooperating with them, as ve have taken no part in the opposl^ tion to the mainland plan." (6/3/43)

COKMEKTS IK FOOD PRODUCT IDS AHP DISTRIBUTION

Food importerx "It seems that the local authorities sometimes do things without rime (sic) or reason. To-day there nay he plenty space fbr preserves, and the next day all shipping space may tie cancelled. It seems to us that the people who are controlling the importation of fbod do not understand the problems of the buyer and seller. This is one reason we prefer to have all of our orders shipped from San Fran­cisco before placing new orders." (5/29/43)

Food wholesalers "Recently, a statement was made to ae that they (Food Control Office) had instructed Batson to offer spacs only to those people that shipped in the past years. This premise is very false because of the fact that certain firms that maintain an office in San Francisco do sot come under such restrictions. In other words,

etc. can buy from whomever they please because they do their own shipping or they claim they do it. In other words, space is assign­ed to them in their name without any regard to where the merchandise originated. But this policy does not fall true to such firms that ope­rate without an office in San Francisco. In other words, this ruling or stand would tend to force the independent buyers to buy through cer­tain isolated channels and would hinder their purchasing to a great extent.... I would recommend that you take this up with the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce and other such trade organisations, and discuss it and indicats to then that regulations suoh as this tend to form a monopoly that is detrimental to good business practice." (5/29/43)

Food wholesalers Is "under the impression that sales will alaJcen off for the next two or three months...some of them (buyers) are more In­clined to bold on until they find out exactly what they are going to do in the local situation — for example, what the F.S.C.C. Is going to do with regard to some of the products that they are sow carrying jointly with the private importers." (5/29/43)

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Flour and food importer* "The Soya Bean Situation baa been m y critical here,*, I hare not been given a vary good deal on thin aa it aeeaa that aoat of mj cos toners bare been taken over ty the FSCC, retainedtheir customers aa did — By mutual agreement, I allowed thento freeze my Soya Bean in my warehouse, dealing only with customers 1 waa assigned to.,." Stating that he had only aofuieeoed to thla arrange­ment because of "dire emergency* and that "when ISGC had tail* up a little stock, I expected to sell to whoa I wished," he continues 1 "It aeeaa they hare gone ahead after they received a couple hundred tone to all of the for the month of June, giving ne 120 hags for qrcustomers. This pr&etioally puts ne out of the Soya Been business,"(6AA3)

Egg ft poultry importers "I as sure that F«S.C,C, has hailed up the feed deal as bad as they have everything else they are in, but they are very reluctant, as always, to open it up to private suppliers," (6/5/43)

COMMENTS ON WARTIME CONTROLS IN GENERAL

Hosiery dealer: "Tou have no idea of all the work it takes to keep up with all the near rulings of the govemnent. If I was to do it iqrself, and I could not, it would tike all of vf tins. It 1s endless," (5/27/43)

Local business executives",.. .Present day conditions sake business alnost impossible and trying to stay In business Is a Herculean task,He here either have too-nuch or too-littls merchandise to soil. The Bureaucrats In Washington nay be having a swell tine fbr thenselvse but they certainly are a headache to everyone else. Host of the constant stream of red-tape and regulations issued by then are absolutely ridi- culously assainine and do more to hinder tbs war-effort than to help it, Maybe the American People and the thinking powers to be will wake up to this fact someday, and when they do the war will be brought to a successful conclusion such sooner." (5/29/43)

Restaurant owners "I sold my business at the end of April. There is just getting to be too dann ranch government in business. I was spending over half mj time on forms, Inventories and other forms of govern­ment work, both federal and local, and three fourths of sy time worry­ing, So I quit and am planning now on entering the commercial fishing business." (6/9/43)

HAS

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