Diary+4-+Dec+18,+1944

Dear Diary,

This year tapers down with good news for our country and our troops abroad. Since the naval battle at Guadalcanal ended in a major victory for us and our allies against the Japanese in 1942, I've no longer feared surrender. Though war still rages on, Japanese resources dwindles to an all-time low and it looks as though their tirade may be coming to an end. With each victory, big or small, relief continues to flood over me. War is taxing, both physically and on my conscience.

I can sense that the American people are anxious for this war to end. Though we fight abroad, economic ramifications of war continue to burden our citizens. Families across the nation mourn the loss of loved ones. Japanese Kamikaze attacks still threaten U.S. citizens. With a desperate need to feel secure, our people eat up good news published by the media. In June U.S. carrier-based planes and anti-aircraft fire from U.S. ships shot down 220 Japanese planes while only losing 20. Such news appears to provide much needed fuel to the general morale.

Japan is running out of steam. The citizens of Japan showed their war weariness by removing Hideki Tojo from office because of the serious setbacks suffered throughout their country in this war. Our victory in Leyte marked our progression toward success in officially taking back the Philippines. The Japanese continued to push further into China and Burma, but with their resources spread thin, we managed to destroy hundreds of ships and planes in Marianas and Guam. Yesterday the U.S. Army Air Force began preparations to drop the Atomic Bomb on Japan by establishing the 509th Composite Group to operate the B-29s that will deliver the bomb. The American citizens can almost taste a long-awaited victory, particularly in Asia. Finally, we see a light at the end of a dark tunnel and very long tunnel!

As much as I would like to revel in the joys of victory, Americans will need post-war leadership more than anything. War industries have dominated our economy for a long time. When the war is over, the economy will need stimulation to propel new industries and provide employment for our returning soldiers. Harry. S. Truman, vice president, and the Cabinet members are also ready for carrying out a plan. Having been elected for a fourth term, I hope for the strength to guide my citizens back to times of prosperity.