MURDER IN CAMP MANZANAR
I, J. Y. Kurihara, citizen and a veteran of the United States, do hereby make the following statement regarding the incident that culminated in the most shameful murder committed by the soldiers of the country that blatantly preaches Democracy. It deplores me to state the facts as they exist; but however painful it may be, I have decided to state the truths unbiasly. In the name of Justice, with Almighty God as my witness, I shall now proceed to state to the best of my knowledge, this shameful incident under the title "Murder in Camp Manzanar."
Early Sunday morning, I was informed by the foreman of Kitchen 27, that Fred Tayama was administered a thrashing at about 8 P.M. by a group of masked assailants. Mr. Harry Ueno was arrested on suspicion, and was immediately taken to Independence Jail by Ned Campbell, Assistant Project Director.
The Kitchen Workers Union have summoned the representatives of all the Kitchens to a meeting after breakfast at Mess Hall 22. Though I am not connected with the union in any way, I have decided to attend and acquaint myself with the facts, in order to defend Mr. Ueno. After having been fully informed on matters connected with the incident, I have roused the members of the Kitchen Workers Union to unite and fight, or allow yourselves be called ungrateful slackers.
The meeting was closed with the appointment of five as the negotiating Committee, namely: four representing the Kitchen Workers Union: Mr. Hashimoto, S. Tateishi, G. Yamaguchi, K. Suzukawa, and myself, (J.Y. Kurihara) and with an understanding to hold a general meeting of the residents at 1 P.M. at Mess Hall 22.
Far in advance of the specified hour, the residents from throughout the Center gathered with ever increasing number, far beyond expectation. Preparations were made to receive them. Loud-speakers were installed and the microphone connected in readiness with the speakers. When the hall was thrown open, it was immediately jamed [jammed] beyond capacity. In order to satisfy the ever increasing crowd, announcement was made that the meeting is to be held outdoor. The people complied without a murmur.
Addresses were made from the oil tower with the aid of the loud-speakers. There were an estimated crowd of approximately 2000 or more. Mr. S. Tateishi: acted as chairman. The speakers were the representatives of the Kitchen Workers Union; namely, Shigetoshi Tateishi, Genji Yamaguchi, Sokichi Hashimoto and myself.
The representative of the Kitchen Workers Union spoke principally to inform the residents of the unselfish efforts and sacrifices made by Mr. Ueno for the benefit of the people. Personally, I prefer to let them relate their statements themselves in order
For my topic I have chosen "Ueno or Tayama." Gentlemen: It is needless for me to repeat what others have said about Mr. Ueno. You are by now fully informed how unselfishly he has worked to better the conditions of the Kitchen workers, and likewise improved the ration which you have been enjoying without knowing who was responsible for it all. Please do not forget to thank Mr. Ueno, your benefactor in your nightly prayers. He has done more for us than any man throughout this center.
Fred Tayama, the most despised person in this Center has accused Mr. Ueno as one of his assailants. The police without definite proof, imbibing the words of Judas Iscariot have arrested and jailed Mr. Ueno in Independence. Now, shall we permit the Police Department to arrest and jail Mr. Ueno on the questionable words of that sneak, Fred Tayama, or shall we unite, and fight to have Mr. Ueno, your benefactor be brought back to Manzanar? Yes! we must. We must not rest until he is safely back here amongst us!
Fred Tayama, as you all know, is one of the most vicious liars of the Center. He was and is still responsible for the arrests of many who were sent to the Concentration Camps. He brazenly exploited the Japanese people in Los Angeles, and have unnecessarily caused hardships and sufferings to many of you. Ever since his arrival here, he has been spying and reporting many residents to the F.B.I. causing fear and unrest throughout the Center. I have definite proofs to substantiate the charges against him. It is a wonder you have tolerated with such a sneak so long. He should have been fed to the coyotes long ago.
Again he has without proper authority, committed one of the most heinous crimes against the people, not only of this Center, but against the entire 130,000 Japanese in the United States. A crime which means your lives and the lives of your dear sons. May I ask, are you going to stand for it any longer?
On or about the 10th of October, I, with two others as my witnesses, (Koichi Tsuji and Harry Ueno) have personally called on Fred Tayama, Karl Yoneda, Tokutaro Slocum, Togo Tanaka, Joe Masaoka, and challenged each and all of them to an open debate, to decide the issue on, "For or Against the Manzanar Citizens Federation," once and for all. The purpose was to determine by open vote as to whether the American Japanese Citizens were in favor of the M.C. Federation or not. If the majority of the citizens were in favor of the M.C.F. I promised never again to interfere with their functions, but should the contrary prove to be true, then I would demand in the name of the citizens, the dissolution of the M.C.F. immediately. Very much to my disappointment, even Mr. Slocum, who is reputed to be a very good
Now! the question is, who authorized him to represent the citizens of this center at the annual meeting of the J.A.C.L. at Salt Lake City? That's what I would like to know, and that's what you too ought to know. I am positive no one gave him the right to represent us. He has taken matters into his own hand and have acted without authority, thereby committing the lives of thousands of you and your beloved sons on the altar of Destruction.
Had he met me like a man in public debate, and through the sanction of the majority, had represented us at Salt Lake, then, I have nothing to say. But he did not and was not delegated to represent the niseis. He had appointed himself as delegate, and exercised the rights without the consent of the people.
His representation of the Citizens of Manzanar without nomination was bad enough. This abuse was doubly flaunted in your face when he voted and signed the petition to President Roosevelt, requesting the recognition of American-Japanese in the same light with the American Citizens of Caucasian origin, and induct the American-Japanese for combat duties against the Axis powers. He has taken the liberty to decide your fate for you and the fate of your sons as if he was the commander-in-chief of the Japanese people.
His past records in Los Angeles prove beyond all questions of doubt that he had been informing on you, and betraying you, and since his arrival here in this camp, he has been very active in this camp, in his nefarious work as an agent of the F.B.I. I have definite proofs to substantiate my charges. Are you going to tolerate it any longer? Why permit that sneak to pollute the air we breath [breathe]? Let's kill him! Let's kill him and feed him to the roving coyotes! I'll be responsible! He is now in the hospital. Let him not escape.
If the Administration refuses to listen to our demand, let us proceed with him and exterminate all other informers in this camp. There are tens upon tens of them amongst us. I will name some of them to you now. There is Tokutaro Nishimura, otherwise Slocum, informer Number 2, and Togo Tanaka, Tom Imai, George Hayakawa, James Oda, Joe Masaoka, Ted Uyeno, John Sonoda, Satoru Kamikawa, etc.
We are now going to demand the return of Mr. Ueno to this camp. Let us fight and fight to the finish!
The crowd numbering several thousands stampeded ahead of the Negotiating Committee for the Administration Bldg. Hundreds of youngsters constitute part of the immense crowd, which appears quite threatening, but to my judgment they were harmless curiosity seekers.
Mr. Merritt, Capt. Hall of the U.S. Army, and chief of Police Gilky were approaching boldly towards the crowd. Mr. Campbell was slightly in the rear. But as we neared the officials, the crowd became incensed with hate at the sight of Mr. Campbell. Sensing the danger, I immediately darted forward and advised Mr. Campbell to get away beyond the reach of the crowd. He readily complied saying "All right, all right, I am sorry," thereby diverting bloodshed before the start of the negotiation.
I then went to meet Mr. Merritt, and introduced myself as the spokesman of the Committee, and have demanded in the name of the people, the return of Mr. Ueno immediately to the Center.
Relating the verbal account to the best of my knowledge:
Now, who is the spokesman here?
I am Sir, My name is J. Kurihara. Mr. Merritt, we demand the return of Mr. Ueno to this camp immediately.
You demand?
Yes! We demand that he be returned to the camp immediately.
By what right was he taken out of this camp and placed in the Independence Jail?
Well, he was arrested for beating Fred Tayama and causing the trouble. We also know that he threatened Mr. Campbell.
It is not Ueno who caused this trouble, but it's those damnable bunch of Sons-of-bitches who spied on us--those stool-pigeons, Mr. Merritt.
Will you give me their names? I will try and have those who are pro-Americans and pro-Japanese segregated.
This is not the question of pro-Americans or pro-Japanese. It is those stool-pigeons who ought to be thrown out of this camp. They've caused all the troubles. It is a wonder that the Japanese have tolerated with them this long. This trouble ought to have happened months ago. I will give you the names of those stool pigeons tomorrow.
Will you comply with our demand and bring Mr. Ueno back, or do you want to see 10 or more dead bodies throughout the camp in the morning? Likewise we will declare a general strike, in sympathy with Mr. Ueno. Even Kitchens will be closed.
Then you have to go without eating. Women and children will suffer.
We can take it. We are Japanese. Men, women, and children will suffer together. That's Japanese, Sir?
Well, I did it for his safety. Will you send the crowd back as far as the Post Office Building, and then I will talk to you.
I do not know whether I can or not but I will try.
I stood on the front fender of a truck and addressed the crowd, requesting them to retire as far back as the Post Office Building. The crowd was adamant. They will not retire. Instead they've gathered around closer.
Sorry Sir, the crowd will not retire. Let us go into your office and talk the matter over.
NO! You must have them retired.
I told the people negotiations cannot be conducted unless they retire. However they did not listen.
Mr. Merritt seemed to have readily understood that it was beyond our ability to retire the crowd so without persisting further, he motioned us to the East side of the South end of the building 1, of block one and gave us the terms on which he would consent to the return of Mr. Ueno. Prior to giving us the terms, he said, had he kept Mr. Ueno in the camp jail, there was the danger of his been mobbed by 100 or so men. To which I readily defied him by asking him to produce those 100 or so who favors Tayama. Do you see how many are here backing us to the limit for his release?
The terms were:
1. To disperse the crowd.
2. Not to stage another mob demonstration.
3. Not to storm the jail and free Mr. Ueno after he is returned here.
These terms were announced to the crowd and it was my duty to see that the agreements be carried out, and I promised that the report of his return will be made public at 6 P.M. at Mess Hall 22. The crowd returned to their respective barracks, satisfied.
Within the jail building, various conversations took place. One of which seems to have been later added to the terms above and stated as agreed to the people while we were in Lone Pine Jail. It was said that we promised to deliver those who thrashed Tayama which I will emphatically deny that no such agreement was ever made. I remember definitely saying that we will try through public appeal and persuade those who thrashed Tayama to report voluntarily to the chief. This we could not carry out because of the subsequent happenings which landed the negotiating Committee of five in jail, as Military Prisoners.
The Chief of Police Mr. Gilky was ordered to return Mr. Ueno to camp jail after Mr. Merritt and Capt. Hall surveyed the situation and reported that all was quiet. Mr. Ueno was returned at about 4:30 PM. We conversed with him for about 10 to 15 minutes. With full satisfaction, the Committees went to Kitchen 22 for supper.
Promptly at 6 PM we were to report the result of the negotiation to the people within the Mess Hall 22, but when the hour arrived, there was such a crowd far in greater number than we have expected. The meeting again had to be held out-door. Therefore the microphone and loud-speakers which were installed within the Mess Hall were re-connected to the oil-tower, which we used it as platform in addressing the people.
Mr. Tateishi, acting as chairman, has called on Mr. Hashimoto to make the report. I was called next and Mr. Yamaguchi followed. We all reported the safe return of Mr. Ueno according to one of the terms of the agreement. The terms were made public to the people. After having delivered the message, we requested to be relieved from further responsibilities as Committee, but this request was overwhelmingly over-ruled and we were again appointed to carry on the negotiations through unanimous acclamation. The people then demanded the return of Mr. Ueno to his home tonight "unconditionally."
Up to this point, I would state the negotiations which we carried out that very afternoon terminated successfully in our favor 100%.
Hard as we have tried to postpone the negotiation on the marrow, the people will not consent to it. Mr. Hashimoto who spoke at the top of his voice, trying hard to persuade the people in postponing the negotiation on the marrow was shouted down vigorously.
There was nothing else we can do but to comply with their wishes. The crowd has already started for the jail. We descended from the platform to head them off, fearing that they may take the matter into their own hands. When we neared the jail, we saw hundreds of sympathizers were already there and were pounding on the door of the jail building. To the best of our ability we persuaded them not to and told Mr. Ueno through the opened window not to leave the jail under any circumstance. The proof that he didn't is that he was jailed with us the following morning at Bishop.
We the negotiating committee went into the building. At the entrance, I was stopped and was about to be bayonetted by one of the irrational soldiers. He menacingly had the bayonet pointed at my breast. Unflinchingly, I told him that I was one of the committee, confirmed by an internal police. He then permitted my entrance.
Whilst waiting for Mr. Merritt, George Hayakawa wanted to know why was he being black listed as an informer. I told him he ought to know the answer to that question better than any one of us. Look
Shimazu interrupted and inquired why was he being black listed. I told him this was the first time I happened to hear of his name. He said the reason he was being called an "Inu" (informer) was because he in performance of his duty as an officer of law, went to arrest Mr. Ueno, to which I assured him that he need not be afraid. Any person in performance of his duty as an officer of the law, we do not brand him as an informer. I will report and clear you later.
James Oda wanted his identity cleared, stating that the real James Oda who was the agent of F.B.I. left for Savage, Minnesota, about two weeks ago. This clarification was made to the resident through Bill Tanabe after the incident over the phone while the people were gathered in one of the Mess Hall. His fears disappeared instantly and thanked me with the genuine feeling of relief. I am sure any one would feel likewise under the situation.
Captain Hall arrived. He tried in vain to locate Mr. Merritt at his apartment and elsewhere, but Mr. Merritt was nowhere to be found. Mr. Williams, Assistant Chief of Police tried to locate Mr. Gilky the chief, but in vain. He repeatedly stated that he would ask the chief to release Mr. Ueno if he was here. He himself could not without authority.
Capt. Hall after exhausting every means of locating Mr. Merritt, came in to discuss the situation with us. I as spokesman have assumed the responsibility to negotiate with the Captain. The conversations were as follows:
Capt. Hall, we are sorry but we were forced to return to demand the unconditional release of Mr. Ueno. Will you please allow us to take him in order to satisfy the mob?
You boys have promised not to stage another mob demonstration, and yet you have. You have not kept your promise.
It is not that we did not keep our promise.
Well, you did not.
We admit that we were not able to told them back. They preceeded [preceded] us here. For the sake of peace won't you please allow us to take Mr. Ueno back with us? Please Captain Hall, please.
How can I trust and believe that you would not let him escape?
We promise upon our words of honor.
You haven't kept your promise of this afternoon; how can I believe you would not let him escape.
How can we let him escape? There are the watch towers with machine guns and search lights with guards maning [manning] them day and night. Barbed wire fences all around us. It is impossible to escape. Furthermore if he did escape, how far can he go before he will be recognized as Japanese? He has to go tens of miles in every direction to get to a town through the endless desert, and when he arrives in any town, he will be arrested without question, don't you think so?
You sure present good argument, but I am sorry I can't order his release.
It's just for temporary, sir. If you will allow him to return to his home for the night, the people will quiet down after a good night's rest. The tension will ease in the morning. So please Capt. Hall, say yes, won't you?
I am afraid you wouldn't permit his trial.
Why not Captain. We know he is not guilty. He says it so too. We will guarantee he will stand trial. Should he refuse or should the people object to his trial, I will stand responsible and will take the punishment.
But you are not guilty.
I am not but I will be guilty if I helped to cheat justice. So please, Captain Hall, for the sake of peace, please won't you?
As a soldier, I cannot.
I understand your situation, Captain. I am a veteran, and having been a soldier myself once, I understand. But you are a man of intelligence.
I am flattered.
I mean it Captain. Please for once, see this thing from our point of view.
I appeal to your human nature, and I wish if you would judge it and decide it, not as a soldier, but as one of us for the sake of peace. I am sure you do, and it's the only way to avoid bloodshed. Please say yes, Capt. Hall. If Mr. Ueno is permitted to go home, these people will be satisfied, and a good night's sleep will change their feeling.
Mr. Yamaguchi has alternately spoken, trying his best to convince Capt. Hall. I will leave it to him to relate what he had said.
However a very serious point deciding the responsibility resting on the question must be stated to clarify the issue.
All right Capt. Hall, if you do not care to listen to our request, and if anything should happen, then the responsibility rests upon you and not with us Committees. Are you ready to assume that responsibility?
Yes! I will be responsible.
Now, regardless of what happened subsequent to that question, Capt. Hall muse be held solely responsible.
Capt. Hall realizing the gravity of the situation went and consulted other officers who were on the other side of the counter. It was my firm belief that he was consulting the situation with them and on the permissability [permissibility] of releasing Ueno temporarily. After speaking to the officers, he then went out of the building toward the guard house next to the highway. Undoubtedly while he was there, the incident which I have titled "Murder at Camp Manzanar," has happened. An incident which will go on the pages of the United States History as one of the most shameful and blackest pages depicting the disgraceful actions of the soldiers of the most Democratic Nation on earth.
Relating the incident in minute detail, I will proceed to state as I have seen it with my own eyes.
Prior to the firing, I and several others have heard a sergeant going from soldier to soldier, quoting to them, "Remember Pearl Harbor." This to my judgment was nothing other than coaching the boys to shoot. Shortly after the Sergeant was again making the round and this time ordered the boys to don their gas masks. Many of us saw them putting it on. The crowd undoubtedly must have seen it too because they moved back almost to the wall of the building. They were very orderly. There was no excuse whatever which the soldiers need to get excited, because whenever the situation demanded, I went out to remind the crowd of the danger. I asked them to be patient a little while longer. Please be calm and keep quiet. Let not your conduct lead to irreparable incident. He who feels so brave may come out of the crowd, away from the crowd and do your jeering. Otherwise quit your nonsense, because not you but those next to you may be made to suffer from your cowardice.
I again went out to see what was the commotion when I heard screams. He was being pushed back at the point of a bayonet. The pain unintentionally has prompted him to yell in agony. Though they were not causing any noticeable disturbance, I asked them to disperse and leave the negotiations to the Committees. We are on the very verge of success.
Since then they have kept very quiet. At times I thought they have left. In fact I feared the stillness was too profound. Something was in the air. So I looked out the window to ascertain their presence. Just at this very moment the soldiers were putting on their Gas Masks. The crowd must have seen it. They were under perfect control and the soldiers have absolutely no excuse even to use tear gas, not speaking of firing Tommy Guns, Riot Guns, and Machine Guns, unless they purposely did it with an intention to kill, a deliberate murder.
Almost exactly to the minute, I heard the Tear Gas Bomb explode -- at 9:27 PM. I instinctively uttered "Tear Gas!" and saw through the window a cloud of Gas was being blown South by rather a strong wind. No sooner after the gas cleared, a Sergeant came in excitedly and announced "Two down" and asked two boys to bring them in. Two inductees readily responded, but were stopped and were substituted by two Japanese internal police who went out and brought one of the victims in. At first I believed the boy was badly gassed, because he was breathing rather laboriously without any sign of being hit. But when an Army Medical Officer turned the flap of the coat, I saw blood and the poor boy was seriously hurt in the stomach below the navel. I judged it to be buck shot wounds, because there were at least three punctures visible. We learned his name was Katsuji Kanazawa, age 22, who later died in the hospital.
So! This is the way of American Democracy! What a shame. A disgrace to the Army. Why can't you fire over their heads? It would have been just as effective.
Well, that's what happens in a riot, uttered the Sergeant.
Was it a riot or was it a deliberate murder? I say murder in the first degree, unpardonable and unforgivable. Heavens! If only I had a gun, I would have shot each and every one of those damnable cowards. Could U.S. ever be proud of her soldiers? Soldiers who don the uniform of a great nation? I will not forget and will someday bring this matter before the tribunals of the world.
Capt. Hall came in with the gravest concern. No doubt that expression of intense worry tells me he now realizes the terrible mistake he made. In answer to the inquiry made from San Francisco concerning this incident, Capt. Hall replied, "Yes, I have the boys who done the firing." A Sergeant was confirming it by snifing [sniffing] at the end of the muzzle. This without question betrays the undisciplined actions of the soldier beyond all questions of doubt that they fired without "order."
Regardless of whatever cause there might have been other than a direct charge by the mob, that have led up to the firing, the soldiers can never extricate themselves from the cowardly act. The Army claims that the Japanese have thrown rocks at them, which
Some claim because the Japanese sang their National Anthem "Kimigayo." Yes, I heard them singing but what's wrong about it? Does it justify the soldiers to shoot to kill? If singing of Japanese National Anthem justifies killing, then the Army may order the killing of each and every one of the Japanese without exception. The charges the Army makes to justify their shameful shooting are so flimsy, they are not worthy of consideration. It reflects more as disgrace on them than justification.
My contentions is, it is not because the Japanese threw the rocks, or because they sang the Japanese National Anthem, but it was none other than a premeditated murder, urged on the soldiers by the Sergeant who made the rounds and repeatedly quoted "Remember Pear Harbor." These facts are being kept from the people. The Army wanted to extricate itself from the people. The Army wanted to extricate itself from the responsibility by blaming the Japanese. It has done its best, but no matter what subterfuge it may apply, it cannot hide the truth, not as long as those who were wounded that night live to tell the story with the incontestable evidences on their backs. It will be the greatest disgrace the U.S. Army stands to suffer as long as this country exists as a nation.
The dispersed crowd assembled in one of the Mess Hall and seemed to have discussed the situation. Over the wire, I was notified of their decision to the effect that they have decided to permit the Kitchens, the Delivery Dept., and the Oil Distributors to operate.
Personally I was happy to learn of the decision because at the morning session, it was decided to have all Kitchens throughout the camp closed. By so doing, women and children as well as those sick in bed would be forced to suffer. I had to convey that decision to Mr. Merritt, however painful it had been, but when the people have decided to keep the kitchens in operation I readily approved it. At this juncture, I have asked Mr. Bill Tanabe to report to the people that I do not wish to see any more bloodshed, therefore please tell them all to go home and retire for the night. Further demonstration is not desired.
At several occassions [occasions], reports were made to me that two died that night and the third was about to go most any minute. I have never felt so bad in my life before. The revolting sight of the victim seem to have effected even George Hayakawa, one of the degenerated informers whose spying on the Japanese had been the basic reason for this trouble has sworn openly that he no longer cares for Democracy. He is going to quit his work right now.
This shameful murder has been responsible as one of the greatest factor in solidifying the minds of the American-Japanese to become pro-Japanese with no question asked. Up to this time, there were
Leaving politics aside and continuing with the naration [narration], we the committees and Mr. Raymond Hirai, Nakagawa, and Mr. Ueno were transferred to Bishop County Jail the next morning at 4:30 AM. Harmless as we were, we were hand-cuffed and guarded with Tommy guns like desperate criminals. It sure made me laugh down in my heart instead of mad to think so many soldiers with guns and bayonets had to escort us hand-cuffed Japs to jail when one would have been sufficient.
The morning was very cold. It was intensified manifold by the speed of the semi-enclosed truck. Furthermore we were made to sit on wet floor with chunk of snow as cushion. What are we anyway, Criminals? Well, we weren't any better when we were booked as "Military Prisoners" at the Bishop's County Jail.
For three days and two nights we spent rather an uneventful dragging hours, and on the third night around seven or after, we were told to get ready for departure. I hurriedly dressed since I was already retiring. We were again handcuffed and crowded in an Army's semi-closed car and headed toward Manzanar. Not knowing where we were being taken, we speculated for a while, but when the truck was driven past the main entrance of the camp, we resigned to trust our future to fate. It was not very long after we found ourselves alighting before the Lone Pine Jail.
We were uncuffed and searched for concealed weapon. After a thorough search, we were marched into the cell. What again seemed so ridiculous was to see a dozen or more soldiers standing around us with bayonet and Tommy Guns, ready for instantaneous use. What made them so careful? Did we look so dangerous? Or were they so afraid of the Japanese? I believe they were afraid, so afraid, some of them sure appeared frightened. We simply acted non-challant [nonchalant], ignoring them completely. Undoubtedly some of them admired our guts, and others feared it.
Upon entering the cell, we were terribly surprised to find several persons whom we knew were already there. They too were surprised to see us. Within the dimly lighted cell, we greeted each other and gathered what news we can since the arrest that morning. Much to my surprise I found Mr. Ted Akahoshi, a very good friend of Mr. Ned Campbell, and Mr. Fred K. Ogura amongst them. Their presence really puzzled me, because I confidently believe Akahoshi should have been with those bunch of Informers who made that precipitous flight to Mojave C.C.C. Camp, or should have been badly beaten that night. To my estimation, he is one of those that requires watching.
My suspicion was justified after his release. We were told by Mr. Fred Ogura that Ted Akahoshi was placed amonst [amongst] us purposely to watch (spy) us. This confession was made to Fred Ogura by Ted Akahoshi himself. They were good friends, worked together ever since their arrival in Camp on March 21.
Contrary to the splendid treatment we received at Bishop under Sheriff Horton, our treatment in Lone Pine Jail at first was simply inhuman. We received food but once a day for several days. The cell was unbearably cold. There was that beautiful stove but without oil. As a Jap, none of us cared to complain, but the condition was so miserable, we finally decided to speak for our rights. This we did to chief of Police Gilky when he visited us. Since then, we received better treatment. We were fed regularly, heater was kept burning steadily day and night; we received an extra blanket each and a mattress of hay. Since then, we felt more comfortalbe [comfortable] at night. The day wasn't bad.
Some of the guards who came to watch over us were really beasts. At several occassions [occasions] they displayed their ugliness beyond those of a savage. Sometime they seemed to have imbibed liquor beyond their control and were not only wobbly on their feet, but pitifully unbalanced. They would have shot at any one of us had we not been careful. Those undisciplined, disgraceful boys serving as soldiers in the United States Army would be the criterion of all unhappy incidents connected with the force.
The most miserable experience we suffered within the Lone Pine Jail was one which the American people will never understand. We Japanese, regardless whether we were born and raised in Japan or in the United States, we were brought up with the national habit of taking a bath every night. This hereditary habit of thousands of generations were curtailed without any sign of being gratified. We had to be satisfied with sponge bath after requesting for it over and over again. We washed our clothes in the only basin within the cell; we took sponge bath using the same basin; and we washed the dishes, knives, spoons, and forks in it. Frankly we might as well have fecesed in it. This abominable existence within the most modernized nation on earth that criticizes the ways and actions of the treatment administered to those in jail of the Axis countries cannot speak too proudly for itself. There were fifteen of us within an enclosure of 20' x 20' x 18', a shameful treatment by a government that champions in Democracy.
Can America face the facts after deliberately murdering its own citizens, and through its own fault, blame the Peace Negotiators and incarcerated them for over a month like unwanted dogs and cats?
Whatever methods the official may employ in trying to break our morale, they have failed. The inmates have readily adjusted themselves to the situation and spent the days leisurely and rather
This was the first Christmas and New Year in my 48 years of life, I had to welcome it in jail, but that Christmas and New Year were the grandest of all. I in fact and the others no doubt have completely forgotten that we were prisoners. And to be such prisoners for the rest of my life would be a joy instead of sorrow. In appreciation of the kindness the people have so unselfishly bestowed on us, The following letters were sent to the Free Press to thank the residents.
To the people of Manzanar:
We who are looking out through the bars wish to thank the people of Manzanar for the profound kindness and sympathies shown us, most sincerely. Never in our lives have we spent a happier Christmas before. Your kindness in remembering us through those trying hours of Manzanar will be cherished along with the sweetness and joys of the season. "Happy New Year"
To the people of Manzanar:
Within the confine of the solid walls, we sing, play, and entertain to while away the day. Never have I seen so many talents in so limited a number. A clairvoyant, psychic, card and palm reading, singing and acting in endless rotation, day after day, night after night, dispelling all cares of this chaotic world.
Your lovely gifts, generously loaded with sweets heave added happiness upon happiness, joy upon joy, and have even helped to span the wee hours of the night with heavenly dreams. What a pleasant life within the gray walls of the Jail.
We who are being held in custody wish to tank you, and Rejoice with you, the Glory and splendor of this Wonderful New Year.
The Inmates.
To the people of Manzanar:
Thanks to the people of Manzanar for the united efforts in delivering us from incarceration. We feel boundlessly indebted to you.
On the other hand, let us not forget the price paid in securing peace and tranquility for this Center. The martyrs and the wounded who suffered excruciating pains for the deliverence of this camp from those Betrayers of our race, must not be forgotten in the midst of joy and clamor of this world.
Let us, my dear people of Manzanar, "Remember their souls in our prayers, and implore Allmerciful God to enlighten us in the proper guidance of this Center.
Again, repeating my most sincere expression of appreciation for your generous support, I thank you all in behalf of
The Committee
Likewise, a letter of Condolence was sent to Mr. & Mrs. K. Ito:
Dear Mr. & Mrs. K. Ito:
Believing that we will be released soon, we waited to extend to you our sympathies in person, but since we now feel convinced that it may be sometime before we can call on you, we, the Committees and the fellow inmates wish to extend you our most sincere condolence at the irreparable loss of your dear beloved son. May that the All-merciful God sends this conforting [comforting] sweet rays into your hearts, and into the hearts of your dear ones to ease the pain He alone can soothe.
We, who are being held in custody feel ashamed of ourselves in our failure. We sincerely beg for your forgiveness and understanding. Sharing in your unbearable griefs and in the unselfish love of your son, we have said prayers for his soul here in jail as soon as we were informed of his burial. We regret very much not being able to he present at the rites.
Again, repeating our most affectionate expression of sorrow, we shall now close with the promise to continue remembering his soul in our prayers. May the blessings of God be with you, and may your tears of sufferings on earth be the tears of joy in the Kingdom of God ever lasting.
Very sincerely yours,
J.Y. Kurihara
Identical letter of condolence was sent to Mr. & Mrs. K. Kanazawa.
On the morning of January 9, a letter of Sympathy was sent to those wounded and recuperating in the Hospital.
Mr. Hatanaka et. al:
We, the committee, who are still being held in custody at Lone Pine, wish to extend to you our most sincere regret over the failure of our negotiations and the tragedy resulting in excruciating pains you were made to suffer. We honestly hope and pray that God grant you the strength to remain within the limit of human ingenuity to restore you to your original self.
Your sufferings and our incarceration are infinitismaly [infinitesimally] insignificant in comparison to the extreme sacrifice suffered by our fellow residents; Messrs. Ito and Kanazawa. But however insignificant our part played in this drama, it has been gratifying to the extent that the people of Manzanar can hereafter live in peace, and enjoy the
Please hold tight on to the thread of hope with the faith of God your courage and assurance to recovery. Let us enjoy together the fruit of victory with the happy residents whose faces are no longer marred with fear.
May the year 1943 be yours and our greatest pride, a year of peace and tranquility, the coverted rights of the victims of this lunatic world,
Yours sincerely,
During our stay in jail, the newly appointed committee of Four visited us on January 5, 1943, and related how hard they are working to have us released. I requested the Committee through Mr. Ozamoto to do everything they can to have those who have wives and children be released immediately. He said he would and inquired if I can take it. Yes, I can but just because I can does not mean that wives and children must be made to suffer. He also stated that strikes are ineffective and that the kitchens are to function as usual. I was glad to hear it so because it was not my liking to close the kitchens in the first place. I complained about the unsanitary conditions and requested them to see what they can do about it. Two days later we received a tub in which we may take a bath. However we were not to enjoy its use very long, because on the morning of January 9, we received orders to pack. Wither we were to be taken was a complete mystery to us.
At this time we received an official order on our transfer to Moab, Utah, from Assistant Chief Police Williams. The body of the letter appears as follows:
Memorandum from: Project Director, Ralph P. Merritt
To: Toshiro Kaku
Bob Matsuda
Bill Tanabe
Harry Hashimoto
Raymond Hirai
Ben Kishi
Joseph Kurihara
Kazuo Suzukawa
Shigetoshi Tateishi
Harry Ueno
Kenji Yamaguchi
Frank Ego
Koichi (Bill) Tsuji
Naoji (Bill) Kuga
Masaaki Tanaka
I have this day received word from Washington that you are to be moved from Manzanar to Moab, Utah on Saturday, January 9, 1943.
There has been established at Moab, Utah, a relocation center where you will reside pending final disposition of your status.
As you all have been informed, the National Director has established a Hearing Committee of Three persons: Deputy Director Elmer Rowalt,
This move was recommended by the Committee of Four from the Center, on behalf of your best interest, and was ordered by the National Director.
I have been assured by Director Myer that each of you will be given a fair and speedy hearing.
Sincerely yours,
Ralph P. Merritt.
We were given seats at the rear half of the Grayhound Coach. Hurrah! for the distinguished sixteen. To the sixteen of us there were sixteen soldiers guarding us day and night throughout the length of the route from Lone Pine, California to Moab, Utah, and approximate distance of 1100 miles. We appreciated the service given us. The Army cooked and waited on us, the porter made and unmade our beds. We enjoyed the meals, the services, and the ride, but didn't think the guards were necessary. However the soldiers had their orders therefore we can't blame them for standing guard at both ends of the coach and in the rest room. Undoubtedly they must have felt more like fools than soldiers on duty.
We alighted at Thompson from whence we were taken to the present Moab Relocation Center on an open truck. The morning was freezing cold. We felt the cold penetrating to the very core of our bones. The top of my head felt as if it was going to crack open, and the ears stung with cold. Thank heavens, the ride wasn't very long. We soon found ourselves within the confine of the camp, a former C.C.C. Camp of the size of a single block of Manzanar. Here we made ourselves at home with the forlorn thought of having been casted on a barren isles.
Mr. R.R. Best the project director was very nice and gentle to us. I readily saw he was a man with wordly [worldly] experience and capable of understanding. This favorable impression at first sight is responsible for my conduct. Returning good for good. Here again, we were like a bunch of wild beasts in a cage. Soldiers guarding us 24 hours a day, following us wherever we were forced to go by natures' habit. Guns were loaded and bayonetted with nervous fingers on the trigger. Personally I didn't mind them. In fact I really pitied them, guarding us in the cold throughout the night� when the thermometer registered around 10 degrees or less during the wee hours of the morning.
On the second day since my arrival, I started working by volunteering as Kitchen help. My prime purpose was to work in co-operation with the Director and create happy atmosphere thereby hastening the day of our release, especially for those who left their wives and children at Manzanar. Happily the majority co-operated with the same feeling with the exception of few.
Remembering the kindness shown us by the people of Manzanar, I again wrote the following letter to thank them a few days after we landed here.
To the people of Manzanar:
To you good people of Manzanar, we hereby wish to thank you most sincerely for the kindness you have shown us in the past, and for the sympathies you have shown us since our incarceration. We really do appreciate it very much, and will carry it through life as cherished and tender memory. Our only regret is that we are not able to thank you individually in person. Pitifully our friendship, sweet and lovely as it has been, it was nipped in the height of its beauty by the hands of wily gods, but however cruel may the interference be, the tender memory cultivated with the purity of delicious water at the foot of Mt. Williamson has been so definitely rooted, months of longing will only tend to mellow the fruits into golden tears of joy, when fate brings us together again.
Happily, the God of Justice is giving us the strength to bear this predicament through with manly courage, and His divine light to guide us in the hour of our need. Though we have been isolated in this lonely canyon where the hands of nature have mercilessly left its rugged work, we feel content, knowing that God is ever-present everywhere throughout this endless expanse. Its stillness is mystifying and profoundly awe-inspiring. No wonder, the pioneers of this State have found satisfaction to praise their God in this land of Serenity. This glorious impression alone is sufficient to better the feeling, free from worldly cares, fear and unrest.
Mr. Best, the director of this camp, as the name indicates, is the best of all the Project Director that I have met. I doubt even if Mr. Coverly, the director whom we all admired and loved, can command more respect for his understanding, character, and fairness than Mr. Best. So, like a gentleman, we will cooperate with a gentleman.
Sincerely --- J.K.
Various packages of gifts were received from Kitchen #27 among which was the most useful article, "Geta." Again I was obliged to write and thank Mr. Isotani, the President of the Kitchen Worker Union and its members.
Dear. Mr. Isotani:
The package of wooden shoes, addressed to me was received today. It was immediately distributed among the boys. We all feel grateful over your generosity and do hereby thank you most sincerely. Please convey the same to the thoughtful people of Mess Hall #27.
We are enjoying the best of health, best of climate, and the best of food with Mr. Best, our Project Director. We have no complaints to make. Above all, you topped everything with the best of gifts. Thanks very much.
We are destined to remain here indefinitely. Our chance to return to Manzanar is completely out of the question. However we are happy, so please dispose any anxiety over us.
Again repeating our most affectionate expression of gratitude, we now close, hoping that Destiny bring us together again.
Sincerely,
The following is the letter of thanks to the People of Manzanar through the:
Chairman of Block Leaders,
Town Hall, Manzanar.
The packages containing various articles of necessity were delivered to me this afternoon. It was immediately distributed among the boys. They were so happy, it looked as if a bunch of youngsters were examing their gifts around a Christmas Tree. We really feel grateful over your generosity, and do hereby thank you most sincerely. Please convey same to the residents of the Center.
We are destined to remain here indefinitely. Our desire to return to live amongst you must be fulfilled only in dream. However we are happy and that happiness made happier by the constant flow of gifts from you.
The boys are in the best of health, enjoying the best of climate, and the best of food under Project Director Best. So please dispose any anxiety for us. Wherever we are or whatever we may be sent, we shall always remember the kindness you have lavished on us as one of our most cherished memories.
Again, repeating our most sincere expression of gratitude, we now close, hoping and praying that fate brings us together once more than we may renew our parted friendship with the blessings of God with all its glory.
Most respectfully,
Letter from Mr. Ito
Feb. 17, 1943
Dear Friends --
We are very sorry we took so long to answer your nice letter. The reason was, when received your letter, they told us you had moved. We did not know we could reach you by letter, until Mrs. Ueno came over to visit us the other day. She visits us quite often. We are all very sorry, that you had to depart from us. We know exactly how everyone of you felt. We are very thankful to you, for trying to accomplish something for the benefit of the Japanese people. You have nothing to be ashamed of. You did your best. We always think of you. It was just another one of those thing. My brother just happen to be the one. He was the youngest boy, only seventeen years of age. He died right away, without suffering. We are taking him as a ni-hon-jin soldier. It took us time to sort of forget about him,
All of the time people are asking, I wonder what has happened to you fellows. We always tell them, you're at so and so place and doing fine. So you can see, the people here worry about you too. The place here is running along fine. The weather here is just fine, in fact it's hot just like summer. Now I want to say, not only for us, but for the population of Japanese people here, we wish you all the best luck and happiness. Instead of worrying about this and that, just forget everything and take good care of your health. That's all we ask you to do. That is very important to you. I am sorry I don't have much to say. Hoping to hear from all of you again soon.
Always be your friend
Ito family
In response to this brave and an exemplary letter the following letter was sent:
My dear Mr. & Mrs. K. Ito:
Have received your letter this day, your very brave and an examplary [exemplary] letter. It struck deep into our hearts. We in fact feel terribly ashamed of ourselves, complaining over the slight inconveniences we are being put to, when you are bearing with super-human courage the irreparable loss of your dear beloved son. If amends could be made, we will gladly exhaust every means to do it, but since it is beyond human ability our only course left is to pray for his soul. As I have promised I am remembering his soul in my prayers every night.
We who acted in good faith as Negotiating Committee do appreciate the sympathies of the people. Our only request is, let them not forget the supreme price paid for peace and tranquility. Should the residents again permit the propagation of those undesirables who made the precipitous flight that day, then the supreme sacrifice made by you and the excruciating pains suffered by those who were
Learning that the people have cooperated and given your son a Hero's rite is the greatest news we received since our incarceration. We feel greatly relieved because we wondered why the whole camp didn't turn out en masse. Our next wish is to see that he be given an honorary burial at Yasukuni Shrine, as one of the first two who braved the danger and died a soldiers' death. We feel very proud of him, and the heros [heroes] of Yasukuni Shrine no doubt will feel the same.
We are all in the best of health, enjoying beautiful scenes and beautiful climate. Have no complaint whatever to make. To return to Manzanar is completely out of the question. However we do not mind, because we are happy, so please dispose all anxiety over us.
In conclusion, may we again extend to you our sincere condolence at the irreparable loss of your beloved son, and may the blessings of God be with you forever. Until we meet again, Goodby [Goodbye].
Sincerely yours,
Whatever the opinion of others against Tom Ozamoto maybe, I have taken the liberty to write to him the following letter.
Dear Mr. Ozamoto:
I ought to have written to you sooner and thanked you for all the troubles you have undertaken for us, especially for me. I appreciate it very very much. Judging from what I have heard, and having been fully informed of our fate, I believe there is nothing more you can do for us, therefore I would ask you to desist any further attempt to have us returned to Manzanar. You have your wife and baby, your aged mother and father to think of. Remember! They come before us all.
Speaking for myself, I am happy and content with everything here. The climate is good, the scenes are beautiful, and the food excellent. In fact, I have no complaint to make. Above all, the people of Manzanar have been so nice to us, I am really happy, though isolated in this lonely canyon. Kindly do not feel uneasy over my fate. It is my Destiny determined by Providence according to the path I have taken. I do not blame you or the other members of the Committee for the outcome of the negotiations. I am a man, and as a man, I will take my medicine however bitter it may be.
By the way Tom, will you please return the copies of the Constitution and By-Laws I left with you? I believe there is a possibility of its usage at my next destination. If I am not asking too much please mail it immediately, won't you?
Having nothing more to say, I shall now close, wishing you and your dear family, the best of health and all the happiness of the world. Whenever it may be, or wherever we shall meet, please remember, it will be the same old Joe to you.
Until we meet again, Goodbye & Good Luck.
Sincerely,
On February 12, each and every one of us received the following letter from National Director D.S. Myer, Washington, D.C.
Mr. Joseph Kurihara, c/o Mr. Raymond Best Action Project Director Moab Relocation Center, Moab, Utah
Dear Mr. Kurihara:
I have appointed a board of review in my office to consider whether you should be permitted to return to Manzanar for the purpose of residing there. The board of review has recommended that you not be permitted to return, and I have approved that recommendation.
Sincerely yours,
D.S. Myer, Director
Such was the hearing promised us by the National Director D.S. Myer. To my opinion, it was not a hearing conducted in the Court of Law, but it was nothing other than a "decision." There was no bona-fide charge against me. Therefore in order to justify my arrest, Mr. Throckmorton claims that I have spoken at the Kibei Meeting held on August 8, 1942. If such was the charge, WHY then the others who spoke that night of the meeting, numbering around twelve were not taken into custody and later segregated and isolated in this lonely canyon? What a flimsy charge. So ridiculous I would be ashamed of myself if I were the Attorney of the Center.
In self-defense, I have stated as follows:
In defense, I object to be relocated without a Fair Trial in the Court of Law. I was chosen as one of the five Negotiating Committee to settle the trouble, and acted in its capacity. Held in Jail ever since (Sunday Dec. 6, 1942) without a specific charge. I fought for justice against Fred Tayama and the stool pigeons who wave the flag as pro-American and not against the Administration. I will continue to fight against the JACL no matter to what camp I may be sent. No question such as pro-Axis or pro-American enters in this trouble. It started from a beating administered to Fred Tayama, an informer and a hypocrite. Likewise it was not the cause of December 7 celebration.
If I am found guilty at a trial, you may sentence me as you see fit. I wish to be sent to a Concentration Camp since I am a person of dual citizenship, if I am to have my choice. I have declared
My attempt to organize the Manzanar R.C. Federation for the good of the camp was in the making. Its By-Laws and Constitution is now in the hands of Mr. T. Ozamoto - 24-4-3 with whom I left for consultation and advice.
My constructive suggestion is: Get rid of all stool pigeons in the camps. Then, you'll find peace and tranquility with 100% cooperation from the residents of the camps, instead of riots, such as had already happened at Santa Anita, Poston, and Manzanar. It will happen in the remaining camps sooner or later.
I do not wish to claim any bouquet, but for your information, I wish to ask you to investigate and ascertain, who settled the dispute which was about to result in mob violence among the 50 odd carpenters of the Construction Dept. under Mr. H. Brown, immediately after he assumed responsibility when Mr. Atkins left.
Again, during the month of November, similar disagreement actively boiled among the 170 odd members of the Construction Department which was about to flare into an open fight amongst the crews. I was again asked to intervene, which I did and settled it to the satisfaction of all concerned. Mr. Kunishige and Mr. Enseki are fully informed about it.
Likewise during November, I have interviewed and settled the largest gang dispute within the gang of over 200 members. It would have wound up in a terrible grievances had it not been stopped in time. Names of the leaders will not be disclosed because one of the boys held in custody was told he is apprehended because he is supposed to be the leader of a minor gang. J.K.
This self defense was sent to Mr. D.S. Myer at the advice of Attorney Throckmorton and the committee of Four. No expected court hearing was held neither here at Moab, Utah, or at Washington, D.C. It was none other than a Decision handed down. Such is the justice rendered by the country which is champion in World Democracy.
The outcome from the terrible inconvenience we were made to suffer especially within the Lone Pine Jail, and the excruciating pains suffered by those who were hospitalized, and the supreme sacrifice made by Messrs. Ito and Kanazawa, there are many gratifying results obtained, one of which is that our suspicions were confirmed by the precipitous flight made by those informers and betrayers of the Japanese Race. They are listed as follows:
*Akahoshi, Ted -- 57 -- 5-10-1
Aono, John -- 29 -- 29-1-4
Aramaki -- 53 -- 12
Ando, Yoshio -- 31 -- 6-8-4
Araishi, Jim -- 27 -- 6-5-3
Ajisaka, Hajime -- 27 -- 17-1-4
Ariyoshi, Koji -- 29 -- 2-11-1
*Fukuzawa -- 35 -- 17-10-1
*Hashii, Ieji -- 37 -- 5-12-3
*Hayakawa, Geo -- 27 -- 14-6-3
*Higashi, Kiyoshi -- 30 -- 28-11-3
*Imai, Tom -- 29 -- 19-14-1
*Ikeda, Sam -- 55 -- 28-6-4
Itano, Joseph -- 29 -- 25-13-4
Ishizuka, Henry -- 27 -- 23-8-4
Undoubtedly there must be others but since most of them having taken flight, the people no longer need to pass the days in fear and unrest. Prior to the incident there were approximately twenty whom we unfalteringly will brand as Reds as well as Informers and Betrayers left for Savage, Minnesota, as instructors and interpreters of the United States Army.
The difficulty in restoring peace and order within the Center rested on the decision taken by the Project Director. If broader view was taken upon the incident and the Negotiating Committees were returned to the Center, the activities of the Center would have returned to normal without the aid of the Heiwa Dan (Peace Maintenance Organization). Their services may be appreciated by the Project Director Merritt, but will not bring satisfaction to the residents as long as the emotions of the people are being suppressed. Mr. Ozamoto trying to maintain peace by suppression will not bring the harmony desired. The residents may remain quiet subjected by force, but beware, the stillness on the surface does not mean satisfaction. It is the Japanese trait to tolerate in silence regardless of the feeling they harbor within, that suppressed energy will explode with him as the central figure. I sympathize with him knowing that it was not through the lack of "guts" that he failed to carry out his original intention of calling a general strike should the Project Director Merritt fail to meet the people's wish. He has his wife and a child to think of, and his aged mother and father beside. Furthermore, had it not been for the fact that there were two who were shot to death that night, he undoubtedly would have carried his intention through, but with such grave responsibilities resting upon his shoulders with the vivid events staring in his face, I could not and will not blame him for having altered his intention and co-operated with the Project Director Merritt. But on the other hand, he has literally crushed the greatest opportunity ever placed within the grip of his hand. His name would have become the by-word of the Japanese families, uttered in pride by children who know not what it's all about, had he fought to the limit for the rights of the people by sacrificing his all.
It is deplorable that others with more freedom of speech and void of obligations have not taken up the fight. It is true the Committee of Four were appointed by the people, but had those who are free and able have unselfishly championed in various public affairs, they would have been appointed without question. This is no time for any of us to lay down and swallow disagreeable pills. We who are despised and hated, trampled and persecuted, ostracized and corralled like prisoners, should fight and fight with every vigor to assert our rights. Let us not be slackers! Let us fight! Yes, fight! fight to up-hold the tradition, the honor, and the pride of the Japanese Race as Japanese!
SUMMARY
The facts of the incident purposely distorted to create sensational news for public consumption were heralded throughout the Nation in the leading Chronicles as "Pro-Axis group Celebrating the Anniversary of December 7." The statement was given out by Project Director Merritt. I consider his statement was given out by Project Director Merritt. I consider his statement as one of the most cowardly concocted alibi issued in order to cover the doubly coward actions of the U.S. Army in charge under Captain Hall.
It is without question the lack of knowledge in Japanese psychology, understanding, and ability on the part of the authorities. It reflects on their incompetency. Justly speaking Director Merritt cannot be wholly blamed for the various reasons that finally culminated into such major disturbance, but it was due principally to his lack of leadership. Had he exercised his authority to the full extent of his right instead of being dictated by his domineering Assistant Project Director Ned Campbell whom the residents of the Center despised worse than the lowly rats, would have brought better results. This incident wholly pivots on the Assistant Director and on his minions, the lowest of the lowly rats, whose decency is so low, the belly of the crawling rattlesnake would seem like a milky way. They kept the Administration and the F.B.I. informed of the residents and kept them in constant fear and unrest.
The leaders were former J.A.C.L. official, well known to the residents due to their position held prior to induction. They were Fred Tayama, former president of the J.A.C.L., Los Angeles Chapter; Togo Tanaka, Editor of English Dept. of the Rafu Shimpo; Joe Masaoka, brother of Mike Masaoka, National Secretary of J.A.C.L.; Carl Yoneda, a confirmed Communist and a member of Brotherhood of San Francisco Longshoreman; degenerates of the Niseis, and Ted I. Akahoshi; former president of the Japanese Produce Dealers Association, Los Angeles; Ieji Hashii, Ranch Foreman, Imperial Valley, California; Tokutaro Nishimura (Slocum) Veteran of World War #1, chairman of the Anti-Axis Group of L.A., the scums of the Isseis.
Fred Tayama, taciturn baby faced sneak was the most treacherous of the Nisei group. He was thrashed in his apartment on the night of December 5, by several assailants, whose identity could not be established. Mr. Ueno was arrested on the strength of Fred Tayama's words as suspect. Mr. Ueno was then immediately taken to Independence Jail by Ned Campbell, who like Tayama hated the very sight of the suspect. This act of jailing Mr. Ueno in the jail out of the camp compound was the basic reason responsible for the mob demonstration.
Furthermore, the demonstration took place on December 6, resulting from the thrashing administered to Fred Tayama the night before. It is evident therefore the demonstration was not the celebration of the anniversary of December 7. Why then was it necessary for the Administration to blame the pro-Axis group? Why was Project Director Merritt evading the true issue when he was positively informed at the beginning of the Negotiation?
Taking the liberty to contradict the Director's statement, I would like to ask Mr. Merritt, why then the pro-Americans and the pro-Axis lived and enjoyed side-by-side in the Center? Though I am a confirmed pro-Japanese, I have enjoyed association with the pro-Americans without any friction. Among the pro-Americans, Mr. T. Slocum was the most outspoken person I have met. Regardless of his political affiliation, I have not only respected him but admired him for his guts, and have exchanged salutation without prejudice.
Mr. Togo Tanaka likewise has definitely stated his stand as pro-American to me. He had my respect as well as from many others of contra-political beliefs. Neither he nor Mr. Slocum was molested. Mr. Slocum has publicly stated before six or seven hundred Japanese in Mess Hall 15, at the Manzanar Citizen Federation open forum that he was 100% pro-American. Yet he was not threatened nor molested for his political affiliation.
We Japanese do not interfere with one's religious belief. He has his right to profess in whatever dinomination [denomination] he cares to belong, and we respect it. Therefore for over eight months no disturbance due to differences in political beliefs has occurred within the Center. Why then was this disturbance on December 6? Stool pigeons!
Beyond all question of doubt, this disturbance culminated from many months of tolerance by the Japanese people. It was at the bursting point several months before December 5, but somehow it has miraculously encased the ever-expanding concentrated hatred of the 10,000 people to that fatal day when some one has touched it off. Mr. Ueno was jailed on Tayama's accusation, the people unanimously rose to fight to free Mr. Ueno. I personally believe even if Mr. Ueno was really guilty of the charge, the people would have fought with the same vigor and determination as they have that day from sheer
In the meantime those who feared bodily harm have made the precipitous flight out of the camp. Some have sought haven in the homes of their relatives, some in the offices of the Free Press, Dispatch, and Police Headquarter. The most notorious ones whose conscience was loaded with guilt sought protection in the guard shack at the main entrance. We were very much surprised to find some whom we have never suspected were amongst those whose conscience had betrayed themselves. There were around sixty, their families with them, who made that precipitous flight, leaving everything behind, caring for nothing except their life.
Shame and disgrace were brought down upon the families of those who pretended to be decent and trustful turned out to be stooges. Pitifully, they have violated the confidence of their friends, and the trust of their parents. Mothers and wives were praying and wailing; fathers were gnashing their teeth in shame and in despair, not knowing how to face the critical eyes of the neighbors. Seppuku would have been the only acceptable apology they could have offered to the residents and more so to the parents and brothers and sisters of those two who were murdered. Instead some of them said to have vehemently denied their sons guilt in the face of their flight. What can we expect from the parents of those informers, the very product out of the same block?
However the result were very satisfactory. The Center was cleared of informers; the domineering Assistant Director Ned Campbell ousted; camouflage work thrown out; self-government died in fright on the eve of its birth; and a general shake-up of office nincompoops.
Now, had it been the celebration of the December 7 anniversary, what made it necessary for those sixty to take flight in fear of their lives? Was the anniversary December 6 instead of the 7th? Were there banners flying with bold phrases, depicting the joy of the attack?
Regardless of what might have been Director Merritt's intention, he has utterly failed in his duty to the people of the Center and to the Country. The Japanese people may suffer undue criticism roused by those vicious lies, but the terrible loss suffered by the country through the decision formed by those who were sitting on the fence and the solidification of pro-Japanese elements who drifted away from American Democracy have resulted in greater calamity to the Nation as a whole.
This minor incident culminating into such great disturbance and made doubly worse by the deliberate firing with an intention to avenge those of Pearl Harbor out of those harmless civilians has decided once and forever the future course of the Japanese-American citizens. I believe without the slightest doubt, it was the last straw that shattered their democratic ideals.
However Director Merritt may try to wiggle out of the responsibility, or Captain Hall shift the blame on to the Japanese, it is hopeless. There are ten or more living evidence to tell the story. They will contradict any amount of falsification of records. The deliberate firing on the backs of the fleeing crowd had blacken the pages of American History. Could America justify herself before the tribunals of the World? Could America continue to criticize the actions of the Germans? Could America continue to preach Democracy with unblemished records to the world? NO!
Will Director Merritt be a man big enough to retract his falsehood before the public? Let us hope so. And let us not forget and let us not allow the tears to dry before justice is done.
-------by---------J.Y.K.
4/16/43 Moab, Utah