BACK THE FEDERAL OFFICIALS

The prompt and courteous reply received by the Emergency Defense Council of the local JACL this week from the Department of State is another indication of how closely the Japanese American Citizens League and other organizations of young Americans are co-operating with the constituted authorities, and that such co-operation is appreciated by those in high places.

This status must be maintained, and intensified. If we are loyal Americans, as we insist we are, we must devote our efforts to assisting those who are placed in authority. This is a prime duty in these days.

Just recently the League headquarters received communications from the Navy Department and the Justice Department as well as the Department of State, taking notice of the expressions of loyalty on the part of the National League. We must continue to maintain that happy situation.

There has been fear in some quarters that over-zealous citizens may seek to take the law into their own hands in the case of aliens. We have not heard of any instance in which second generation citizens have been guilty in this respect, and do not think we will.

But, on the other hand, the happy relations now existing call for even greater diligence on the part of the young Americans. As has been said; we are in position to render unique service, and indications are that such service is being rendered.

We think it pertinent to mention a point made by Mayor LaGuardia in a recent address. Speaking of aliens, he said:

"Many of them are 'aliens' in the technical sense of the word only. Statistics show that four out of five of them have close family ties here -- in most cases American-born children. A large number of these children are now serving in our armed forces."

That is absolutely correct. It is another reason, if one were needed, why we should uphold the federal authorities, who promise justice.