Death of A Statesman

[DKrol]

Fourth Ballot of the Democratic National Convention

Chicago Tribune, Special Edition - July 22, 1944

     The Democratic Party continued it’s convention this evening in Chicago, Illinois. The results of the fourth ballot are as follows:  Senator Harry F. Byrd, 410; Senator Harry S. Truman, 406; Assistant Secretary of the Navy James Roosevelt, 203; Secretary of Commerce Henry A. Wallace, 157. For the first time Mr. Byrd has taken a plurality of votes, but still falling short of the 589 needed to clinch the nomination. The Convention is dragging on and the delegates are getting restless. They have cast their votes for a less conventional candidate and put pressure on the status-quo. Many have called on President Joseph P. Kennedy, Sr. to intervene and give his support to a candidate.

Terror at Democratic Convention

Chicago Tribune, Special Edition - July 23, 1944

    Just as the ballots were about to cast in the fifth round of voting of the Democratic Convention terror broke free at Chicago Stadium. Chairman Frank C. Walker was gaveling the hall to order as four members of a pro-Nazi group stood up on their chairs and began firing towards the stage. Secretary of Commerce Henry A. Wallace, who was preparing to give a speech to the Delegates, was shot in the chest and died shortly after. Mr. Walker was also struck by a bullet, in his shoulder, and is in critical condition. Delegates and security wrestled the assassins to the ground within moments and removed them from the Convention. The other candidates, Senators Harry F. Byrd and Harry S. Truman, and Assistant Secretary of the Navy James Roosevelt, were escorted from Chicago Stadium to the hotel they are staying at.

Fifth Ballot of the Democratic National Convention

Chicago Tribune, Special Edition - July 25, 1944

    The Democratic Party continued it’s convention today in Chicago, Illinois, following a day of mourning for Secretary of Commerce Henry A. Wallace. The results of the fifth ballot are as follows:  Senator Harry F. Byrd, 602;  Assistant Secretary of the Navy James Roosevelt, 362; Senator Harry S. Truman, 212. Mr. Byrd secured a majority of delegates this afternoon. In his acceptance speech, Mr. Byrd paid tribute to Mr. Wallace, promised a continuation of the policies that Mr. Wallace “gave his life in support of”, and a strong defense of states’ rights. Mr. Truman was nominated as Vice President. the Byrd/Truman ticket will face off with the Republican pair of Governor Wendell Willkie and House Minority Leader Joseph W. Martin in November.

[DKrol]

Polls Put Willkie in Lead

Washington Post, Evening Edition - September 22, 1944

    With the War in Europe going sourly for the Allies, Americans are considering changing leadership in the midst. A poll from Harvard University gives the Republican Ticket, Governor Wendell Willkie, of New York, and House Minority Leader Joseph W. Martin, Jr., of Massachusetts, support from 54% of people polled. That’s compared to the 44% that supports the Democratic ticket, Senator Harry F. Byrd, Sr., of Virginia, and Senator Harry S. Truman, of Missouri. 2% of those polled said they were unsure of who to vote for. The polls also showed that the top three concerns, when deciding who to vote for, are/; the War, the recovery from the Depression, and economic regulation. Mr. Willkie is seen as the best to handle the economy, as a former industrialist and business magnet. Mr. Byrd is seen as incredibly popular in the South and parts of the West, and the choice of Mr. Truman has put the Mid-West into play for the Democrats.

Australia Allies with Japan, Germany

San Francisco Chronicle, Special Edition - October 15, 1944

    Julius Bruche, the Military Governor of Australia, set the Allied movement in the Pacific back by months. Mr. Bruche, in Tokyo, Japan, signed a treaty with Japanese Prime Minister Hideki Tojo and officially put Australia and New Zealand in line with the Axis forces. Many in the states had hoped that Mr. Bruche would join the Allies, giving a base of support for an invasion of Japan. With the loss of Australia, General Douglas MacArthur is going to have to rethink his strategy in the Pacific. The European Theater is looking, by far, as the more successful of area of operations as Lieutenant General Dwight D. Eisenhower continues to push closer to London by the day.

Wallace’s Assassins Executed

Chicago Tribune, Evening Edition - October 23, 1944

    After a speedy trial in Federal Court, the assassins of the late Secretary of Commerce Henry A. Wallace have been served with justice. A jury found that all 4 of the men arrested at the Democratic Convention in July were guilty of conspiracy, murder, and public endangerment. it was also revealed that atleast 2 of the assassins were German-nationals and members of the Nazi Party. The judge, Mr. John P. Barnes, sentenced all four men to death by electric chair last month. Early this morning the executions were carried out. Mr. Wallace’s widow was present to observe their execution.

[DKrol]

Close Race Takes Shape

Governor Wendell Willkie/Congressman Joseph W. Martin, Jr. (R) - 24
Senator Harry F. Byrd/Senator Harry S. Truman (D) - 22
New York Times, Special Edition - November 7, 1944

The first returns of the 1944 Presidential Election are coming in to our New York Bureau from across the nation. We can report at this time that Senator Harry F. Byrd has won the following states: North Carolina (14) and West Virginia ( 8 ). This gives him a total of 22 Electoral Votes. Governor Wendell Willkie has won the following states: New Jersey (16), Vermont (3), and Maine (5). This gives him a total of 24 Electoral Votes. Polls have also closed in Ohio (25), Virginia (11), and Georgia (12) but we cannot report a winner in any of these states. Mr. Willkie appears to be faring much better than either Senator Robert A. Taft (1940) or Former President Herbert C. Hoover (1932, 1936).

Willkie Lead Grows

Governor Wendell Willkie/Congressman Joseph W. Martin, Jr. (R) - 122
Senator Harry F. Byrd/Senator Harry S. Truman (D) - 62
New York Times, Special Edition - November 7, 1944

The results of the 1944 election are coming in even faster now. We can report at this time that Senator Harry F. Byrd has won the following states: Virginia (11), Georgia (12), South Carolina  ( 8 ), and Mississippi (9). This gives him a total of 62 Electoral Votes. Governor Wendell Willkie has won the following states: Ohio (25), Michigan (19), Pennsylvania (35), Massachusetts (16), and Delaware (3). This gives him a total of 122 Electoral Votes. Polls have also closed in New York (47), Maryland ( 8 ), Florida ( 8 ), Alabama (11), and Arkansas (9) but we cannot report a winner in any of these states.

College Rooting for Willkie

Governor Wendell Willkie/Congressman Joseph W. Martin, Jr. (R) - 210
Senator Harry F. Byrd/Senator Harry S. Truman (D) - 142
New York Times, Special Edition - November 7, 1944

The results of the 1944 election are coming in even faster now. We can report at this time that Senator Harry F. Byrd has won the following states: Alabama (11), Arkansas (9), Tennessee (12), Missouri (15), Texas (23), and Louisiana (10). This gives him a total of 142 Electoral Votes. Governor Wendell Willkie has won the following states: New York (47), Indiana (13), Wisconsin (12), North Dakota (4), New Hampshire (4), and Connecticut ( 8 ). This gives him a total of 210 Electoral Votes. Polls have also closed in Kentucky (11), Rhode Island (4), Oklahoma (10), Iowa (10), Arizona (4), Minnesota (11), and Illinois (28) but we cannot report a winner in any of these states.

[DKrol]

Willkie on Cusp of Victory

Governor Wendell Willkie/Congressman Joseph W. Martin, Jr. (R) - 256
Senator Harry F. Byrd/Senator Harry S. Truman (D) - 217
New York Times, Special Edition - November 7, 1944

The results of the 1944 election are coming in even faster now. We can report at this time that Senator Harry F. Byrd has won the following states: Oklahoma (10), Kentucky (11), Kansas ( 8 ), Colorado (6), Maryland ( 8 ), and Illinois (28). This gives him a total of 217 Electoral Votes. Governor Wendell Willkie has won the following states: Florida ( 8 ), Rhode Island (4), New Mexico (4), Iowa (10), Montana (4), Idaho (4), South Dakota (4) and Washington ( 8 ). This gives him a total of 256 Electoral Votes. Polls have also closed in Nebraska (6), Wyoming (3), Utah (4), Nevada (3), Oregon (6), and California (25) but we cannot report a winner in any of these states.

Willkie Wins White House

President-elect Wendell Willkie/Vice President-elect Joseph W. Martin, Jr. (R) - 305
Senator Harry F. Byrd/Senator Harry S. Truman (D) - 227
New York Times, Special Edition - November 7, 1944

The results of the 1944 election are now concluding. We can report at this time that Senator Harry F. Byrd has won the following states: Utah (4), Nevada (3), and Wyoming (3). This gives him a total of 227 Electoral Votes. Governor Wendell Willkie has won the following states: California (25), Oregon (6), Nebraska (6), and Minnesota (11). This gives him a total of 305 Electoral Votes. Mr. Willkie will become the first Republican President since Herbert C. Hoover left office in 1933.

[DKrol]

I'm going to bring this back, full time, if there is still support out there for it.

[badgate]

I'm going to bring this back, full time, if there is still support out there for it.

x badgate

[MadmanMotley]

I'm going to bring this back, full time, if there is still support out there for it.

Good god count me in, this is an awesome TL.

[DKrol]

New Congress Takes Office

Washington Post, Special Edition - January 3, 1945

    The newly elected, 79th Congress took their seats this morning. In the Senate, this puts the balance of power at 52 seats for the Democrats, 40 for the Republicans, 2 for the Progressives, and 1 for the Farmer-Labor Party. In the map above, dark red indicates two Democratic Senators, dark blue indicates two Republican Senators, pink indicates one Democrat and one Republican, green indicates two Progressives, and Gold indicates one Republican and one Farmer Labor. Senator Alben W. Barkley, a Democratic of Kentucky, will serve as Majority Leader and Senator Charles L. McNary, a Republican of Oregon, will serve as Minority Leader. In the House of Representatives,  the Republicans now hold 200 (+15), the Democrats hold 199 seats (-19), the Progressives 22 (+3), and the Farmer-Labor 16 (+1). Representative Leslie C. Arends, a Republican of Illinois, will serve as the Speaker of the House for this Republican-dominated Congress. Although the Republicans do not hold a majority of the seats, the leaders of the Progressive Party and Farmer-Labor Party have agreed to support the Republicans in order to avoid a legislative gridlock.

Willkie Sworn In

Washington Post, Special Edition - January 20, 1945

    At noon today, the first Republican president in a decade was sworn in. Wendell Willkie took the oath of office this afternoon on the South Lawn of the White House.  Supreme Court Chief Justice Harlan F. Stone administered the oath and Mr. Willkie used an old, family Bible opened to 1 Kings, Chapter 3. There was no parade or celebration due to the wartime austerity measures the government has taken. With Mr. Willkie on the South Lawn was his wife, Edith, outgoing President Joseph P. Kennedy, Sr., former President Herbert C. Hoover, and Vice President Joseph W. Martin, Jr.

Willkie Cabinet Announced

Washington Post, Special Edition - January 25, 1945

    A White House spokesman today announced the finalized members of President Wendell Willkie’s cabinet. Secretary of State Joseph C. Grew will remain at the State Department, as will Secretary of War John J. Pershing. George M. Humphrey will take over the Treasury Department, Thomas E. Dewey will take over the Justice Department, Arthur E. Summerfield will be the new Postmaster General, Henry H. Blood is taking over the Department of the Interior, Arthur M. Hyde (a Hoover cabinet secretary) will return to the Department of Agriculture, John D. Rockefeller, Jr. will take over the Department of Commerce, Theodore Roosevelt, Jr. will head the Navy Department, and Martin P. Durkin will be the new head of the Labor Department.

[DKrol]

Willkie Faces First Test of Leadership

Washington Post, Evening Edition - February 17, 1945

    The first test of President Wendell Willkie’s military leadership has arisen, according to reports from the Pacific front. Australian planes flew over the U.S. Navy base in the Philippines and, aided by Japanese bombers, rocked the Eastern Naval Fleet. Four destroyers, freshly rebuilt from the bombing of Pearl Harbor, were damaged and atleast 15 sailors were killed with scores more damaged. Various American planes were scrambled and the Australian-Japanese Force was forced to retreat. Mr. Willkie now must formulate a proper response to the assault. Reports show that Secretary of War John J. Pershing is pushing for a direct bombing of Japan, while Secretary of State Joseph C. Grew appears to be advocating for a land invasion of Australia and New Zealand. Secretary of the Navy Theodore Roosevelt, Jr., speaking to a group of reporters, said that it was unwise to spread our forces even thinner with an invasion of Australia. There are American forces fighting on the British Isles, in France, and parts of North Africa, and most of the Navy is concentrated in the Pacific.

Navy Launches Assault on Japan

Washington Post, Special Edition - February 20, 1945

    A spokesman from the Navy Department announced today that President Wendell Willkie gave the orders for a response to the bombing of the U.S. Navy base in Manila Bay, the Philippines. In the early hours of the morning the U.S. Navy began an assault on the Japanese mainland. A bomber wing began the attack on the island of Hokkaido, the Northern-most Japanese Island, and was followed by the landing of nearly 100,000 soldiers of an American-Free French-British coalition via amphibious vehicles. The spokesman announced that the death toll was “lower than expected” and that the island would be under coalition control within a week’s time.

British Islands Liberated By Eisenhower, Pound

New York Times, Special Edition - February 24, 1945

    Days after the start of the invasion of Japan, a massive success has been announced by the War Department. Secretary of War John J. Pershing, at his weekly Press Conference, informed the press that Lieutenant General Dwight D. Eisenhower and British Admiral Dudley P.R. Pound have secured the British Isles. The last of the Nazi forces were forced off English soil, leaving England for the English for the first time in four years. Mr. Pershing also announced that King-in-Exile George VI would remain in Canada for “the time being” and governing of the Isles would be left to a joint American-British Military Commission until “it is seen as fit and proper for a civilian government” to be restored. Mr. Eisenhower was promoted to 4-Star General following the success and appointed as the American Governor-General of the British Isles.

[DKrol]

Hokkaido Captured by Coalition Forces

Washington Post, Evening Edition - March 3, 1945
   
    Although it took longer than originally expected, the Japanese island of Hokkaido has been captured. A coalition of American-Free-French-British troops secured the regional capital of Sapporo this afternoon. Of the original 100,000 troops that landed in Hokkaido, roughly 65,000 troops remain. There is strong resistance from locals so it may take a few more weeks to gain complete control over the island. A report from the Navy Department tells us that Hokkaido will be used as the new base of coalition forces in the Pacific. President Wendell Willkie praised this as “a major success for democracy” and a sign the war is shifting in the right direction.

Willkie Announces New Domestic Agenda

New York Post, Evening Edition - May 21, 1945

    President Wendell Willkie, speaking to a group of New York industrialists with Secretary of Commerce John D. Rockefeller, Jr, announced “an end to the New Hope Agenda” and the beginning of “a new Age of prosperity”. Mr. Willkie laid out his plan for the New Age of Prosperity as a five point plan, over the next eight years. “First, we must increase production, both for our troops and our homes. Secondly,” said Mr. Willkie “a new tax will be levied on all exports, to spur growth of American markets.” The third point involves the privatization of numerous industries, especially the energy market with the sale of the Tennessee Valley Authority. The fourth and fifth points are government support for the arts and increased funding for public education, respectively. A poll from Harvard University found that 58% of those surveyed support the New Age of Prosperity Plan, while 35% don’t, and 7% are unsure.

Second Surge in France Begins

Washington Post, Special Edition - June 15, 1945

    A second force of troops has surged into France in an attempt to finally liberate the hexagon nation. With a boost in morale from the liberation of Britain, General Dwight D. Eisenhower led his coalition of troops into France in a cross-Channel move. Troops parachuted over the English Channel, over German lines, and landed in the city of Rennes. The troops took the Nazi front lines by surprise, opening up lanes from tanks, artillery, and further troops to come in through. The plan of attack, according to a spokesman from the War Department, appears to be to push straight to the outskirts of Paris, set up a strong base, and then strangle the city from Nazi hands. Most of the south of France is already under the control of the Free French Army, under General Charles De Gaulle.

[badgate]

I don't have a super clear remembrance of all of this in real life, so this is fascinating!

[DKrol]

I don't have a super clear remembrance of all of this in real life, so this is fascinating!

Very little of these are actual, RL events. Most are based on or inspired by RL events, but some are purely from my imagination.

[DKrol]

President Willkie Rushed to Hospital

Washington Post, Special Edition - August 31, 1945

    There is breaking news coming into our offices at this hour. President Wendell Willkie has been seen being rushed to the George Washington University Hospital by numerous sources. Minutes later Mrs. Willkie was spotted entering the hospital, as was Vice President Joseph W. Martin, Jr. We’ve reached out to the Secret Service and the White House Press Office for reasoning, but we haven’t received a reply at the time of print.

Willkie Suffering Heart Attack

Washington Post, Special Edition - September 1, 1945

    The reason for President Wendell Willkie’s emergency hospital trip has been released to the public. Mr. Willkie began complaining of chest pains and mild numbness when the Secret Service rushed him to George Washington University Hospital. Doctors determined that Mr. Willkie had suffered a mild heart attack, his third in the last 10 years. There has been no comment on Mr. Willkie’s current status and the press has been kept away from the hospital. Mrs. Willkie left the hospital, through a rear exit, and returned to the Executive Residence in the early hours of the morning. Vice President Joseph W. Martin, Jr. left the hospital and was driven to the White House by the Secret Service after spending an hour with Mr. Willkie.

Paris Captured by Allies

New York Times, Evening Edition - September 5, 1945

    Although questions linger over the health of President Wendell Willkie, there is great news to report from the European front of the War. Forces, under the command of General Dwight D. Eisenhower, have captured the city of Paris and effectively liberated France from the Nazi Germans after three months of renewed, forceful combat. American tanks broke the final German ramparts and rolled into the city early this afternoon, followed quickly by Coalition troops, Mr. Eisenhower, and General Charles De Gaulle. A White House Spokesman says that Mr. Willkie was informed of this victory and that he “applauded the brave soldiers who have repelled the Nazi menace”. Eastern portions of France remain under Nazi control, such as Alsace and Lorraine.

[H.E. VOLODYMYR ZELENKSYY]

Willkie's dead already IRL, no?

[Earthling]

Yes, Willkie died in 1944.

And Alsace and Lorriane are in the east of France, not the west.

[DKrol]

Yes, Willkie died in 1944.

And Alsace and Lorriane are in the east of France, not the west.

Thank you, got my geography a bit jumbled.

[Mister Mets]

Very interesting to see guesses at what a Wilkie presidency would be like, given how he never held elected office in real life.

[DKrol]

Willkie Released From Hospital

Washington Post, Special Edition - September 15, 1945

    After three weeks of hospitalization, President Wendell Willkie was released from the George Washington University Hospital. Doctors discharged Mr. Willkie shortly after noon and he arrived at the White House shortly after one in the afternoon. Mr. Willkie was seen using a cane to walk and his hat was pulled down to cover his face. Many medical experts expect that Mr. Willkie will not be able to walk, unaided, ever again. Politicians from across the country, members of all parties, have come out to wish Mr. Willkie the speediest of recoveries.

Pope Pius Arrested by Hitler

New York Times, Special Edition - October 25, 1945

    Horrible news is coming in from Vatican City. German SS officers, the paramilitary secret police of German Fuhrer Adolf Hitler, stormed the Apostolic Palace, killed several Swiss Guards (the Papal police force), and arrested Pope Pius XII, as well as numerous high-ranking Church Curia members. The Pontiff has been a quiet supporter of the rights of Jews and an opponent of both Communism, Socialism, and the Nazis and has long been at odds with Berlin. The fact that the Pontiff has been arrested by Nazis is an upfront to standing international law, that the Vatican and the Pope are neutral in all conflicts and maintains extraterritorial status during occupations of Italy. Pope Pius is still believed to be alive, although intelligence on the matter is weak. The Nazis have occupied Italy since the fall of the Mussolini government in May, 1944.

Willkie Addresses Nation Over Pontiff’s Arrest

Washington Post, Evening Edition - October 27, 1945

    President Wendell Willkie appeared before the public for the first time since his hospitalization this afternoon, in an address to a hastily assembled joint session of Congress. Mr. Willkie walked into the chamber with the aid of a cane, but set it aside once he reached the podium. Mr. Willkie spoke at length about the “immorality” and unscrupulousness of kidnapping Pope Pius XII, “an international figure of peace, love, and good will.” Mr. Willkie demanded that Fuhrer Adolf Hitler “immediately, and without reservation, release His Holiness” and hinted at a plan for American action if the Pontiff was not released “in a timely manner.”

[DKrol]

Coalition Marches Towards Germany

New York Times, Evening Edition - November 3, 1945

    Following President Wendell Willkie’s ultimatum regarding the release of Pope Pius XII, Coalition forces began what could be the final push to Germany. Alsace and Lorraine have been mostly liberated at this point, the West German forests are currently the major obstacle to the Coalition. The Soviet Red Army is also pressing in, towards Krakow, Poland, and forcing the Nazis to divide their army over two fronts. The Nazis have mostly given up trying to control North Africa, instead recalling most forces to Berlin in a last-ditch attempt to defend the Fatherland. Fuhrer Adolf Hitler has continued to rally his people and soldiers around his ideals. The Nazi Party announced that the Pope will have a public trial “for crimes against the Reich” at Nuremberg, Germany in three days.

Mass Death Camps Liberated in Poland

New York Times, Evening Edition - November 5, 1945

    The Soviet Red Army has released shocking details from their march towards Berlin. In the Polish countryside there are numerous mass death and labor camps for Nazi prisoners and Jews. The atrocities of these camps are too gruesome for this paper to print, but be assured that the images are too terrible for civilized man. It is believed that hundreds of thousands of prisoners have been executed since these camps were built. Those who survived the camps are being treated by Russian doctors, as well as being sent to the British Isles for more intense care. Many speculated that these camps existed but no one had any idea the death tolls were so high and the horrors so intense.

Pius XII Found Guilty at Sham Trial, Execution Set

New York Times, Special Edition - November 6, 1945

    At one of the largest rallies of the Nazi Party, a sham of a trial was held for the captured Pope Pius XII. Held at Nuremberg, the trial lasted a scant two hours and the Pontiff was not allowed to speak in his defense. Reports indicate that he appeared weak and frail, his face was thin and pale, and his hair was cloud-white. The Pontiff kept his head down for most of the trial and prayed, and he never looked his “judges” in the eyes. The three judges found the Pontiff guilty of 17 “serious crimes against the Reich” and a conspiracy against the Fuhrer. He was sentenced to execution by firing squad “at the earliest possible convenience.” Secretary of State Joseph C. Grew has flown to Portugal in an attempt to use back channels to evacuate the Pontiff.

[DKrol]

Coalition Forces Seize Nuremberg

New York Times, Evening Edition - December 1, 1945

    After a month of intense fighting and heavy losses on both sides, Coalition Forces have pushed into the city of Nuremberg. By a joint effort of the Red Army and the Coalition Armies the city was captured after 48 hours of fighting. The Nazi Army, being constricted, fell back towards Berlin to defend the capital. Some had hoped to find the deposed Pope Pius XII in a Nuremberg Prison, but those hopes were in vain. Many believe that he had been executed by his Nazi captors already, and his body burned with other Nazi prisoners. Another mass death camp was liberated outside Nuremberg.

Cardinal Dougherty: Pope Has Abdicated

The Philadelphia Inquirer, Evening Edition - December 5, 1945

    To the millions of Catholics across the United States the arrest and trial of Pope Pius XII has been a major issue, sparking protests and vigils across the nation. Cardinal Dennis Joseph Dougherty, Archbishop of Philadelphia, gave a lengthy interview with NBC Radio News regarding the Pontifical crisis. Cardinal Dougherty revealed that the Pontiff issued a directive to the College of Cardinals, decreeing that, should the Pontiff be captured or killed, it is to be considered that he resigned from the Holy See. The directive goes on to say that the Cardinals are to meet in Portugal and elected the 261st Pope. Cardinal Dougherty went on to say that the Cardinals have made plans to travel to Lisbon in the coming months, saying “We would meet sooner, but we are all praying that His Holiness [Pope Pius XII] is still alive.”

Assault on Honshu Begins

New York Times, Special Edition - December 10, 1945

    The Coalition Forces have launched their invasion of the main Japanese Island of Honshu. There is strong resistance on the Island, as the Japanese Armed Forces are centered on the island. Many military experts worry that the immense loyalty of the Japanese citizens will make it impossible to fully control the island. Already nearly 2,000 Coalition boys have been slaughtered on the Island by kamikaze, or suicide, soldiers. Many of these kamikazes pull the pin on grenades and then run towards Coalition troops, killing many in the process. Questions have already been raised as to how many civilians have been killed by Coalition troops, some estimates say 1 in 6 of the Japanese killed have been civilians.

[Sec. of State Superique]

You damn Nazis! Stop killing every Head of Government and Head of State that I like!

[DKrol]

Berlin Falls to Coalition, Hitler Killed in Crossfire

New York Times, Special Edition - December 16, 1945

    A two-pronged assault, done by the Coalition and the Russian Red Army, successfully brought Berlin to it’s knees. The Red Army attacked on the Eastern Front, while the Coalition forked around and hit both the Western Front and the Southern Front. The Soviets were the first into the city, capturing many top Nazi officials. As the push was made into the heart of Berlin the fighting became very intense and bloody. It was at this moment when Fuhrer Adolf Hitler, attempting to sneak out of Berlin in disguise, was gunned down by a Coalition machine gun nest. His body was found in the rubble hours after the fighting ended. The U.S. Army command has taken possession of Mr. Hitler’s body and is keeping it at a secure location. Karl Donit, Hitler’s hand-picked successor, immediately asked for a cease-fire and a meeting with General Dwight D. Eisenhower to work out a treaty of surrender. President Wendell Willkie has directed Secretary of State Joseph C. Grew to travel to Berlin and aid Mr. Eisenhower in the peace process. Mr. Willkie has announced a three-day, nationwide period of celebration in honor of this victory.

Peace Treaty Brokered, Germany Divided

New York Times, Evening Edition - December 25, 1945

    After four long years of battle, bloodshed, and tears the War in Europe has ended, a true Christmas miracle. General Dwight D. Eisenhower and German Admiral Karl Donit signed the Treaty of Rome this afternoon, officially ending any hostilities between the two nations. Per the Treaty, the German government and military are to be immediately disassembled, all Nazi officials are to turn themselves into Coalition Authorities, and the German nation is to be divided East and West. The Eastern portion of Germany will be governed by the Soviets, and the Western by the Coalition forces. The Treaty outlines the process of the division of Germany, which will last until 1985, with the option of an extension until 2000. Adolf Hitler’s body will be burned by the U.S. Army and the ashes are to be scattered in an undisclosed location to prevent grave robbing.

Pius’ Body Found in Nazi Bunker

Washington Post, Morning Edition - January 11, 1946

    The mystery of Pope Pius XII has been solved. While Coalition troops were searching a newly discovered Nazi bunker in Berlin, the body of a priest was found tucked away within the walls. Further examination found the body to be that of Pope Pius XII, who was capture by the Nazis in October, 1945. The body was flown to Rome, immediately, where it was further confirmed to be that of the Pontiff. The body received Catholic funeral rites and will lie in state for the next two weeks. Mourners from across the globe are expected to travel to the Vatican to pay their respects. President Wendell Willkie announced that he would lead the American delegation to the funeral.

[DKrol]

High Casualties in Japan

New York Times, Evening Edition - January 27, 1946

    Sad news came this afternoon, from the weekly press briefing from Secretary of War John J. Pershing. Mr. Pershing reported that the death toll from Operation Meiji, the codename for the invasion of Japan, was much higher than expected. During the initial stages of the invasion, of the 100,000 man strong landing force, only 35,000 soldiers were killed. As the invasion advanced to the main island of Japan, another wave of troops went in, roughly an extra 30,000 troops. According to Mr. Pershing, most of the secondary wave has been killed in combat. “These are brave men who served their country in the greatest way - with their lives”. Mr. Pershing also said that he has asked President Wendell Willkie to award most of the deceased with Medals of Honor. When asked why the invasion of Honshu is much more bloody than that of Hokkaido, Mr. Pershing said that there were a larger number of Japanese living on Honshu and “the Japanese are fiercely loyal bastards”.

Senators Question Invasion of Japan

Washington Post, Morning Edition - January 29, 1946

    Following the disclosure of the death toll, so far, of the invasion of Japan, leading Senators have raised questions over the invasion itself. Senator Tom Connally, Democrat of Texas and Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, spoke today about the invasion. “I support the war with my whole heart,” said Mr. Connally “But if so many of our sons, friends, and neighbors are dying in such a short time period, we must look into a different strategy”. Mr. Connally was joined by Senator David I. Walsh, Democrat of Massachusetts, who gave a lengthy interview with the Boston Globe yesterday. “We need to reassess our policy with regards to Japan, we can not continue to lose this many boys for one island”.

Papal Conclave Begins

The Telegraph, Evening Edition - February 11, 1946

    After four weeks (two weeks for lying in state and two weeks for mourning) the Papal Conclave, to elect the successor of the deceased Pope Pius XII, began today in the Vatican. This conclave holds a special meaning in that the new Pontiff will be faced with the task of leading the Church after six dark months. The Prefect of Pontifical Household, Cardinal Camillo Caccia Dominioni, officially began the conclave at roughly noon today when he expelled all reporters and non-cardinals, sealing the doors to the Sistine Chapel with the cry of “extra omnes”. Church observers have cited the following Cardinals as papabili, or likely candidates for Pope: Cardinal Pierre-Marie Gerlier, Archbishop of Lyon; Cardinal Maurilio, Archbishop of Turin; Cardinal Domenico Jorio, Prefect of the Congregation for the Discipline of Sacraments; and Cardinal Francesco Marmaggi, Prefect of the Congregation of the Council.

[DKrol]

Willkie Forms Committee on Japan

Washington Post, Evening Edition - February 13, 1946

    Following a slew of bad numbers from the War Department, President Wendell Willkie has taken steps towards reforming our war policy. A White House Spokesman announced that Mr. Willkie has formed a committee of Executive, Congressional, and Military officials to “investigate the current United States policy” in regards to the invasion of Japan and “submit a proposal to the President on the future” of the invasion. The committee will be chaired by Vice President Joseph W. Martin, Jr., and includes Secretary of State Joseph C. Grew, Secretary of War John J. Pershing, Secretary of the Navy Theodore Roosevelt, Jr., House Speaker Leslie C. Arends, Senator Tom Connally, and General Dwight D. Eisenhower, among others.

Cardinal Gerlier Elected Pope

The Telegraph, Special Edition - February 16, 1946

    Habemus Papem! White smoke billowed out of the Sistine Chapel chimney and the bells of St. Peter’s Basilica peeled out the election of the 261st Bishop of Rome after a 5 day Conclave. An hour after the smoke appeared, Cardinal Pierre-Marie Gerlier stepped out onto the balcony over St. Peter’s Square to greet his new flock. Gerlier, 66 years old, is the first non-Italian to be elected since 1522 (Pope Adrian VI). From the balcony, it was announced that Gerlier will take the name Benedict XVI. A Vatican Spokesman explained that the Pontiff took the name in honor of Pope Benedict XV, who was a key part in the peace brokering following the Great War. The Pontiff is the former Nuncio (Ambassador) to Poland and will surely play a strong role in the rebuilding of that nation following the end of the Nazi War.

General Eisenhower Resigns as Governor-General

The Telegraph, Evening Edition - May 23, 1946

    General Dwight D. Eisenhower’s face has become endearing to many Britons. Having led the liberation of the Isles, Mr. Eisenhower was appointed as the American Governor-General over the British Isles while the last vestiges of the Nazi Occupation were broken. Speaking to the nation this morning Mr. Eisenhower announced his resignation as Governor-General, citing a “deep desire to return the governing of the British Isles” to the British. He went on to say that he would be returning to the United States “for a command post” in a months’ time. King George VI has, reportedly, been in talks Mr. Eisenhower and Sir Anthony Eden, the British Governor-General,  to return to the Isles as full and proper King.

[DKrol]

Willkie Cabinet Shake-Up

Washington Post, Evening Edition - June 4, 1946

    A White House Spokesman announced today that the cabinet of President Wendell Willkie will be changing rather dramatically. Secretary of State Joseph C. Grew, serving since the Kennedy Administration, will step aside. Senator Tom Connally, Democrat of Texas, has been tapped to lead the State Department. Connally is the Chairman of the Senate Foreign Affairs Committee. Another Kennedy appointee, Secretary of War John J. Pershing, will be retiring after 6 years in the post. General Dwight D. Eisenhower, who recently resigned his post as Governor-General of the British Isles, has resigned his commission and has been selected to serve as the new Secretary of War. Secretary of the Navy Theodore Roosevelt, Jr. passed away last week, leaving Mr. Willkie to appoint Fleet Admiral Ernest J. King to the post. This shake-up will certainly lead to a new policy going forward in Japan.

Invasion of Japan Halted

Washington Post, Morning Edition - August 3, 1946

    The Committee formed by President Wendell Willkie to create a new policy on Japan has finished meeting and submitted their proposal. Mr. Willkie announced today, via radio address, that the invasion of Japan would be halted. Troops will fall back to the island of Hokkaido and fortify the island from the inside. This comes after the Willkie Cabinet Shuffle and the removal of several figures that spurred the original war movement. A spokesman, speaking after Mr. Willkie’s address, said that the U.S. was still “fully committed” to toppling Prime Minister Hideki Tojo and bring democracy to Japan.

Bruche Killed in Australia

New York Times, Special Edition - August 23, 1946

     Julius Bruche, military strongman of Australia, has fallen. Mr. Bruche was assassinated this morning by a pro-democracy activist as he rode through the city of Perth. Coalition troops, freed up from battle with the fall of Berlin, arrived in Canberra within hours of the news breaking and secured order. Some have suggested that the Coalition helped arrange the assassination attempt. American Fleet Admiral Chester w. Nimitz assumed command, under orders from Secretary of War Dwight D. Eisenhower, as the Governor-General of Australia. A statement from the War Department clarified that Mr. Nimitz is not there to “colonize” Australia, but rather to “maintain order until an Australian can be brought to power” through democratic means.