One of the big questions of the day was President Roosevelt running for yet another term.
He had already passed what had been the understood as the traditional two-term limit. Now he was “debating” whether to run for a fourth term. Republicans who had been wandering in a political wilderness since 1932 were already protesting such a radical move.
Meanwhile, elsewhere, Americans read more hopeful news from the war front. With gas rationing, much travel beyond the Four Corners had become extremely rare, hometown activities became much more popular. Fort Lewis had both college and high school classes, and travel to other distant colleges was nearly impossible.
Demons Topped Aggies 37-23
At the Smiley Gym last night the sizzling Demons made it too hot for the cagers from Fort Lewis College, defeating them before a large crowd to the tune of 37 to 23.
FDR Orders War Plants Improved for Women (headline)
Roosevelt ordered improved facilities in war plants for women workers in particular to reduce absenteeism.
Colorado has had one of the greatest wheat production years in history.
Reports Say Nazis Will Unleash Secret Rockets
The secret weapon is reported in technical installation, but it will take four months of work to prepare to fire.
Durango had its own “secret weapon.” What was going on across the Animas River where the smelter had long been? Government and military officials and officers had been seen in Durango but why remained unknown. Rumors swirled around the community.
While it might not give quite the right connotation, Americans were settling into the war conditions by 1944. Particularly was this true because slowly but steadily now Germany and Japan were being beaten. On the home front life with food stamps, air raid drills, victory gardens and war news had become the norm. Most people even accepted year-round daylight savings time.
Ration Coupon Information
Food stamps meats, fats, cheese and canned milk
Book No. 3 brown coupons
Series V stamps are valid beginning Jan. 23
Gasoline Stamps book March 23 book A Coupon 10 3 gallons
“H” ration holders must complete tire inspection by Feb. 23
Shoe stamps book No. 1 coupon no. 18 1 pair shoes, good indefinitely
La Plata County ups bond purchases to 60 percent of quota. Come on, Gang, let’s go over the top
Accidents costly to country: 94,000 killed last year.
The home front sounds like a battlefield when the Nation Safety Council makes a report.
Article on Post War Vacations.
Two Week Vacations Coming. Palestine or Egypt?
Local Red Cross Chapter appeals for Nurse’s Aides.
The shortage is created by nurses being in military hospitals.
Duane Smith is a retired Fort Lewis College history professor. Reach him at 247-2589.
