CABINET MEETING, FRIDAY, JULY 12, 1946
THE PRESIDENT
Asked the Secretary of War to discuss the proposal that August 14th be designated as a day of celebration marking the end of World War II.
SECRETARY OF WAR PATTERSON
Suggested that this event be handled on the basis of local celebration rather than as a national legal holiday.
SECRETARY OF LABOR SCHWELLENBACH
Stated that the matter must be handled very carefully. Believes that the sacrifices made by American soldiers as well as those on the home front should be called to the attention of the people. He said that it would be a solemn occasion and the people should be called upon to strive to develop additional unity in order to assure the victory in war.
UNDER SECRETARY OF NAVY SULLIVAN
Suggested that the President call upon the churches of America to offer spiritual thanks for the victory and the termination of hostilities.
SECRETARY OF WAR PATTERSON
Thinks that parades and solemn celebration in local communities would be helpful in attaining national unity and in bringing home to the people the fact that, while we have won the war, the peace has yet to be won.
THE PRESIDENT
Agreed that the matter should be handled on the basis of a proclamation to be issued by the President, along the lines suggested.
SECRETARY OF WAR PATTERSON
Submitted a memorandum to the President urging that Governor Szymczak of the Federal Reserve Board be assigned to the military government in Germany in order to establish a fiscal policy. Secretary stated that the idea was supported by the State Department. However, he felt that some opposition might be received from Chairman Eccles of the Federal Reserve Board who is most reluctant to allow Szymczak to leave his present duties.
SECRETARY OF THE INTERIOR KRUG
Suggested that employees be given time off in order to allow them to attend the review and parade of the Jap-American troops which is scheduled in honor of the troops on July 15th.
THE PRESIDENT
Agreed that this should be done and so ordered.
GENERAL FLEMING
The Highway Safety Conference called by the President has shown some tangible results. Figures reveal that there was an average of 600 lives saved during the month of May and that for the first time there has been a downward trend in highway accidents.