(Editor's Note: As a representative spokesman for Santa Cruz' Japanese population, Frank Masamori was asked to write the following article, outlining local Japanese impressions of the new war.)

The Japanese-Americans of Santa Cruz were as shocked and chagrined at the unwarranted attack on Honolulu as were the rest of the United States. Have no ties with the "old country", except by nationality, our young men are solidly behind whatever measures this country takes in the war to come.

Our parents, of course, are harder hit by the situation. They do have strong affections across the Pacific, but they too can be depended upon to support the country which has provided them with liberty, freedom, and a chance to prosper.

Twenty young Santa Cruz Japanese-Americans are subject to the selective service act, in fact six are already serving in the American armed forces.

'REAL CITIZENS'

It is our sincere hope to conduct ourselves in this emergency as real citizens. We want the people of this area to know they can depend upon us to do the right thing at the right time.

My father, now 60 years of age, is a good example of how the older generation feels. He has no desire to ever return to the homeland as he feels he owes this country a great deal for what it has done for him.

Our Association, which functions primarily as a social unit, promotes athletic contests and social gatherings. It has no religious significance.

The largest local colony of my people is in and around Watsonville. I am sure the same sentiment exists there as in Santa Cruz.

It is my personal belief the common citizens of the Island Empire are not in favor of this wanton effort to wipe out U.S. island possessions. They, unfortunately, are led by a militaristic group, bent on sticking close to the the Axis.