Newspapers were an important way for Americans to learn of the war’s progress, even before the United States officially entered the war in 1941. Journalists often joined the troops overseas to chronicle their experiences, even wearing uniforms. However, journalists were not allowed to carry government issued weapons. Many journalists died in combat, were wounded, or captured by the enemy.

Journalists wrote stories about the soldiers and the battles. Before their stories were published, a government employee read through the articles, censoring information that may help the enemy. This process delayed the printing of news.

In 1942, President Roosevelt created the Office of War Information to promote public support of the war at home. Journalists were encouraged to publish favorable stories to promote support from Americans.

The McFaddin family read the Beaumont Enterprise, a local newspaper that reported local, state, and national news. That newspaper was founded in 1880 and still serves the community today.

Ida is hosting other Red Cross volunteers for lunch and tea in her home's library. She excitedly reads the day's headlines to her friends.
"Ladies, ladies, the newspaper just came. 'Japan Bows to Allied Victors, Document Signed on USS Missouri Marks War’s End.' Isn’t that exciting?"