20 May 1940
Page 1
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Newspaper
Kingsport Times
Location
Kingsport, Tennessee, United States of America
Date
May 20, 1940
Page
1
Mixed war and political briefs from May reports note air raids on targets abroad, neutral reactions to troop movements, and legislative actions. Coverage mentions American sentiment for aid to allies, a family announcement, German advances near Paris, Sweden barring Nazi troop transit, and a Supreme Court ruling on price controls. The items include multiple cities and agencies, reflecting ongoing global tension and domestic policy debates.
A second child is injured when a passing car strikes a child on Highway 11 W near Chestnut Ridge. Deputies seek driver identity as witnesses report a vehicle and license plate unavailable. The accident occurred late yesterday afternoon. the child was with his mother when struck. Police continue investigation.
Washington May 20 The Democratic and Republican conventions move toward final stages as war news and defense issues shape choices. Roosevelt may clinch a majority of Democratic delegates while Republicans delay a full nomination fight amid uncertain sentiment. Philadelphia newsroom note signals political fever and shifting support.
Residents report confusion as city census enforcers seek information from those not yet enumerated. Announcers list local contact persons including Honey Watkins and Mrs J Pox to assist in contacting residents and completing the census.
Signed plea agreement details a SEPP SUE peer role with Addrena Bireel listed among involved parties. The document outlines terms, obligations, and expected actions under the court order.
A Senate Appropriations Committee approved a $1.821 billion defense bill, enabling immediate expenditure upon Roosevelt signature. The measure funds a rapid 50,000 aircraft buildup, cuts land acquisition items, and preserves substantial discretionary sums for the President while outlining an aviation industry conference with leaders.
Chattanooga sets a state record for deathless days in 1940 with 116 days free of fatalities. Knoxville nears the mark, Nashville records 94 days, and Lookout Mountain area shows improvement as Tennessee counties report ongoing safety progress amid a year with several fatal incidents and public health attention.
The Supreme Court ruled that Congress may stabilize an interstate industry by price fixing. Justice Douglas said the “commerce clause” allows price control to protect public interests, but the Sherman Act forbids industry self regulation. The decision also reversed a lower court ruling on import duties and tariffs, with Justice McReynolds dissenting.
British Expeditionary Forces in France continue withdrawals amid German advance and uncertain front lines. London reports a grim situation with St Quentin in German hands and fighting near Cambrai while Belgian and French positions hold. air and naval actions persist against German forces as the empire faces its gravest peril.
Alexander P. De Seversky, former Russian naval aviation commander, warned that France and Britain face a tough fight with Germany due to a pilot shortage shared by the United States. He urged government incentives to attract youths to flying, noting proposed goals to train 7,000 air corps pilots yearly versus under 2,000 now. The military aviation advocate called for a “machina” approach to recruiting American pilots.
Rome May 20 Count Galeazzo Ciano plans to visit Albania to inspect public works Italy promoted on April 7 1939. Italians urged to be ready for a possible call from Premier Mussolini amid Italy's Balkan foothold. Ciano’s Milan speech viewed as reaffirming Italy Germany alliance and resolve to keep faith in engagements with Germany.
Louis P. Lockner reports from the European front on May 20 about Germany's air force under Hitler. The piece describes a planned offensive through Halland and Relat, German dive bombers and heavy bombers, and the impact on towns rail lines and factories as the Wehrmacht advances. It notes observations from a Berlin bureau chief and details of German air strategy and equipment as the war progresses.
Allied reports show German mechanized divisions advancing up to 60,000 men toward Paris while Britain and France prepare counter moves. German aim to isolate Channel ports like Calais risks trapping 400,000 Allied troops. Paris remains threatened as Franco-British forces regroup and contest gains along the Somme, Meuse, and St. Quentin sectors.
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