Jerry Summers
The problems in the Middle East and American universities etc. produced a copy in the mail from an unidentified source of the above document used during World War II (1941-1945) that the older generation would like to forget.
Many modern day Americans may not have heard of the austerity plans of that conflict and may not believe it will be necessary that a similar rationing plan of food would take place in the future:
“During WWII Americans had to ration food, clothing, gasoline, and everything they needed to win the war.
Families were given ration booklets to make sure people didn’t purchase more than they needed. Every American sacrificed during the war so that you could live in a free world today.”
Each book contained 100 stamps that could be used according to the following:
1. This book is valuable. Do not lose it.
2. Each stamp authorizes you to purchase rationed goods in the quantities and at the times designated by the Office of Price Administration. Without the stamps you will be unable to purchase those goods.
3. Detailed instructions concerning the use of the book and the stamps will be issued. Watch for those instructions so that you will know how to use your book and stamps. Your Local War Price and Rationing Board can give you full information.
4. Do not throw this book away when all of the stamps have been used, or when the time for their use has expired. You may be required to present this book when you apply for subsequent books.
Rationing is a vital part of your country's war effort. Any attempt to violate the rule is an effort to deny someone his share and will create hardship and help the enemy.
This book is your Government's assurance of your right to buy your fair share of certain goods made scarce by war. Price ceilings have also been established for your protection. Dealers must post these prices conspicuously. Don't pay more.
Give your whole support to rationing and thereby conserve our vital goods. Be guided by the rule:
"If you don't need it, "DON'T BUY IT.”
The pamphlet prepared by the Office of Price Administration also foretold of the potential consequence of a violation of the procedure where the price of individual items would be listed in the necessary number of stamps rather than dollars or cents:
WARNING
1. “Punishments ranging as high as Ten Years' Imprisonment or $10,000 Fine, or Both, may be imposed under United States Statutes for violations thereof arising out of infractions of Rationing Orders and Regulations.
2. This book must not be transferred. It must be held and used only by or on behalf of the person to whom it has been issued, and anyone presenting it thereby represents to the Office of Price Administration, an agency of the United States Government, that it is being so held and so used. For any misuse of this book it may be taken from the holder by the Office of Price Administration.
3. In the event either of the departure from the United States of the person to whom this book is issued, or his or her death, the book must be surrendered in accordance with the Regulations.
4. Any person finding a lost book must deliver it promptly to the nearest Ration Board.”
Of course there was an underground black market, counterfeiting of stamps, political preference and other violations during the War.
(Whether a $7 latte drink would be featured in any modern day Ration Book in 2024 would be subjective thinking?)
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Jerry Summers
(If you have additional information about one of Mr. Summers' articles or have suggestions or ideas about a future Chattanooga area historical piece, please contact Mr. Summers at
jsummers@summersfirm.com)