Reply #169: The use of atomic bombs was not necessary

[AnOhioan]

A blockade, not invasion, of the Japan, would have brought the war to an end within months. The bombs were used to serve notice to the Soviets. Nothing more, nothing less.

Two cities completely destroyed, thousands killed.

Yes, it does rank as a crime, a crime for which the guilty are already beyond reach.

I consider the firebombing of Tokyo, Dresden and other cities to be equally abhorrent.

Was defeating Germany and Japan a necessity? Yes.

Was destroying cities solely to damage the morale of our enemies or give notice to future adversaries a necessity? No.

I wish the bombs had never been used. But they were, and their use has haunted the world ever since.

It is my fervent prayer that the use of nuclear weapons will never again occur. It is also my hope that the images in this thread serve as a reminder to us all that no country, the US included, has a history that is unblemished.