January 17, 1991 USA Today: "U.S. BOMBS BAGHDAD - Iraqi air force 'decimated'"

USA Today's signature colorful format captures the start of Operation Desert Storm! The massive headline announces the bombing of Baghdad with devastating results. Features USA Today's innovative graphics and layout: a prominent poll box asking "Do you support Bush's decision to attack?" shows overwhelming American support - 75% Support, 18% Oppose, 7% Don't know. Small graphic noting "Fear of terrorism high, 9A USA TODAY poll." The paper includes key quotes from President Bush in highlighted boxes: "Tonight the battle has been joined" and "When the troops we've sent in finish their work, I'm determined to bring them home as soon as possible." A "Targets: Iraq/Kuwait" box with map notes: "At least half of Saddam's air force at 24 bases has been destroyed. The Iraqi air force had 750 planes." Features photo of Saddam Hussein identified as "SADDAM: Said to in-sist he prevails." The comprehensive "NEWSLINE - THE GULF WAR AT A GLANCE" sidebar covers multiple aspects: "THE ATTACK: With a historic, lethal air strike, troops of Operation Desert Storm rain bombs on Iraq. 3A. President Bush: 'Just the way it was scheduled.' 4A." "MARKETS REACT: Japan's Nikkei shoots up 1004.11 points to close at 23,448.81. 'What happens in Tokyo follows in London and then the U.S.' 1B." "PAYING THE PRICE: U.S. officials deny it, but Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein, left, calls Marlin Fitzwater 'a liar.' 2A. Connoisseur of violence: 8A." "NO RESISTANCE: U.S. and allied forces met 'no air resistance whatsoever' from Iraq. USA says: 4A." "EARLY TARGETS: Iraq's air force and chemical, nuclear plants took a pounding. 3A." "UNITY URGED: Democratic leaders of Congress who voted against war urge support from all in United States. 4A." "MEDICAL AID: No clear view exists on number of military casualties. 8A. Injured prepared." Also covers "THE DISPUTE," "DESERT FIGHTERS," "THE WEAPONS," and "PEOPLE IN CHARGE." USA Today's accessible format made the war understandable to everyday Americans. Essential for Gulf War collections showing how the nation's newspaper covered the conflict.