Post #65 appears to address your concerns regarding the intention (of both the USA and some Japanese) to shield civilians during the bombings.
Yes, indeed it does. Please see mine at #166 and #187.
You can do a user search on me if you want to see some of the questions I'm asking. I have no interest in either IvorySnow Pacifism or a leftist blame-America perspective. I'm asking questions here about the moral conduct of war. I'm looking for insight --- not trying to score points.
Anyhow, thanks for contributing to the discussion.