“Yesterday, December 7, 1941, a date which will live in infamy in the United States of America.” – Franklin Delano Roosevelt
Delano Roosevelt. These words ring across time, even today, and animated the unparalleled public response to the American war effort.
In 1941, Pearl Harbor represented the largest attack on American soil – an unprovoked and cowardly act. As military personnel awoke early on Sunday morning, they were assailed by foreign attackers hoping to defeat the United States before its entry into the war.
However, this attack and subsequent attacks on American resolve have been unsuccessful. The same American spirit which motivated the Greatest Generation has not vanished from the hearts of Americans. And though it is often speculated that the flame of the American spirit is dwindling, and perhaps it has in some segments of the country, a flame remains.
Now, well into the 21st Century, the generation that fought in World War 2 is quieting. It is no coincidence that as we lose this generation to time, we see renewed military engagements in Europe and a decline in our political decorum. It is also no coincidence that the number of events commemorating National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day is fewer.
We would be wise to reflect on the past and to reflect on the trials and tribulations of predecessors, lest we wish to repeat their injuries and forget their triumphs.
Those who fought in World War II against the scourge of fascism represent the finest this nation had to offer.
May their sacrifice always be honored.
