Remembering Pearl Harbor
Hawaii is a beautiful place to visit. It has spectacular beaches, awesome vistas found nowhere else in the world and, of course, some of planet Earth’s most perfect weather. While you’re there, you might choose to stay on the island of Oahu, home to the capital city of Honolulu. A little way west you’ll find the Pearl Harbor National Monument. It’s a serene place these days. You can tour the wreckage of the U.S.S. Arizona or quietly stroll through the grounds. Looking up at the peaceful blue sky and the palm trees gently swaying in the tropical breeze, it’s hard to image this place was once a scene of fiery destruction and death.
The morning of December 7th, 1941, was a quiet one at the Pearl Harbor Naval Base. That was soon to change. At 7:48 am local time, 353 Japanese aircraft descended, laying waste to everything below them. Four of the Pacific fleet’s eight battleships were sunk, along with 3 cruisers, 3 destroyers and numerous smaller craft. Nearly 2,500 Americans were killed and over a thousand others wounded. With one bold stroke, the Empire of Japan had dealt a decisive blow to the U.S. Pacific Fleet. December 7th would become “a date that will live in infamy” and lead directly to American involvement in World War II.
The attack on Pearl Harbor may seem like ancient history best relegated to late night viewing on the History Channel, but it carries some important reminders:
It reminds us that we need to be vigilant. On December 6th of 1941, America wasn’t at war. Just 24 hours later, it was. Within a few short months, the country had begun the largest civilian war effort in history. Pearl Harbor reminds us things can and do change quickly. We need to be prepared to reevaluate what we think we know at a moment’s notice.
It reminds us that we need to study history. Those who don’t study history are doomed to repeat it, so the saying goes, but just because it’s become cliché doesn’t make it any less true. Studying history gives perspective and context to look forward to the future while remembering the lessons of the past.
It reminds us of the valor our servicemen and women display every day. Thanks to the countless sacrifices of America’s military heroes, the U.S. Pacific Fleet quickly regrouped and in just six short months won a critical victory in the Battle of Midway, turning the tide of the war. That same dedication and valor is echoed today by our military personnel. If you want to remember Pearl Harbor, thank a military service member.
With the approach of the 76th year anniversary of the attack, and fewer and fewer WWII veterans remaining each year, events like Pearl Harbor remain important— not so we can continue to hold grudges or to relive old prejudices, but because it’s a poignant reminder that we can overcome any challenge no matter the odds.