Seventy years ago today, Japan attacked the United States, sending hundreds of planes to bomb the naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. The early morning attack took the lives of over 2000 Americans while another 1000 were wounded. Eight battleships, 12 additional naval vessels, and between 200 and 300 planes were destroyed. The next day, the US Congress voted to declare war on Japan. Within days, Germany and Italy, who were Japan’s allies, would join Japan in its war on the United States, and in turn, the US would declare war on Germany and Italy. The world was at war, and many on all sides would fight and die. Courage would be tested, and the men and women who fought in World War II would literally save the world from tyranny.
Rememering the attack on Pearl Harbor is still fresh for many, almost as if it happened yesterday. For others, it is a day that is discussed by parents and grandparents, with memories of where they were and what happened in the days to follow. Those born more recently cannot image a day as horrific as September 11, 2001, yet Pearl Harbor was as big a tragedy for that day as the 9/11 attacks are for the recent generation. The Pearl Harbor attack propelled the United States into war, and the entire country stood together, sacrificing for those who fought.
We are proud of those who saved the world, for their sacrifice and bravery, and yet we are also proud of the way they have put the war behind them and are willing to walk toward a brighter future with those who were once enemies. At the Battleship Arizona Memorial (pictured above), it is not uncommon to see former enemies embrace. During the 50th anniversary of VJ Day, three exchange students were living with me, one from Germany, one from Italy, and one from Japan. They were welcomed everywhere and given the utmost respect, especially by WWII veterans. Perhaps this will also be the case with those involved in the more recent terrorist attacks on the United States. We can only hope the example set by “The Greatest Generation” will be followed.
