This National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, the VFW reflects
on the event that changed the course of history and altered America’s destiny.
The attack on Pearl Harbor 74 years ago left more than
3,500 men and women dead or wounded and tested America’s resolve like never
before. But when the dust settled on one of America’s darkest days, a
reinvigorated and tenacious nation awoke determined to defend our freedom and
way of life no matter the cost.
President Franklin D. Roosevelt spoke with prophetic
words when he later remarked, “No matter how long it may take us to overcome …
the American people, in their righteous might, will win through to absolute
victory.”
The incredible odds we faced in the aftermath of Pearl
Harbor served to bolster the indomitable spirit of our nation – carrying us
through to the ultimate victory against the Axis powers, just as President
Roosevelt had predicted.
The attack on December 7, 1941, taught future
generations that our nation may be attacked and our buildings ruined, but our
enemies will never be successful in defeating our democracy or the American way
of life.
As the years pass and many Pearl Harbor survivors succumb
to the passage of time, we remain inspired by their diligence, strength and
perseverance. And as we pause to remember their contributions and sacrifice,
let us be equally resolved in our determination to serve our nation as
selflessly as they did.