As veterans of foreign wars, we have seen firsthand the tremendous cost of freedom. For that reason, we pay tribute to those who have paid so dearly for our freedom. Seventy years ago Wednesday morning, the sky over Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, was filled with Japanese planes. When the last wave of attacking aircraft rejoined the Japanese fleet, 1,178 Americans lay wounded and 2,403 lay dead or dying. A great portion of the U.S. Pacific Fleet was in shambles.
Thus began Americas entry into World War II five years that changed the world. The United States returned from World War II as the worlds greatest military and economic power. America was the worlds peace keeper and a symbol of freedom and liberty for all. Tomorrow we pay homage to those who paid the ultimate price for Americas greatness.
That first morning at Pearl Harbor, military personnel were killed as they ran to man their battle stations. Families across our nation listened in horror as the radio announced the destruction and death. For the next 44 months, spouses and children watched their fathers and mothers answer the call to arms. Nearly 300,000 of those men and women never saw their families again. Beginning at Pearl Harbor and throughout World War II, American soldiers, sailors, Marines and airmen suffered injuries, many of which they carry to this day.
So, as we remember those lost on this anniversary of Pearl Harbor, it is time to say thank you. Thank you to the 2,403 for whom the beginning was also the end. We also say thank you to every man, woman and child who paid a price so that we might stand strong today.
As living veterans of foreign wars, we all have paid a price to enjoy the freedoms of today. We ask you to join us in our grief over friends lost and in our sympathy for the servicemen and their families who have suffered. Join us in recalling their sacrifices, their bravery and their commitment. But also join us in our joy for having served the greatest nation on the face of the earth. For all who have served, for all who have suffered and all who have died, join us as we say, May God bless them ... and may God bless America.
