Pearl Harbor Brought
About Unbreakable Unity
MADISON, WI (Dec. 3, 2004) This month, Wisconsinites are observing the 63rd anniversary of what then-President Franklin Roosevelt called “a date that will live in infamy.” On Dec. 7, 1941, the Japanese launched a surprise — and devastating — attack on the military base at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii, spurring the United States' entry into World War II.
Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary John A. Scocos wrote about his views about that day so long ago which changed history and the lives of men and women and families throughout the United States. Here are his comments:
"The men and women who fought at Pearl Harbor, and who went on to serve in World War II epitomize the characteristics we all hold in such high esteem. This “greatest generation” of soldiers did not think they were committing acts of heroism; they only believed they were doing what was right by serving our nation."
"When Japanese warplanes shattered the quiet waters of the Pacific with their bombs, sailors found themselves fighting for their lives amid blazing oil slicks. Despite the scenes of devastation that confronted them, brave men manned their battle stations and began to fight back. Many would never survive to see the next day."
"In all, more than 2,400 Americans died that day, and close to another 1,200 were wounded."
"No one knew it at the time, but this surprise attack was the turning point for America and for a world at war. The slogan, “Remember Pearl Harbor!” mobilized a country and brought an immediate reaction of unprecedented unity from the American people."
"Young Americans, from all walks of life, were thrust together in the flashpoint that was Pearl Harbor. No one in the United States was untouched by the efforts to bring all of the resources of this great nation to bear upon the war effort."
"That unbreakable unity became our most effective weapon."
"On the waters of the Pacific, in the air, under the sea, on untold islands, and, eventually, across Europe and Africa, a generation of new soldiers signed up and moved out, surrendering their normal lives and committing their futures to a cause greater than any individual."
"As my mother used to tell me, you rarely saw a man on the street between the age of 18 to 40 who wasn’t in uniform, or a woman who wasn’t contributing in some fashion. The result was astounding, and for more than 60 years America has been strong, peaceful and prosperous because of the sacrifice of a generation willing to fight – and die – for their country."
"In today’s world, where the very dignity of humankind is challenged at every turn, it is our responsibility to uphold the principles on which America was founded, and on which America won World War II."
"We can do our part by supporting those who are being called on to defend these principles in Iraq, Afghanistan and other key locations throughout the world. As Americans, we must never forget that we are able to choose freedom today because of the bravery of those whose fate had been chosen for them many years ago."
"In memory and respect for every soldier who served in World War II, the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs this month unveiled a plaque that is intended to hang in the state Capitol. The plaque was made possible through the generous contributions of veterans organizations across Wisconsin."
"Our hope is that this fitting memorial will help future generations pay their respects, understand the sacrifices that so many made in the name of freedom, and recognize that the soldiers who perished at Pearl Harbor and in World War II did not die in vain."
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