Remembrance

Someone sent me an e-mail this morning lamenting the fact that there doesn't seem to be anyone who cares that today is December 7 - National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day.  I agreed with him, and then I saw that our flag out in front of the hospital was flying at half-mast.  I e-mailed him back and let him know that at least someone still remembered. 


Exactly 76 years ago, on that "day that will live in infamy" the United States was attacked by Japan.  We entered World War II shortly thereafter.  Today, we honor and cherish those who gave their lives in the service of their country.  But we also remember, today of all days, an entire generation who likely saved our world from ultimate destruction.  We too remember their sacrifice.


President George H.W. Bush gave a speech at the USS Arizona Memorial on the fiftieth anniversary of Pearl Harbor on this day in 1991.  I encourage all of you to watch it - it is very moving.  He ended his remarks by looking out over the water, his voice cracking as he fought back his emotions:


Look at the water here, clear and quiet, bidding us to sum up and remember. One day, in what now seems another lifetime, it wrapped its arms around the finest sons any nation could ever have, and it carried them to a better world.
May God bless them. And may God bless America, the most wondrous land on Earth.


Today, of all days, let us remember.