It was a day unlike no other. In a region that I joke is perpetually stuck in summer, where everyday is just like the other and the only way you know you are on a different day is because Mr. Weatherman is wearing a different Aloha shirt, yesterday, was a day that was not like any other that we've experienced since arriving on island.
It was a day to pay tribute to those men who tragically lost their lives in the attack on Pearl Harbor, a day that does remain in infamy. It was a day to take a moment out of the chaotic lifestyles that many of us lead. It was a day that made you proud to honor those men who had been laid to rest unexpectedly in their ships 67 years ago.
Yesterday, a Naval vessel cruised around Pearl Harbor, decks deck railed with white uniforms of individuals proudly serving in the armed forces, rendering honor to those who were on the USS Utah, USS Arizona, and USS Nevada during the time of the attack 67 years ago. A fly-by by Air Force F-15's preforming the missing man formation over the USS Arizona at the moment that the USS Arizona was sunk, brought tears to my eyes, a tender hand of a six year into mine, and a hug from a man who I'm proud to say wears the uniform for his country everyday.
It was also a day to think of the courage it takes to be a person in uniform. Not only for those who serve now in unstable regions and work more hours in a week then most Americans work in two, but to think of the courage it took for those individuals here on Oahu 67 years ago, to look up into the darkening sky and view a harbor full of screams, explosions, and rumbling enemy aircraft, and know that they were now fully thrust into helping and rendering up the flag and defending America for all that she stands for on U.S. soil.
Finally, it was a day to ponder the commitment that we all have in making sure that these days of war are not forgotten in our youth. They are not pleasant ones to discuss, but even for the young, they must know what has been done before them in order to know how vital it is to protect, serve, and defend America. We truly live in a wonderful country. We are blessed to have the freedoms we enjoy everyday. It is because of those who made a promise and raised their hand and swore to defend them that you enjoy them.
Honor those who have served. Pray for those who have the courage to wear their military uniform now as they all face unexpected twists and turns, all the while thinking of your safety. Make a commitment to set aside some time to pass down the stories of old to the youth of tomorrow so that we never forget those who have taken up our beautiful flag and run with it...
If you want to see more about the events of yesterday's Pearl Harbor rememberance, visit the following websites for further insight.
http://www.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/20081208/NEWS08/812080316/-1/RSS02?source=rss_localnews
http://www.nps.gov/pwr/customcf/apps/eventcalendar/events/usarevent16733691.html
1 comment:
Dear One,
I cried when I first saw the Arizona Memorial and will probable do so again.
As the very proud member of a family which treasures and continues a tradition of military service, frequently with sacrifice of self, I honor all men and women who are like-minded. Without them, our country would not be blessed as it is. Let us not, in addition, forget the families who serve as much or more than those who wear the uniform.
May God continue to send those who serve, willing to die for people they do not know, for something greater than all of us... freedom and prosperity for all.
Love,
Mom
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