Remembering Pearl Harbor

Today, on the seventy-second anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor, we
remember and honor the thousands of Americans who lost their lives or were
wounded on that tragic day.

The attack on Pearl Harbor was an assault upon our entire Nation and upon
the sense of freedom, peace and safety we enjoy as American citizens.

In the wake of the attacks, America entered World War II and displayed our
strength to the entire globe through the bravery of the members of our
military who successfully defended our freedom and our Nation.

Our veterans have made countless sacrifices in protecting our freedom,
preserving our democracy, and defending our Nation. As the State Senator
representing Waterloo, the birthplace of Memorial Day, I firmly believe we
have no greater obligation than to make sure these sacrifices are never
forgotten.

Americans must never forget what happened on December 7th, 1941.  We must
never take our freedom for granted.  In this post 9/11 world, we continue
to be reminded of the importance of defending our homeland and ensuring
that future generations are able to grow up in a land of peace, freedom and
opportunity.

On this day of remembrance, we recognize that the freedom we enjoy as
Americans is not free, but paid for with the courage, valor and sadly, the
lives of thousands of our fellow citizens.

We must never forget how great our Nation is, how precious our freedoms
are, and how blessed we are to be Americans.