Pearl Harbor Day

Today, on the 71st anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor, we remember and honor the thousands of Americans who lost their lives and were wounded on that tragic day.

The attacks on Pearl Harbor were 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.

Our veterans are America’s greatest heroes. Their heroism inspires in us all the importance of personal sacrifice and the immeasurable value of freedom. In fighting for freedom and peace, our veterans secured America’s greatness, a greatness that prevails today because of all our veterans lived and died for.

Americans must never forget what happened on December 7th, 1941. We must never take our freedom as Americans 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.

Now, more than ever, 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 Americans.

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