Pearl: Japanese attack was a turning point in history

Seventy-five years ago today, America found itself thrust into a world war. The surprise Japanese attack at Pearl Harbor ushered in a new age, one that ultimately made the United States the leader of the free world and the chief guardian of freedom everywhere.

Not until the events of Sept. 11, 2001, would America again find itself attacked in the same way. Many of us remember well that day in September, but there are only a handful still alive who can recall Pearl Harbor and its lasting effect on our nation.

The attack was the defining moment of the 20th century, one that would lead to the atomic age and the changing of everything we know. It is important therefore that we never forget the attack on Dec. 7, 1941, the day that would "live in infamy" as President Franklin Roosevelt called it, for it was the day that America matured, the day that our nation realized that we are forever part of the world at large.

Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day is set aside for that reason, so that we never forget that it can happen again and that we must be ever vigilant. There are still forces in the world that would take away our freedom if we were to let them. We must never forget Pearl Harbor. It was the day America grew up.

Published in Editorials on December 7, 2016 8:47 AM