Eighty-two years ago Thursday, the Empire of Japan attacked the U.S. Naval base at Pearl Harbor in Honolulu, Hawaii.
At noon Thursday, American Legion Post 49 in Warsaw held a brief ceremony at noon to recall the attack that plunged the United States into World War II and to honor those who gave their life on that day.
The ceremony, held outside of the Post, began with Post member Larry Burkhart reading various passages.
From President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s speech, he said, “On this date, Dec. 7, 1941 - a date which will live in infamy - the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of Japan.”
From “Attack at Pearl Harbor - The Japanese View,” he said the Japanese attack fleet left its home waters on Nov. 26, 1941, steaming a route towards Pearl Harbor. Fleet commander received his final orders on Dec. 1, 1941. On that morning of Dec. 7, 1941, the battle group was in position 275 miles north of Hawaii. At 6 a.m., the battle group consisted of fighter jets, torpedo bombers, high-level bombers and dive bombers.
“One hour and 40 minutes after leaving the carriers, they knew they were nearing their goal. The sky over Pearl Harbor was clear. It was 7:49 a.m. when the fleet commander ordered the radioman to send out the command, ‘Attack!’ The first bomb fellow on Wheeler Field, then Hickam Field and the bases at Ford Island.
“‘Surprise Attack Successful!’ was sent out at 7:53 a.m.”
Before offering a prayer, Burkhart read the following: “The Arizona was mortally wounded by armor-piercing bombs, which ignited the ship’s forward ammunition magazine. The resulting explosion and fire killed 1,177 crewmen, the greatest loss of life on any ship that day and about half the total of Americans killed. Number of American deaths totaled 2,403. That figure included 54 civilians, most of whom were killed by improperly fused anti-aircraft shells landing on the island. There were 1,178 military and civilians wounded.”
In the prayer, Burkhart said, “Lord God, Almighty Father, creator of mankind and author of peace, as we are ever mindful of the cost paid for the liberty we possess, we ask you to bless the members of our Armed Forces. Give them courage, hope and strength. May they ever experience your firm support, gentle love and compassionate healing. Be their power and protector, leading them from darkness to light. To you be all glory, honor and praise, now and forever. Amen.”
The Honor Guard then fired a three-round volley, followed by the playing of Taps by a bugler.