The attack on Pearl Harbor back on December 7, 1941 was commemorated on December 7, 2015 remembering the day 74 years ago leading the United States into World War II. There were several commemorative ceremonies that took place from parades to the laying of wreaths and in places from Washington, D.C. to the spot where the attacks took place in Hawaii.
Not only is the anniversary 74 years old, there were even veterans attending that were older than that. The oldest living United States veteran coming in at 110 years old was also taking part in the remembrance of those who lost their lives on that fateful day 74 years ago. The 110-year-old Lake Charles, La. Veteran was joined in Washington by other veterans and even two additional survivors of the Pearl Harbor attack in order to honor and remember those lost.
On December 7, 1941, the Imperial Japanese Navy conducted a surprise attack on the United States naval base located in Pearl Harbor. Hundreds of planes attacked shortly prior to 8:00 in the morning. December 7, 2015 commemorated that event.
The Sights and Sounds of Commemorations
Speeches – Throughout the United States, speeches were made honoring those who survived and remembering those who perished. USS Arizona surviving veterans rang a bell to honor their fellow sailors as taps played out in the background.
Parades -In Hawaii, parades that included the culture of Hawaii full with flame throwers and hula dancers marched along the streets as crowds cheered, honored and remembered those who were lost on December 7, 1941.
Live Dive – There was a live dive scheduled for December 8, 2015 at World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument. The Live Dive will showcase locations aboard the ship previously unseen. The hosts of the event will be available for discussion live at the theater. Imagine taking part in viewing a live dive as it happens on such a commemorative occasion.
Visitors can get a clearer picture of what it might have been like to be aboard the vessel and get an understanding of how much is involved in maintaining this sacred space.
Band Performances – Army, Air Force, and Marine Band performances performed for all to enjoy, and several commemorations also involved a moment of silence at 7:55 a.m., the moment the attack began.
National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day Commemoration via Live Stream – Three live events were showcased offering history and remembrance to those in attendance. The commemoration had a live broadcast of both the USS Oklahoma and USS Arizona memorial ceremonies.
National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day
The National Park Service together with the United States Navy together hosted the commemoration at Kilo Pier which was open to the public. And, for those who could not attend, a live stream was offered at the Pearl Harbor Visitors Center.
If you’ve never been to Hawaii and visited the site of the USS Arizona Memorial, it’s never too late to start planning as next year marks the 75th anniversary of this day that will forever remain in the hearts of Americans as the day the United States entered into World War II.
Of course, Hawaii is paradise, but there is also a piece of important history there as well. If you visit, you can get the chance to pay tribute, remember, and create a moment of silence in honor of those who perished.
