Today marks the 70th anniversary of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. Bowing to the passage of time, the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association disbands at the end of this month. This ending was inevitable, but it is still sad.
A living connection to such a historic event makes it seem more real and vivid. As the last of the Pearl Harbor survivors pass on, we will be left with second hand recountings that can never fully capture the impact.
"Remember Pearl Harbor!" will soon become a whispered plea from the past rather than a battle cry for the present. To all who died that day, may you ever rest in peace. To the few loyal survivors who still honor the memories of their fallen fellow servicemen, thank you always.
Photo: Hugh Gentry, Reuters
Video: YouTube
