[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 183 (Monday, December 8, 2008)]
[Senate]
[Page S10801]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    67TH ANNIVERSARY OF PEARL HARBOR

  Mr. AKAKA. Mr. President, yesterday, December 7, 2008, was the 67th 
anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor in which more than 2,400 
courageous sailors, soldiers, and marines died. To those in Hawaii who, 
like me, witnessed the attack, the events of 67 years ago have a deep 
personal significance. I will never forget the courage and commitment 
of the soldiers, sailors, and ordinary men and women who did not 
hesitate to defend our Nation despite the enormous personal risk. For 
all Americans, young and old, it is important to remember that out of 
this dark hour arose the courage and strength of a unified Nation. I 
honor the memories of all the survivors of the attack as well as the 
fallen heroes who fought to defend our Nation's principles of democracy 
and freedom that day.
  This year, with so many of our troops serving overseas, I would also 
like recognize our armed services families by honoring the sacrifices 
of those who lost loved ones during the attack on Pearl Harbor. Our 
Nation owes these family members a debt of gratitude for their strength 
and perseverance during such a grievous time. I want to thank all the 
members of our armed forces--those that served in World War II, all 
those that have served since, and those who still serve today. Your 
daily sacrifices protect and strengthen our country and allow us to 
enjoy the freedoms symbolic of the United States. Your courageous and 
dedicated efforts humble me, and may God bless you and your families as 
together we remember Pearl Harbor.

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