Pearl Harbor is a naval base in Hawaii that houses many battleships and aircraft carriers. On December 7th, 1941, just before 8 am, the base was attacked by 353 Imperial Japanese aircraft (fighters, level and dive bombers, and torpedo bombers), in two waves, launched from six aircraft carriers. The attack lasted for one hour and fifteen minutes only, but was very dreadful. Of the 19 U.S. Navy ships present, all were damaged or destroyed and more than 300 aircraft were obliterated.
Among the eight battleships at the base, four were sunk and the rest were severely injured. 2,335 military personnel were killed with 1,117 from the USS Arizona. Added to this were 68 civilians, making a total of 2,403 deaths. It was one of the most tragic days in U.S. history. The United States of America declared war on Japan the very next day and this led the United States into formal entry into World War II. The war lasted for almost four years resulting in the victory of the allies - America, Great Britain and Russia.
Today marks the 79th anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attack. It brings both sorrow and respect to me in remembrance of the fallen soldiers. I feel sorry for those 2,335 soldiers who sacrificed their lives to protect our country. They made the world a much better and peaceful place today. I feel sad for the families who lost their beloved ones. I also feel the pain for the Pearl Harbor base because it was badly attacked and wounded.
Although it has been restored, it still brings us distraught memories of its past. On the other hand, I pay great respect to the brave warriors who gave their lives to protect our country. They are our heroes and I do admire them. Many of the soldiers died young and did not have their lives under the belt. They have risked their lives to exchange peace for us today. In return, it makes me cherish my life abundantly today. I realize freedom or happiness is not simply given, but is a privilege to have. Thus, we shall express our greatest gratitude to the soldiers, our warriors who have fought for our freedom, peace, and happiness today.
On this special day, let’s make it a remembrance of those who have fallen and pay great honor and respect to all soldiers who have dedicated so much to serve our country. Our country wouldn't be where we are today without them. Two words truthfully from the bottom of my heart to all our brave patriots, THANK YOU!
