Community Corner

Dec. 7 - Pearl Harbor Day

Flags are at half-staff today.

Today is Dec. 7, a day to commemorate the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor, the incident that solidified the United States commitment to World War II.

Hal Cummings is the town attorney for Vernon and a decorated veteran of the Vietnam War era. He frequently reflects on significant observances involving veterans.

Here is his take on the anniversary of Pearl Harbor:

"As more and more of the 'greatest generation' pass on, events of Dec. 7 are really fading from memory. Except for those who lived through that era, Dec. 7 is more of a historical event - but an extremely significant one in our history, along with Valley Forge, Gettysburg, the Ardennes Forest, the Battle of the Bulge, the battle for Hue.

"I guess the best analogy for those who were not alive on Dec. 7, the best comparison is Sept. 11. The date Sept. 11 has much the same feeling for us that Dec. 7th had for our parents. In both cases America was challenged in a way she had never been challenged before."

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy has directed U.S. and Connecticut flags to half-staff on from sunrise to sunset today in recognition of Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day.

“Today we pause to recognize the thousands who lost their lives at Pearl Harbor, and the thousands more who valiantly served our country in World War II,” Malloy said. “The battle at Pearl Harbor reminds us of the tremendous sacrifices our troops and their families make. We are grateful to our military for their defense of this democracy. Our thoughts and prayers are with the men and women currently deployed - we hope for their safe and speedy return.”

Said, Lt. Gov. Nancy Wyman, "More than seven decades have passed since that tragic and historic day, but the incredible heroism and sacrifice of our military men and women then, and in the years that followed, keeps their memory very much alive.

"Just as the attacks on the United States on Sept. 11, 2001 changed the course of our nation in so many ways, all Americans should take a moment to reflect on how the bombing of Pearl Harbor led to an unprecedented commitment to defend our nation’s freedom that should never be forgotten."


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