State Representative Chris Miller (il) | Representative Chris Miller (R) 101st District
State Representative Chris Miller (il) | Representative Chris Miller (R) 101st District
On December 7, 1941, the United States was forever changed by a devastating attack on the naval base at Pearl Harbor. President Franklin Roosevelt's words, "The Date That Will Live in Infamy," echoed the sentiment of a nation in shock and mourning. Today, on Pearl Harbor Day, we remember the courageous soldiers who lost their lives defending our country.
The attack on Pearl Harbor was a carefully planned and executed assault by the Empire of Japan. The surprise attack on that early Sunday morning resulted in the loss of 2,403 U.S. service personnel, including 50 servicemen from Illinois. Among the casualties were also 68 civilians. The Japanese strike force was massive, consisting of 353 aircraft and a fleet of ships. The attack destroyed or damaged numerous U.S. Navy ships, including the battleship USS Arizona, which remains a solemn reminder of the sacrifice made by its crew.
"Today we honor all the fearless soldiers as we remember the Pearl Harbor attack that changed the world on Dec. 7th in 1941," said Rep. Miller. "We will never forget the sacrifices made by our patriots to protect our country and our freedoms."
The impact of the Pearl Harbor attack extended far beyond the loss of lives and ships. It thrust the United States into the heart of World War II and transformed daily life for millions of Americans. Rationing became a necessity, with items such as rubber, gasoline, and other supplies being limited to ensure an adequate supply for the Army and Navy. The war would continue for several years, and by its end, 416,800 American service members would have lost their lives.
Most Americans had hoped to avoid direct involvement in the war raging in Europe, but Pearl Harbor changed everything. With the approval of all but one member of Congress, President Roosevelt declared war on Japan. Three days later, war was also declared against Germany and Italy. The United States became fully engaged in the Allied cause against the Axis powers. The response was swift, with 134,000 Americans enlisting in the military just thirty days after the attack.
Among the servicemen from Illinois who perished at Pearl Harbor were Lt. John Dains, William Arbuckle, Captain Thomas Kirkpatrick, Edward Clapp, Jason and Bernard Conlin, Virgil Rayhel, and Navy Fireman First Class Robert Harr. Their names and the names of other fallen heroes are etched in history, forever remembered for their bravery and sacrifice.
In recent years, the remains of several deceased servicemen previously unidentified have been identified and returned home to Illinois for burial. They include Michael Glajdik, U.S. Navy Machinist's Mate 1st Class Keith Tipsword, Herbert Jacobson, and Navy Fireman 1st Class George Price. These solemn homecomings serve as a reminder that the memory of those lost at Pearl Harbor lives on.
On this Pearl Harbor Day, let us take a moment to honor the fearless soldiers who selflessly gave their lives in defense of our country. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten, and their legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
To find out more, go to this link: https://repcmiller.com/2023/12/07/on-pearl-harbor-day-we-honor-our-fearless-soldiers/
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