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Highlands Today

Community Remembers Pearl Harbor Attack

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By BILL RETTEW JR.

Highlands Today

Published: December 8, 2008

SEBRING - Dec. 7, 1941 was a day not easily forgotten as more than four dozen county county residents gathered Sunday for Pearl Harbor Remembrance at the Medal of Honor Park.

Several speakers talked about the surprise Japanese attack on what later became the 50th state, and the consequences of the moment that catapulted the United States into World War II.

A U.S. Navy Bell Toll Ceremony included Joseph Dionne, Highlands County Veterans Services Officer; and Betsy Waddell, president of the Veterans Council of Highlands County.

Each time Waddell struck a golden bell, Dionne named one of eight virtues to honor the American heroes in Hawaii, and all other soldiers before and since then, for excellence, integrity, service before self, honor, perseverance, courage, strength and dedication.

The bell solemnly tolled the ninth and final time for freedom and for those presently soldiering in harm's way.

The Honor Guard of VFW Post 4300 was on hand to present the Colors, perform a rendition of "Taps" and to present a traditional 21-gun salute.

Edgar Stokes was the guest speaker. The former county commissioner talked about both the reliance on aircraft carriers in battle and the completion of the Manhattan Project, as outcomes after the sneak attack by the Japanese.

He also wondered what would have changed if there had been no surprise bombing and the U.S. had stayed neutral during the Second World War.

"What if?" asked Stokes. "It's not a very pretty picture.

"We want to make sure it doesn't happen again."

More than 20,000 veterans call Highlands County their home. Event sponsor, the Veterans Services Office, handles 1,200 to 1,700 contacts a month from veterans, their families and surviving spouses.

The Veterans Advisory Board also hosted the ceremony.

The local event occurred at the same time as the attack 67 years ago. Deacon James McGarry, of St. Catherine's Church, talked about our changed perception.

McGarry said the day was a "lesson to all things to all people" and that we should pray to end all wars.

Shannon Marrero sang the national anthem and God Bless America. She said the anthem has special meaning for her, especially when she sings it for veterans, the people who, she said, the song represents.

The Medal of Honor Park recognizes known soldiers from Florida awarded the Medal of Honor, the nation's highest military recognition. Park benches and monuments in the park were donated by several veterans' organizations.

- By BILL RETTEW JR.

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