Jeanne Newby
It was a beautiful Sunday morning, the day was just beginning and citizens around the paradise islands were just waking up. At 7:55 a.m., within a matter of minutes, an attack began that would leave more than 2,000 Americans killed, another thousand wounded. Over half of the Pacific fleet would be destroyed.
That day… the message of the attack on Pearl Harbor being sent over the airwaves shocked the world. That announcement was followed by the announcement that the United States was at war. World War II had begun.
This is a grim reminder of a day in time that changed the lives of many. Young men and women made immediate decisions. They were ready to join the military and defend their country. Their families were proud but worried as their sons and daughters prepared to leave.
A record number of couples united in matrimony. Young lovers were being torn apart, some to never see each other again. The courthouses, churches and wedding parlors were busy as the young couples tied the knot before being pulled apart by war.
A sad time in history, and yet a memorable number of marriages resulting in the beginning of many new families. Many romantic stories hit the movie screen, showing young couples as they served their country and found true love along the way. Movies also depicted soldiers tackling obstacles in their endeavor to make it home to visit their families – and wives struggling to keep their families clothed and fed while their husbands were gone to war. Although entertaining, the movies subject matter hit home as those struggles were real for many families.
In a little town in southwest Missouri known as Webb City, the citizens shared the sad stories and triumphs with each other. The Memorial Board located in Memorial Park displayed the names of local boys who had lost their lives in the war. Word would spread quickly through the town and tears were shed, families consoled. The horrors of the outside world crept into the everyday lives of Webb Citians.
That Memorial Board disappeared from Memorial Park at some point. The names of fallen soldiers were again compiled by students at Webb City Junior High School. And on Nov. 3, 2007, Memorial Park was rededicated, featuring a new, permanent memorial to 77 soldiers from Webb City who have given their lives for our country in all of the wars.
As the number of those who fought in World II diminishes as the veterans age, we are reminded that although time passes on their sacrifices are still important to us. We owe them our freedom. And more sacrifices have been made on our behalf with other wars through the years and in present time.
The awareness of the sacrifices of military personnel is heartwarming. As young children and adults alike walk up to men in uniform and take a moment to thank them for their service tears come to my eyes. As veterans are honored at schools, games, and other activities, it awakens a spirit of love for our country and for those who serve.
No, we don’t like wars. But we do love our freedom, and we cannot have that freedom without those who are willing to fight for us. Thank you to those of the past and those of the present who fight for our country. We appreciate you and honor you.
I was privileged to work for Hallmark during the 50-year anniversary of World War II. We sold a record number of 50th anniversary cards to help celebrate the anniversaries of those couples who married before heading off to war. That puts a happy note on the fact that although many lives were lost in the war, many returned home and lived long, happy lives.
The bombing of Pearl Harbor was 84 years ago.
Fly your flag on December 7th, please.
