75th anniversary
Ceremony remembers attack on Pearl Harbor
ALPENA — On Wednesday the Alpena Marine Corps League marked the 75 anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor that propelled the United States to enter into World War II.
To pay tribute to the over 2,400 American servicemen who lost their lives during the Pearl Harbor attack, which occurred Dec. 7, 1941, several local veterans groups assembled behind the Alpena Post Office for a ceremony.
George Stevens, the Alpena County director of Veterans Affairs, spoke to not only the past but to the present struggles the nation faces.
“This day of remembrance is a time to look back and recount their sacrifice for the cause of freedom,” he said. “But we must also look forward and ask for grace and guidance as we face terrorist bent on our destruction. Let us also look inward to find the character and courage to stand for life and liberty.”
Marine Corps League #1327 laid a wreath into the Thunder Bay River, which was followed by the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #2496 Honor Guard performing a rifle salute.
The rifle salute was followed by a rendition of “Taps” by Richard Raquepaw and the ringing of the bell.
Stevens said the greatest generation is a fascinating period in our history and still plays a large role.
“It’s the greatest generation because they were fighting for freedom in two different locations,” he said. “So it was very fascinating to see President Obama and the Japanese Prime Minister meeting in Pearl Harbor after Obama apologized for Hiroshima. But I was thinking the Japanese Prime Minister should apologize for this attack.”
In total the ceremony brought 10 different veterans groups and nearly 20 members of the public to pay tribute.
Rosinski said local veteran groups have been hosting this memorial for several years now. He said while the weather may dictate where the event is held, the meaning stays the same.
“We’re here to remember the fallen heroes,” he said.
Tyler Winowiecki can be reached via email at twinowiecki@thealpenanews.com or by phone at 358-5688. Follow Tyler on Twitter tw_alpenanews. Read his blog, Just a Thought … at www.thealpenanews.com.