By Trinity Hassan
Eighty-two years ago, military members and civilians were ambushed on “a date which will live in infamy.” The events of Pearl Harbor played a pivotal role in the entrance of the United States into World War II which deeply affected the lives of Americans and service members.
For military members and civilians alike, it is important to acknowledge the bravery and sacrifice of those who serve. As time flies, some things are easily taken for granted. As Senator Bennett reflects on his youth, he mentions that after the Vietnam War, his family became sponsors for a family from Vietnam. One night while at a football game, a canon was fired signifying a touchdown for the home team. While cheers roared in the stadium, the canons struck fear into the hearts of the refugee family, becoming “one of the most poignant moments” of Bennett’s life and leaving a long-term impact on how Bennett views freedom and blessings as an American.
“I think the most important word in the dictionary is remember,” Bennett explains. The impact that remembering the country’s history brings significance to remembering those involved.
10 years ago, the Wesley Bolin Plaza featured official memorials for every other war that the U.S. was involved in, except for World War II. Although the plaza had an anchor from the USS Arizona and a masthead, the memorial was missing something. Word of a historic USS Arizona gun barrel got to Bennett, serving as secretary of state at the time. After learning from a friend at the House of Representatives that the barrel was soon to be surplus, Bennett got to work.
“It was one of, if not the, most rewarding things I’ve ever done in public service.” Senator Ken Bennett said regarding the establishment of the World War II memorial at the Arizona State Capitol.
Although the request to bring the historic barrel to Arizona was met with hesitation, Bennett secured gun barrels from both the USS Arizona and USS Missouri, symbolizing the United States’ entrance into the war and the surrender of the Empire of Japan.
The interest in establishing the memorial and bringing the barrels to Arizona was not Bennett’s alone. “We didn’t have to create the interest, we just had to tell people what we were doing.” $800,000 was raised in donations, and crane and railroad transportation companies provided services for free, truly demonstrating the deep respect communities have for service members.
Even now, 82 years later, commemorating Pearl Harbor Day not only honors those who served and defended the nation but shows remembrance and respect for the service and sacrifice that grants freedom.