LETTERS: DEC. 7 IS A SIGNIFICANT DATE IN HISTORY

To the editor:

A significant date in the history of the American 20th century occurred on Dec. 7, 1941: the Japanese surprise attack on the U.S. Fleet at Pearl Harbor, which awakened the American public to the reality of war on two fronts.

I pray Americans will remember this day and its historic meaning. I do not seek to open old wounds, but to remember the sacrifice and heroism of the World War II generation. These men and women, like none before, came together against enormous odds to preserve freedom for Europe and Asia. Out of the despair and the agony, the indomitable spirit of America rose to new heights.

America survived that day of national disgrace. But the memory of Dec. 7, 1941, must remain etched forever in the minds of succeeding generations as the symbol of the price extracted by a lack of alertness. We must remain free and strong enough to preserve America's freedoms, no matter what the future holds.

That is why Dec. 7 demands to be remembered each year. I trust the pain and sacrifice of the past will be recalled for today's young citizens. For by understanding history, perhaps we won't be doomed to repeat it.

BUTCH MILLER, National Commander

American Legion

Woodbridge, Va.