National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day (also referred to as Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day or Pearl Harbor Day) is observed annually in the United States today, Dec. 7, to remember and honor the 2,403 Americans who were killed in the Japanese surprise attack on Pearl Harbor in Hawaii on Dec. 7, 1941, which led to the United States declaring war on Japan the next day and thus, entering World War 11.
In 1994, Congress designated Dec. 7 of each year as National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. The joint resolution was signed by President Bill Clinton on Aug. 23, 1994. On Nov. 29, Clinton issued a proclamation declaring Dec. 7, 1994 the first National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day.
On Pearl Harbor Day, the American flag should be flown at half-staff until sunset to honor those who died as a result of the attack on U.S. military forces in Hawaii. Pearl Harbor Day is not a federal holiday – government offices, schools and businesses do not close.
Students from Queen Creek's Desert Mountain Elementary received a special visit this National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day from local World Ward II veteran and Pearl Harbor survivor, Jack Holder.
A distinguished World War II veteran and one of the few remaining Pearl Harbor survivors, Holder was a United States Navy flight engineer. He flew well over 100 missions, including the infamous 1942 Battle of Midway, Guadalcanal, the English Channel and the Bay of Biscay on the west coast of France.
When he received an honorable discharge in 1948, Holder took with him 36 medals and commendations which include two distinguished flying cross.
Holder told students about his experience in the Navy and the Great Depression. Students had a chance to ask him questions after he told his story.
"I am amazed by how much work and sacrifice Jack put into protecting our country and other people," said student Mack Larson. "He must have been so scared to go through Pearl Harbor and Midway, but he did that because he believes in what our country stands for and for freedom. I am so thankful for Jack and all of the people that are serving our country."
Mya Mendoza, another Desert Mountain student, mentioned how impactful Holder's stories were on her.
"Knowing about his history inspires me because I, myself, have always wanted to go to the military," she said. "I'm also happy he went out and fought for our country."
Holder is set to celebrate his 100th birthday on Dec. 13. You can send him a birthday card at: Jack Holder, C/O Darlene Tryon, PO Box 11094, Chandler, Arizona 85248.
