American Legion National Commander Dan K. Wiley speaks on the 84th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor.
As one of the main speakers kicking off the National Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade in Honolulu Sunday, American Legion National Commander Dan K. Wiley provided historical perspective of the attack.
“President Roosevelt correctly labelled December 7, 1941, as a ‘day of infamy.’ But that was only part of it,” Wiley said. “Today, we also remember the response to that attack as a day or bravery and unity.”
Wiley mentioned the 15 Medals of Honor awarded for actions taken that day, 53 Silver Stars, four Navy and Marine Corps Medals, “and untold thousands of other actions of valor that remain unrecognized.”
Hundreds attended the pre-parade gathering at Oahu’s Ainahau Triangle, one of many events commemorating the 84th anniversary of the attack which led to America’s entry into World War II.
While the American public was mostly unified during the war, Wiley pointed out that it was a different case prior to the attack. “In the years and months leading up to America’s entry into the war, there was no consensus on what U.S. policy should be,” he said. “A number of Americans, perhaps recalling the pain of the first world war, advocated for isolationism. Some influential leaders were even sympathetic to our future adversaries. Yet, Pearl Harbor instantly unified America’s resolve. Aggressive tyrannies would not stand.”
Wiley’s visit to the Department of Hawaii continues until Dec. 11. Wiley, American Legion National Auxiliary President Pam Ray and Sons of The American Legion National Commander Bill Clancy had several troop visits on their schedule, along with briefings by military and VA officials.
The visit to the Aloha state, follows an Indo-Pacific tour, which included military and diplomatic visits to Taiwan, Japan and Guam.
Wiley emphasized the importance of Pearl Harbor commemorations during the pre-parade ceremony, which included several World War II veterans and Rosie the Riveters on stage.
“In The American Legion Constitution, we promise to ‘preserve the memories and incidents of our associations in all wars,’” Wiley said. “Ninety-nine percent of World War II veterans are no longer with us. It is now our solemn obligation to ensure that their sacrifices and service are never forgotten.”
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