The Recorder – Pausing to remember Pearl Harbor – The Recorder

Published: 12/7/2020 4:29:35 PM

GILL While the pandemic didnt put a stop to the annual Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day ceremony by the French King Bridge, it did lead organizers to limit attendance on Monday.

Dec. 7 marked the 79th anniversary of the Japanese attack on the Pearl Harbor naval base in Hawaii, where 100 military ships were being held. The attack destroyed or damaged 16 ships, killed 2,403 people and injured another 1,178.

The day after the attack on Dec. 8, 1941 the United States declared war on Japan, formally entering World War II. The war was not declared over until Sept. 2, 1945.

Monday marked the 16th year that a memorial ceremony was held at the French King Bridge. It has been organized by Rolling Thunder, a national organization that advocates for prisoners of war, soldiers missing in action and all veterans. The local chapter of the organization is Vermont Chapter 1.

The ceremony was at noon, at the west end of the French King Bridge. Attendance was kept small, and everyone wore masks and kept their distance from one another. Many in the crowd wore symbols and patches from branches of the military.

Were gathered here to share a moment of history, and to remember our World War II veterans and the greatest generation that kept America strong during those years of war, said Jeff Neipp, president of Rolling Thunder Vermont Chapter 1.

A flag was displayed at the ceremony, and a wreath was hung on the gazebo at the end of the bridge. Keeping it short to reduce social contact, the ceremony was only a few minutes long.

The wreath was left at the gazebo for others to visit and pay their respects.

Reach Max Marcus at mmarcus@recorder.com or 413-930-4231.

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The Recorder - Pausing to remember Pearl Harbor - The Recorder