GOVERNOR COMMEMORATES 66TH ANNIVERSARY OF PEARL HARBOR ATTACK, DEDICATES USS OKLAHOMA MEMORIAL

Governor Lingle joined community, government and military leaders at a ceremony to remember those who lost their lives in the December 7, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor.

The Governor laid a wreath on behalf of the State of Hawai`i and honored members of America's 'greatest generation' for their service, sacrifice and commitment to freedom.

"From that terrible day of infamy, our country and the American people showed amazing resolve and fortitude," said Governor Lingle. "We must continue to draw inspiration from that tradition."

Governor Lingle also paid tribute to the brave souls lost that December morning.

"It is our obligation to never forget their sacrifice and that includes taking active steps to remember," she said.

The Governor demonstrates this commitment through her work as a co-chair of the Pearl Harbor Memorial Fund, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the memory of these heroes by building a new museum and visitor center for the USS Arizona Memorial.

Governor Lingle thanked Pearl Harbor survivors for their willingness to share their stories about that fateful day, and for keeping history alive.

"Survivors are national treasures, an irreplaceable link to the past and a pivotal point in modern history," she said.

On December 7, Governor Lingle also participated in the dedication of the USS Oklahoma Memorial at Pearl Harbor.  The memorial pays tribute to the 429 sailors who lost lives aboard the ship - second in casualties only to the USS Arizona.

"Visitors worldwide come to learn about Pearl Harbor, and now they can learn about the USS Oklahoma and her crew," Governor Lingle said.  "The memorial will also teach future generations about their sacrifice and this important part of our past."

• Read a proclamation from Governor Lingle and Lt. Governor Aiona, proclaiming December 7 as Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day.