On December 7, 1941, more than 2,390 Americans lost their lives when Japanese bombers launched a surprise attack on the U.S. military base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. All eight U.S. battleships stationed at Pearl Harbor during the attack were sunk, although all but two — the ARIZONA and OKLAHOMA - later returned to active duty. In addition, nearly 20 American Navy vessels and about 300 aircraft were damaged or destroyed.
The attack — famously described by President Franklin D. Roosevelt as a "date which will live in infamy" — propelled America into World War II, a conflict which claimed the lives of some 400,000 U.S. soldiers. On the 76th anniversary of the history-altering day, you can honor their sacrifice by taking time this week to support the sea services in one of the ways listed below.
ASK CONGRESS TO SUPPORT THE JONES ACT
Attacks on the Jones Act hurt national security by damaging American shipping, adding burdens to those protecting homeland security, and undermining commerce. With new members of Congress taking office, we ask you to take a minute to contact your incoming and incumbent Members of Congress and let them know you support the Jones Act.
PRESERVE AN HISTORIC NAVAL CEMETARY
The Mare Island Naval Cemetery (MINC) is the oldest military cemetery on the west coast. It is the final resting place for 996 of our country's heroes, including three Congressional Medal of Honor recipients and veterans of the War of 1812. However, the cemetery has fallen into an unacceptable state of disrepair since being managed by the cash-strapped city of Vallejo, CA after the Mare Island Naval Shipyard closed in 1996. Our American veterans buried in the oldest military cemetery on our west coast deserve as much respect as our veterans buried in other national cemeteries. Please ask your Senator to support legislation to provide for the maintenance, preservation and operation of this historic site.
VOLUNTEER FOR A NEW YORK COUNCIL COMMITTEE
You recently received a survey from us asking about your interest in taking an active role in Council operations in 2020. If you have not yet replied, please take a few moments today to let us know how you would like to help. Committee chairs will be reaching out in January once they begin their 2021 term.