Washington, DC – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) today released the following statement in honor of the attack on Pearl Harbor, which occurred December 7, 1941. 

“The day that will ‘live in infamy’ occurred 81 years ago. The surprise attack by Japan killed 2,403 Americans and destroyed or severely damaged 19 ships. We went on to win the war, but the loss of life was horrific. The lessons from Pearl Harbor remain valid today. A strong military deters aggression and perceived weakness invites a bully. We underestimated our adversary. The Japanese perfected the use aircraft carriers and torpedo technology that enabled them to be used in the shallow waters of Pearl Harbor in ways we did not anticipate.

 “We cannot assume other nations think or operate the same we do. There were many studies that showed the United States would prevail in any war with Japan, and we thought the Japanese leadership would not provoke a disaster on themselves. However, the Japanese thought they had no recourse but to attack America on that infamous day in 1941. They thought they could capitalize on our weaknesses. 

 “Let us not forget the lessons of Pearl Harbor and that deterring war is better than fighting one. Let us remember that ‘peace through strength’ remains true today and pay tribute to those who gave their all for our country.”

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