HONOLULU, Nov. 11, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- It's been nearly 75 years since the attack on Pearl Harbor, a pivotal event for our country and the world. Truly a "day which will live in infamy," the attack triggered our resolve as a nation, our can-do attitude and resourcefulness, and an unmatched commitment to the defense of freedom – these are the values and character that define our country.
How do we remember Pearl Harbor, the attack, our response, and the impact that followed?
Under the leadership of Robert A. Lutz, retired Vice Chairman, General Motors, a "modern day arsenal of democracy" is forming. This group of corporate and civic leaders, reminiscent of their predecessors, is determined to call upon all Americans, seeking their investment in an effort to complete the restoration of the hallowed grounds, hangars and control tower located on Ford Island, Pearl Harbor, forever opening these historic structures to the public as part of Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor.
Together, these treasures, part of a National Historic Landmark site, not only share a story of American resilience, but also impart a deep understanding and commitment to pass on the values and character of our "Greatest Generation." But the passage of time has taken its toll on these buildings. Although corrosion and site deterioration from years of deferred maintenance threaten, it is clear that standing on this battlefield stirs the heart. As the 75th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor approaches, the task at hand becomes more pressing.
More than 1.5 million people have visited the site since Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor opened its doors in 2006. Occupying the historic hangars that still carry the scars and bullet holes of that "Day of Infamy", the museum provides an educational and emotional experience to nearly a quarter million visitors each year. The impact on youth is even more dramatic. Understanding history, both the events and the impact generated, inspires reverence and an emotional commitment to seek peaceful solutions to conflict. History teaches young people, the leaders of our future, that understanding our past empowers choices that negate fateful outcomes.
Federal support helped stabilize the iconic Ford Island Control Tower in 2012, with 53 tons of steel replaced to ensure the structural integrity of this historic building. But with the interior gutted, the elevator idle in its shaft awaiting repair, and utilities to the structure cut, the public cannot enter. "To be honest, when I saw a photo of the interior of the Tower and the historic runway that stretches the length of Ford Island, completely overgrown with weeds, I felt ashamed, as a retired United States Marine, and as an American," commented Bob Lutz. "That image convinced me to do something to ensure that this site forever tells the story of Pearl Harbor. As an old marine once said, if it is to be, it is up to me!"
It's a job for all of us! To get involved, to join this modern arsenal for democracy, visit us online at www.pacificaviationmuseum.org
For more information please Contact Elissa Lines, 808-445-9069, [email protected]
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SOURCE Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor
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