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CNATTU Keesler holds Pearl Harbor remembrance ceremony

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  • By Seaman Agazit Ocbazgi
  • Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training Unit Keesler Public Affairs
KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. --  Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training Unit Keesler commemorated the 75th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor during a remembrance ceremony, Dec. 7.

Sponsored by the CNATTU Keesler First Class Petty Officer Association, the ceremony was held outside of Allee Hall, with nearly 100 U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force personnel in attendance.

"It's an honor and a pleasure to be here with you all today as we come together in remembrance of the 75th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor," said Cmdr. Timothy Knapp, CNATTU Keesler commanding officer. "Our grandparents remember exactly where they were and what they were doing on that fateful day."

The ceremony included remarks from Knapp, readings depicting the story of the attack on Pearl Harbor, a bell ceremony and a moment of silence for the more than 2,400 Americans killed during the early morning attack 75 years ago.

Petty Officer 1st Class Nicolas Soetaert summarized the events leading to the attack, and Petty Officer 1st Class Avery Ulmer provided details of the hourlong battle.

"Six Japanese carriers launched a first wave of 181 planes composed of torpedo bombers, dive bombers, horizontal bombers, and fighters," Ulmer said. "More than 2,000 Soldiers and Sailors died in the attack, which prompted then-President Franklin D. Roosevelt to call Dec. 7, 1941, 'a date which will live in infamy.'"

The ceremony also included a tribute to the service members and civilians who died during the attack. Petty Officer 1st Class John Abraham read the names of each ship lost during the battle, while Petty Officer 1st Class James Rogers struck a bell after each name.

"Twenty-one ships of the U.S. Pacific Fleet were sunk or damaged," said Abraham, before requesting a moment of silence from the crowd.

Petty Officer 1st Class Travis Muth provided a final reading before Knapp's closing remarks, stressing how the attack united the nation and ultimately translated into a commitment to victory in World War II.

Knapp then closed the ceremony, addressing the crowd of largely junior service members about the importance of ensuring the Navy's values and history is remembered and respected.

"Our history is important, and your attendance here today is a testament to our naval heritage being carried forward to the next generation," said Knapp.
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