Dear friends,

Today, we reflect on the 69th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. I reflect with new context because I was blessed to visit the U.S.S. Arizona Memorial in Hawaii this year.

While visiting the memorial, I was overcome with emotion as I thought about that day and the surprise attack that changed America’s course. The Japanese military attacked our soldiers without warning, without provocation. The United States lost 2,402 soldiers and the attack injured another 1,282.

The most touching part of my visit was my conversation with a tour guide who was at Pearl Harbor that day. He still remembered the smell of the bombs and the fuel, the fires, and the friends he lost. His eyes still welled up as he thought about that day and my eyes did, too.

I pray for the members of our military today, both the veterans and those currently serving. Their dedication for our country is one of our greatest blessings. I pray for their families and children, especially as they are apart from their loved ones this holiday season.

Sincerely,

Sue Everhart

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