Today is the anniversary of Pearl Harbor Day, when America was attacked by surprise by the Japanese, bringing us completely into World War 2. A week later, Hitler declared war on America to back up his Axis partners. That day, Churchill said he would get his first night’s sleep in ages, because he knew with America in the war on his side, they would eventually win.
I was in the United States Air Force from 1984 to 1990, active duty until 1989. I worked at Hickam Air Force Base in Hangar 11. I was with the 15th Air Base Wing as an Avionics Guidance Control Systems Specialist. Every day, I saw the markings on the wall from the Japanese attack, and one day, while searching the roof for leaks, found more bomb damage that had to be repaired, along with memorabilia that is now in the museum.
Let us never forget, peace if fleeting, evil is ever present, and our military are the ones who pay the price to keep us free.
I will show you what Hangar 11 looked like then and now:
Hangar 11 then.
Hangar 11 when I worked there. Bullet marks from the strafing. I played basketball on a court there at work, beneath a B-18 hoist and instructions.
Hangar 11 on December 7th after attack.
Hangar 11 today, what it looked like when I worked there is very similar.
Base Entrance
Michael Bradley - Time Traveler 