Pearl Harbor: Remembering the fallen 75 years later

Photo By Staff Sgt. Vernon Fowler | George Kondas, a Pearl Harbor survivor, pauses for a photo during the Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day ceremony at Veterans Memorial Park in Tampa, Fla., Dec. 7, 2016. Kondas is 95 years old and attended the ceremony for his second consecutive year. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Vernon L. Fowler Jr.)  

TAMPA, FL, UNITED STATES

12.07.2016

Story by Senior Airman Vernon Fowler 

6th Air Refueling Wing

Seventy-five years later, the U.S. continues to honor those who lost their lives that fateful day on what is now known as National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day.

Specifically, service members, veterans, retirees and civilians gathered at Veterans Memorial Park in Tampa, Florida, to commemorate the 75th anniversary with a ceremony themed “We Remember the Fallen” on Dec. 7, 2016.

Following the presentation of the colors, national anthem and invocation, attendees observed a Prisoner of War and Missing in Action presentation before welcoming the keynote speaker to the podium.

Retired Army Maj. Gen. James L. Dozier addressed the audience and emphasized that strength can come out of tragedy.

“Pearl Harbor was a wake-up call for our nation,” said Dozier. “Let’s not just remember it, but also the lessons that it has taught us.

“When our country leads, great things happen. When we remain strong, we can prevent war.”

Throughout the ceremony, an honored guest calmly sat in view of those in attendance. George Kondas, a Pearl Harbor survivor and Navy lineman first class at the time, attended what would be his second consecutive Pearl Harbor ceremony at Veterans Memorial Park.

“It’s an honor to be invited,” said Kondas.

Attendees observed a 75th anniversary tribute to MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, a flag presentation and memorial wreath ceremony before the conclusion of the event. As the ceremony adjourned, visitors flocked to speak with Kondas.

He reminisced about his experience that day 75 years ago, and shared why continuing to honor those who lost their lives is important.

“Even though I'm 95 years old, I can still remember every detail of the attack," said Kondas. “It’s our effort to never forget.

“As long as anybody lives we should remember this day.”

• Date Taken: 12.07.2016
• Date Posted: 12.09.2016 09:31
• Story ID: 216829
• Location: TAMPA, FL, US