WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) released the following statement recognizing the 75^th Anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor:

“On this day seventy-five years ago, a surprise attack on Pearl Harbor shook our country – a tragic event that claimed the lives of 2,403 Americans, wounded many others, and plunged the United States into World War II. Today, we commemorate this solemn occasion and honor the brave men and women who proudly served in defense of our country at Pearl Harbor that day. 

“Our state has a long and proud legacy of military service, and while the events at Pearl Harbor were tragic and resulted in great loss of life, this day now stands as a reminder of the great strength and resilience of our brave servicemembers. Generations since have been inspired by the Americans who answered the call to action during the attack on December 7, 1941.

“Today, we memorialize their patriotism, sense of duty, and bravery in the face of grave peril. Their selfless actions demonstrated the fortitude of the American spirit, and embodied the values evident in Maine’s storied history of military service. We owe them a debt of gratitude that can never be repaid, and their contributions to our nation will never be forgotten. Even many years later, we are humbled by the example of these veterans and their unwavering resilience in defense of our nation.

“Thank you for allowing me to join with you today as we honor those who answered the call at Pearl Harbor seventy-five years ago, including many who called Maine home. We thank them for their sacrifice, and we are proud to call them our own.”