Dec. 7, 1941: 80 years later, it's still a defining date for America

The seventh day of December is a date that still brings pause.

For some, it requires a reminder or thinking about. But it's one of those significant dates that rings a bell.

Jan. 28. The Challenger explosion.

April 4. The King assassination.

Sept. 11. The World Trade Center attack.

Like Nov. 22. The Kennedy assassination.

Until 20 years ago, Dec. 7 likely was a date that stood out in American history second to July 4.

Of course, it's the Sunday in 1941 when the Japanese attacked our naval base at Pearl Harbor on the island of Oahu, Hawaii.

The surprise attack early in the morning launched us into World War II, first into the Pacific campaign.

Adding the war in Europe, the United States was challenged as never before on a global scale. It took a nation working as one to lead the way in winning wars in distant parts of the glob.

When these people were called "the greatest generation," no one argued. They showed the spirit, teamwork, ingenuity and sacrifice that is required to keep us free, and other nations.

The list of survivors has dwindled to the point that this year's milestone observance could be the last before history completely takes over.

Pearl remains an important date, so much so that the terrorist attacks 20 years ago were compared to that day. The attacks on New York City and Washington pulled us into a long war made more difficult by fighting an enemy without borders.

We became divided as a nation and in our efforts as time passed.

Looking back 80 years, we see what a concerted, unified effort can bring.

Those who perished that day and in the years that followed forever are honored.

This article originally appeared on Abilene Reporter-News: Dec. 7, 1941: 80 years later, it's still a defining date for America