On Saturday, December 7^th, Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) provided remarks at the 72^nd Annual Pearl Harbor Commemoration in Laredo, Texas. The event is dedicated to honor World War II veterans for their service and valor.

A copy of his remarks may be found below

·      “But always will our whole nation remember the character of the onslaught against us. No matter how long it may take us to overcome this premeditated invasion, the American people in their righteous might will win through to absolute victory” – President Franklin Delano Roosevelt on the day after attack, 12/08/1941

·      Today we remember a day that, as President Franklin Delano Roosevelt famously said, will forever live in infamy

·      72 years ago today, the United States suffered a massive and unprovoked attack on our own soil

·      2,400 Americans were killed, over 1,200 were wounded, and188 warships were destroyed

·      Today, we commemorate a day that will never be forgotten…

·      …and pay tribute to the families who lost a loved one 72 years ago

·      Here in Laredo, we are proud to have played a part in the heroic actions of those were present at Pearl Harbor

·      Over 2,000 men and women from Laredo served our country during World War II – only 50-70 remain with us today   

·      Laredoans served in all parts of the war effort, in bombs, tanks, ships, on the ground, and in leadership positions

·      200 were killed in action and 50 percent came home wounded

·      On the day of the Pearl Harbor attack, 4 native Laredoans were present on the ground – their heroic actions are an honor to the City and today we remember them

·      In today’s post-9/11 world, we are unfortunately all too familiar with unexpected attacks and their tragic consequences

·      But like on 9/11, the attack on Pearl Harbor showed the true nature of the American spirit and the Laredo spirit – indomitable

·      Like the troops who serve in Iraq or Afghanistan, the firefighters and policemen who rushed into the Towers on 9/11, our World War II veterans demonstrated courage and resolve in defending their fellow countrymen

·      There are only a few thousand Pearl Harbor survivors still alive – we continue to lose members of the Greatest Generation

·      However, we will never forget the example they set for us of heroism, of bravery, and of selfless service to America

·      Thank you to our veterans and God Bless