National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day in Texas

The surprise attack on Pearl Harbor killed more than 2,400 Americans. It left more than 1,000 wounded and nearly wiped out an entire fleet. It was designed to cripple the U.S. Navy before war had even started. Instead, it galvanized the fighting spirit of the American public, creating a foe more formidable than Japanese leadership ever anticipated.

While the morning of December 7, 1941, does indeed live on as a "Day of Infamy," the stories of bravery and selflessness in the face of unprecedented disaster became inspiration for a generation that found itself suddenly, horribly at war. Since then, the irrepressible courage of the men and women at Pearl Harbor that fateful morning has passed into legend, and will continue to inspire generations to come.

Each December, National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day is recognized across the country. It is a time of reflection and remembrance. All Americans should come together to honor the bravery and sacrifice that occurred at Pearl Harbor.

At this time, I encourage my fellow Texans to remember with deep reverence all that Pearl Harbor represents to us. As Americans, we appreciate the service and sacrifice of our veterans, and we will carry their memory in our hearts, minds and souls.

Therefore, I, Rick Perry, Governor of Texas, do hereby proclaim December 7, 2011, to be

National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day in Texas,

and urge the appropriate recognition whereof.

In official recognition whereof, I hereby affix my signature this the 28th day of November, 2011.

RICK PERRY
GOVERNOR OF TEXAS