America marks a somber anniversary today ­ the 60th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. The attack, which until Sept. 11, 2001, was the deadliest on American soil, was a turning point in our nation’s history and in our world’s history.

More than 2,400 Americans were killed in the sneak attack; dozens of ships were damaged or destroyed; five battleships sank.

And, suddenly, the reality of the war hit home in places like Pike County, Alabama.

The shocking news of the attack riveted a nation and steeled its resolved, much like the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks did earlier this year.

Listening to their stories, residents recall their feelings of shock, of fear, of concern in the days and weeks following Dec. 7, 1941. And they recall the sense that one day had altered the course of their lives forever.

Many of them will say that Sept. 11, 2001, evoked those same feelings … and that same sense of historical significance.

We have much to learn from the Greatest Generation ­ those men and women for whom Pearl Harbor marked a milestone in their lives.

We have much to learn from their patriotism, from their spirit, from their bravery and from their willingness to persevere.

And, today, we have much to be thankful for in the wake of the day that continues to "live infamy."  

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