WHEREAS, on December 7, 1941, the Empire of Japan attacked U.S. naval and air forces at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii; and
WHEREAS, more than 2,400 American lives were lost in the sudden attack that Sunday morning, and a major portion of the United States Navy’s Pacific Fleet was destroyed; and
WHEREAS, the attack on Pearl Harbor led to America’s entry into World War II; and
WHEREAS, commemorating the attack on Pearl Harbor instills a greater understanding of, and appreciation for, the selfless service and sacrifice of those who served in the United States Armed Forces during World War II; and
WHEREAS, December 7, 2012, marks the 71st anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor; and
WHEREAS, the State of Florida recognizes and encourages the efforts of the Sons and Daughters of Pearl Harbor Survivors to keep their parents’ legacy, bravery, and heroism in the minds of current and future Floridians; and
WHEREAS, individuals, organizations and communities throughout our Country and throughout the State of Florida will gather on this 71st anniversary to perform acts of charity, to pray, and to comfort and support one another as they honor our nation and the memory of those who lost their lives on December 7, 1941; and
WHEREAS, the Congress of the United States, by Public Law 103-308, as amended, has designated December 7 of each year as National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day.
NOW, THEREFORE, I hereby extend greetings and best wishes to all observing December 7, 2012, as National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. I call upon the people of our great state to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities to remember and honor those who were killed on December 7, 1941, at Pearl Harbor. In addition, I hereby direct the flags of the United States and the State of Florida to be flown at half-staff at all local and state buildings, installations, and grounds throughout the State of Florida on Friday, December 7, 2012. Furthermore, I encourage other governmental entities and interested groups and organizations throughout the State to display the National and State flags at half-staff in observance of National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the State of Florida to be affixed, at Tallahassee, the Capital, this 3rd day of December 2012.
Rick Scott
GOVERNOR
ATTEST:
Ken Detzner
SECRETARY OF STATE