December 7, 1941: A day that lives in infamy in the collective conscience of the United States and indeed, the world.

As we honor the 2,403 service members and civilians who lost their lives in the unprovoked attack on Pearl Harbor — an attack that catapulted the nation into the largest conflict in our history — we also recall how our country and our Navy responded. Three million Navy Reserve Sailors served during World War II, representing 80 percent of the Navy over the course of that conflict.

On this day, we remember our brothers and sisters who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our nation and all those who bravely answered the call, exemplifying courage under fire and toughness under the most challenging conditions.

On this 79th anniversary, please join me in pausing to remember and honor their example and sacrifice.