Alief ISD: Important Message from the Superintendent

I realize we are all in the midst of a pandemic in the most challenging school year known to man, but I wanted to ask all of us to take a minute and reflect on the importance of us remembering historical events from our nation’s great history and the sacrifices made by those who laid the foundation of our nation. Today is Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, a special day in our nation as December 7th marks the 79th anniversary on the attack on Pearl Harbor.

As President Roosevelt said, December 7th, 1941, “is a date that will live in infamy”. I would encourage each of us to be reminded of his words.

More than 2,000 Americans lost their lives and more than 1,100 were wounded during the Japanese attack on the United States naval base at Pearl Harbor. The Pacific Fleet of the U.S. Navy suffered tremendous losses that day, as almost two dozen ships were sunk or severely damaged, including every battleship in the fleet. Almost 300 aircraft were destroyed or damaged during the attack. Fortunately, six of the battleships were repaired and were able to return to service in the war.

The United States government, led by President Roosevelt, declared war on Japan on December 8th, 1941. Just days later, on December 11th, Japan’s allies – Germany and Italy – declared war on the United States. The United States declared war on Germany and Italy the same day and World War II officially began.

So, as we go about our responsibilities for Alief students, whether in-person or virtual, throughout today, please remember what today’s anniversary of the bombing of Pearl Harbor means to our nation. Let us all give thanks to those members of “The Greatest Generation” who gave all in the name of freedom during World War II, and those men and women, including many of our former students, who are currently serving in our military.