With support from the University of Richmond

History News Network

History News Network puts current events into historical perspective. Subscribe to our newsletter for new perspectives on the ways history continues to resonate in the present. Explore our archive of thousands of original op-eds and curated stories from around the web. Join us to learn more about the past, now.

On Pearl Harbor Day, a move to expand Texas memorial

Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day is always a major event in the hometown of World War II Pacific Fleet commander Adm. Chester Nimitz.  [Fredericksburg is 70 miles NNW of San Antonio.]

Thursday, the 65th anniversary of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, is no different.

Veterans will lead a solemn tribute at the National Museum of the Pacific War, where a middle school choir will sing the National Anthem, a Pearl Harbor survivor will address the crowd and a 21-gun salute will echo through downtown before taps is sounded.

But there's a special twist to this year's observance.

Thursday is the long-scheduled competitive sale of $9 million in Texas Historical Commission bonds to expand the museum, the George Bush Gallery and Nimitz Steamboat Hotel so the tragedy of Pearl Harbor and the ensuing Pacific battles won't be forgotten.

The bond sale falling on Pearl Harbor Day is "pure coincidence," said Texas Public Finance Authority Director Kim Edwards. The authority usually convenes the first Thursday of the month, she told the Houston Chronicle.
Read entire article at NYT