At noon on Sunday December 5, 2021, the Cincinnati Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution (CCSAR) joined members of the Chambers Hartman Budde American Legion Post 534, the Hamilton County Sheriffs Pipes & Drums and several other Veterans groups to remember the attack on Pearl Harbor. This will be the 65th Ceremony of the attack on Pearl Harbor which tragically happened 80 years ago on December 7th, 1941.

We honor the 2,403 citizens of the United States who were killed in the Japanese surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. That fateful day, which President Roosevelt stated on national radio would “Live in Infamy” resulted in the United States entering into a two front war with Japan, Germany and Italy – known forever as World War II.

The parade from River Road is short in length, but very long on spirit. Supported by the Drummers and Bagpipers playing the themes of United States military units and solemn ceremony to the awaiting barge provided by the Anderson Ferry. Once the vessel is loaded, it sets out onto the Ohio River where a Bugler on the barge mirrors a Bugler on the shore with a spine-tingling rendition of Taps. Following was a proper military prayer and presentation led by the American Legion Post 534 and a rifle salute. 

Finally, bio-friendly wreaths were placed on to the water accompanied by two Coast Guard buglers playing echo Taps, mimicking the ritual one would see on December 7th at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.

Silence followed, marked only by the straining engine of the tugboat slowly returning the 70 plus attendees back to shore.

The ceremony was a reverent and fitting remembrance for those who fought suffered and even died, so we would remain free. 

God bless America!