Arizona

December 7th 1941. 69 years ago the United States Pacific Fleet was attacked in Pearl Harbor on the Island of Oahu in Hawaii. I first visited Pearl Harbor as an 11 year old boy back in 1985 with mom, dad and Jim. I don't know that I completely understood everything on that first visit. I do clearly remember going out to the memorial and walking around. I remember seeing the oil from the ship sitting on the surface of the water. It seems that after we moved to Hawaii we made a visit to Pearl Harbor every year on or about Pearl Harbor Day. I may be wrong on that detail but I like to remember it that way. I am grateful for those visits. I remember touring a battleship (I think it was a battleship anyway)on one of those trips. Simply an amazing craft. Well, 25 years after my first visit I still take time on December the 7th to remember Pearl Harbor, the USS Arizona and the activities of this day back in 1941. I am grateful for the brave men and women who not only served then but for all who serve our country and fight to protect our freedoms today.

When I think about battles and wars I am drawn to those that I read most about, those found in the Book of Mormon with Captain Moroni leading the armies of the Nephites. I love these stories and the lessons that we are taught. The raising of the title of liberty, the 2000 stripling warriors and the miraculous protection that they enjoyed, and cleansing the inner vessel. One story that always stands out to me is the fortifications of the cities that Captain Moroni caused to be completed during times when there was not a battle taking place. What am I doing to fortify my life, to protect my family from the forces of evil? How am I staying vigilant when all seems calm? There is no time to let down our guard. I look at gospel basics as our daily safeguards. Reading scriptures, praying, regular Family Home Evening, Temple Attendance, serving others all help to fortify our spirits and our families. One of my favorite scriptures from the Doctrine and Covenants is Pray always that ye may come off conqueror, yea that ye may conquer Satan and escape the hands of the servants of Satan that do uphold his work. I know the Lord blesses us as we strive to fortify our families.