Pearl Harbor Survivors Association
The Pearl Harbor Survivor's Association (PHSA) was an organization dedicated to honoring and preserving the legacy of those who experienced the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. This pivotal event in American history marked the United States' entry into World War II and has since been a focal point for remembrance and education regarding the sacrifices made by military personnel and civilians alike. The association served as a vital resource for survivors and their families, providing support, camaraderie, and a platform for sharing their stories.
One of the significant initiatives undertaken by the PHSA is the establishment of monuments that commemorate the bravery and resilience of those who served during this critical time. A notable example is the monument installed at the Marietta National Cemetery, which stands as a tribute to the survivors and their contributions to the war effort. This project was overseen by Mack Abbott, a dedicated member of the Georgia chapter of the association who played a crucial role in ensuring that the monument accurately reflects the history and significance of the events surrounding Pearl Harbor.
The Marietta National Cemetery, located in North Metro Atlanta, Georgia, is a site of historical importance, housing the remains of many veterans who served in various conflicts, including World War II. The addition of the Pearl Harbor monument enhances the cemetery's role as a place of remembrance and education. It serves not only as a memorial but also as a reminder of the lessons learned from the past, emphasizing the importance of peace and the sacrifices made to achieve it.
The monument itself is designed to evoke reflection and respect. It features inscriptions that honor the courage of the survivors and the memory of those who lost their lives during the attack. The design incorporates elements that symbolize the naval heritage of the United States and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Such monuments play a critical role in educating future generations about the events of Pearl Harbor and the broader context of World War II.
Each brick laid within the grounds of the monument represents a service member from Georgia who was present during the Pearl Harbor attacks and subsequently lost their life, either on that fateful day or in the years that followed. The act of laying these bricks is not merely a construction task; it is a profound gesture of remembrance and respect for those who served, and a task that Mack carried out as long as he was physically able to. The bricks symbolize the enduring legacy of these individuals and their contributions to the nation during a time of great peril.
Following Mack's passing, his son, Paul, continued this legacy by laying his father's brick at the monument. This act not only honors Mack's service but also reinforces the familial bonds that are often intertwined with military service. It serves as a poignant reminder of the personal sacrifices made by families during wartime.
The inclusion of these bricks in the monument is a testament to the collective memory of the community and the importance of recognizing the contributions of each service member. Historical records indicate that approximately 2,403 Americans were killed during the Pearl Harbor attacks, with many more sustaining injuries. The bricks laid in this monument serve as a physical representation of the lives lost and the impact of their sacrifice on both local and national levels.