Ted Poe: “West Virginia, California, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Utah, Maryland, Nevada, Arizona. These were fierce U.S. naval…”

“West Virginia, California, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Utah, Maryland, Nevada, Arizona. These were fierce U.S. naval battleships whose silent guns and hulls became sacred graves in the peaceful Pacific for 2,403 Americans. These sailors on board these battle wagons fought with the courage and heroism of entire legions of warriors when attacked by a fanatical and tyrannical enemy. "December 7, 1941, a date that will live in infamy" were words spoken by President Roosevelt that became forever embedded in the minds of patriots across our land, igniting and launching a Nation into the fiery trenches of battle. Japanese naval commanders were concerned because they said, "What Japan has done was awake a sleeping giant," the United States. Mr. Speaker, those of the greatest generation proved that when invaded, our people will stand up and fight, bringing the thunder of God upon our enemies. Defending freedom and liberty was the battle cry of the sailors and soldiers that died 65 years ago today. Mr. Speaker, we don't always choose war, but we must always choose victory. And that's just the way it is.”