DES MOINES – IDP Chair Dr. Andy McGuire issued the following statement on the 75th anniversary of the attacks on Pearl Harbor:

“Seventy-five years ago today, over two thousand military personnel lost their lives during the attacks on Pearl Harbor. The attacks prompted the beginning of United States involvement in World War II, a war that would claim the lives of hundreds of thousands of our brave men and women. Today is an opportunity to reflect on the lives of those who fought and died in a war against tyranny and injustice.

“December 7, 1941 was one of the darkest days in our nation’s history. Let today serve as a reminder that we continue to live in a fragile, global environment that demands careful diplomacy and strategic communication with our allies. It is the responsibility of our leaders to command our military with poise and careful decision making to ensure the safety of civilians and members of our military.”