Locals remember news of Pearl Harbor attack

We must never forget the cowardly attack on Pearl Harbor and the sacrifice of our servicemen. I would like to provide a little information about the civilian population in Hawaii. In the early 1960s I worked with a man at the Mare Island Naval Shipyard who had been born and raised in the territory of Hawaii and witnessed the attack. In fear that the Japanese planes would return, some of the shipyard workers refused to return to work after the attack. It was vital to get the base up and running again.

Word was sent out on the local radio station that we were at war with the Japanese and not reporting for work would be an act of treason. It was no idle threat and the problem was solved. I remember where I was on that day 70 years ago — selling newspapers on a street corner in Yuba City.

CLYNE KEENER
Oakdale